Ávila, a city of cultures and traditions.
Embark on a journey through Ávila, a city of living legends, impressive architecture, and unique flavors.
La Muralla
The Walls of Avila, an undeniable emblem of the city, are one of the most impressive and best-preserved medieval fortified complexes in Europe. This monumental walled enclosure, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985, surrounds the old city of Avila, offering an iconic image that seems to transport the visitor to another era.
Beyond being a prime tourist attraction, the Walls of Avila symbolize the city’s rich historical and cultural wealth and continue to be a silent witness to the history of Spain, from the Reconquest to the present day.
Ávila Cathedral
The Cathedral del Salvador de Ávila, also known as the Ávila Cathedral, is one of the earliest Gothic cathedrals in Spain and is notable for its unique architectural feature of also serving as a fortification. Its construction began in the 11th century in a Romanesque style, evolving over the centuries towards Gothic, which is reflected in its structure and decoration.
The Ávila Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a testimony to the history, art, and spirituality of Spain, attracting visitors and scholars from around the world for its beauty and historical-cultural significance.
Basilica of San Vicente
The Basilica of San Vicente is one of the most emblematic monuments of the city of Ávila, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This jewel of Spanish Romanesque architecture dates back to the 12th century and was erected in honor of the martyr siblings Vicente, Sabina, and Cristeta. According to legend, they were martyred on this very site during the persecution of Christians under the rule of Diocletian.
Real Monasterio de Santo Tomás
The Royal Monastery of Santo Tomás is an architectural complex of great historical, cultural, and artistic importance. It was founded in the 15th century by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile, the Catholic Monarchs, as a Dominican monastery and burial place for their son, Prince John.
It is not only a testimony to Gothic religious architecture in Spain but also a center of great relevance in the country’s political, social, and cultural history, reflecting the close relationship between the Church and the Crown during the period of the Reconquista and the consolidation of the Catholic Monarchs.
Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol
The Church of San Pedro Apóstol in Ávila is a significant religious building located just outside the city’s walls, offering a unique perspective of Ávila’s historical and architectural wealth. Constructed in the Romanesque style, this church is noteworthy for its majestic façade, which faces the Plaza de Santa Teresa, and its impressive tower that commands attention.
The church holds a special place in the city’s history, being one of the first sites visitors see upon entering Ávila from the direction of the train and bus stations. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a landmark that connects the city’s past with its present, inviting both locals and tourists to explore the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Ávila.
Plaza del Mercado Chico
The Plaza del Mercado Chico, located in the heart of the historic center, considered as the main square and ancient Roman forum, is surrounded by medieval-style buildings with hospitality businesses on their ground floors and arcades on three of its sides.
On one side of this rectangular plaza stands the City Hall, and facing it, the Church of San Juan Bautista.
Mirador de Los Cuatro Postes
The Mirador de Los Cuatro Postes, located on the left side of the Adaja River, is another must-see place in Ávila, offering the best views of this walled city.
To reach this religious monument consisting of 4 Doric columns joined by an architrave, you’ll need to cross the wall through the Puerta del Carmen or the Puerta de la Adaja and walk about 500 meters across the river. The first sight you’ll have upon reaching the top of this humilladero with a cross in the center, will take you back to the Middle Ages when populations fortified themselves against their enemies with great walls
Other important palaces in Ávila
The palaces of Ávila stand out for their inner courtyards and austere facades, as many of them served as a second line of fortification behind the walls. Among the most recommended palaces to visit in Ávila are:
- Palacio de los Verdugo: This palace was built in the 16th century and is notable for its austere facade and a stone boar on the left side.
- Palacio de los Superunda: Of Renaissance style, it is the best preserved in the city.
- Palacio de los Dávila: One of the best examples of a fortified medieval palace.
- Palacio de Núñez Vela: A 16th-century Renaissance-style building, notable for its porticoed interior courtyard.
Events and Festivities
In Ávila, there are events in every season of the year. Some festivities are unique to Ávila, while others are celebrated in many places but are experienced in a special way in our city. You can consult the most important events below: the Procession of San Segundo (patron saint of the city), the Pilgrimage of the Virgin of Sonsoles, the Procession of Santa Teresa, Holy Week, and the Medieval Days.
