Located in the eastern Pyrenees mountains and bordered by Spain and France, it was once isolated but it is currently a prosperous country mainly because of tourism and its status as a tax haven. The people of Andorraare currently listed as having the second highest human life expectancy in the world, at an average of 83 years at birth (2008 est). Andorrais the sixth smallest nation in Europe.

Due to its location in the eastern Pyrenees mountain range, Andorra consists predominantly of rugged mountainsof an average height of 1,996 metres (6,549 ft) with the highest being the Coma Pedrosa at 2,946 metres (9,665 ft). These are dissected by three narrow valleys in a Y shape that combine into one as the main stream, the Valira river, leaves the country for Spain (at Andorra's lowest point of 870 m/2,854 ft). Andorra's surface area is 468 square kilometres (181 sq mi)km.

Festivals and traditions

Throughout the year, Andorran cultural tradition is revived at all the fiestas mayores in the villages of the Principality and also for some commemorative events.

Andorran folklore is represented by the typical dances such as la marratxa (Sant Julià de Lòria), Santa Anna's dance (Escaldes-Engordany), el contrapàs ( Andorrala Vella), and also the sardana which can be danced in all the squares in the Principality, especially at festivals.

Being a country suited to tourism, the Principality hosts international, prestigious meetings throughout the year, demonstrating Andorran cultural life.

Apart from exhibitions dedicated to Andorraand "art without frontiers", the parish comuns organize well-known artistics activities of prestige:
· Jazz concerts, flamenc, spanish pop, local modern music
· Country Music Feast, Bagpipers' Meet, typical dances, dance exhibition
· Street theatre
· The Festival of Classic Music in Ordino(September)
· The Season of Music and Dance in Andorra la Vella (from November to May)