Rossell Forge
A restored Catalan forge at La Massana, showing how Andorran iron was worked.
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The Rossell forge worked iron at La Massana from 1842 until 1876 using the Catalan process, in which ore is reduced directly to a bloom rather than through a blast furnace, and it survives with its water wheels, bellows, hearth and the great hammer in place. Andorran iron went out through Spain and France, and forges like this one were the country's industry before tobacco and then tourism took over.
What you actually see
- The Catalan process - direct reduction of ore to a bloom without a blast furnace.
- The great hammer - the water-driven hammer that worked the bloom.
- The water wheels and bellows - the machinery that drove the hearth and the hammer.
- The industrial history - iron as Andorra's industry before tobacco and tourism.
When to go
Year round; visits are guided and run at set times. It closes on some days. Demonstrations happen on particular dates.
Honest expectations
Visits are guided only at set times. The forge is not usually operated; demonstrations are occasional. Guiding is mostly in Catalan and Spanish.
Nearby
La Massana is beside it, and Llorts is up the Ordino valley.
What to pack for Rossell Forge
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.