Surrounded by the French department of Pyrenees-Orientales, Llívia is a Spanish town along the banks of the Segre River. When the Pyrenees was established as the border following the Franco-Spanish War, Llívia wasn’t ceded to France due to its status as the ancient capital of Cerdanya. Today, it’s renowned for its centuries-old castle and a fascinating museum with one of Europe’s best-preserved pharmacies.
Things to do in Llivia
Llívia’s most important religious landmark is the Church of Our Lady of the Angels, which was constructed in the late 16th century on the site of an earlier church. Designed in a predominantly Gothic style, it features a Renaissance portal and is topped by two round, defensive towers. Step inside to see the Catalan-designed organ and the tombs along the nave, together with the 13th-century carving of Sant Crist de Llívia.
Don’t miss the Museu Municipal de Llívia, which houses a small collection of archaeological findings uncovered in the region. A highlight of the museum is the recreated 18th-century pharmacy, complete with its prescription books, medications and records. Traditional medicinal jars known as “albarellos” dot the shelves and once held the apothecaries’ ointments and drugs.
Want to stretch your legs? Follow the short trail that leads to the hilltop Castell de Llívia, which is believed to date back to the 9th century. While only its foundations remain, the site offers magnificent views across the French countryside. Further north is the Balco de Llivia, an elevated platform overlooking the town.
Getting around Llivia
Llívia is around an hour’s drive from Andorra–La Seu d'Urgell Airport, which has regular flights to Madrid. The much larger Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport is two hours away. Regular buses connect to Llívia and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.