Avila, Town of Stones and Saints

Close to Madrid are many interesting places to visit. Most of them are declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO.

Avila is a nice small city, located in the region of Castile and Leon, a preferred destination for a one day trip from Madrid. The town was founded in 11th century and is so well preserved and maintained that creates a truly magnificent medieval feeling.

We visited the city on the day of its 30 years university as a UNESCO Heritage Site. The most remarkable landscape of the city is the 12 m high city wall.

We are greatly impressed by the walls of Avila. Having traveling around Spain, this wall is the most fascinating thing we have seen.

Gate Alcazar

The best way to enjoy the wall and to feel its dimensions is to walk on the wall. The views above the city and the surroundings are unforgettable.

Truly amazing views.

A view from a distance and the enclosed city area. Here we can feel the size of the wall and its 88 towers.

Right close to the wall is the Cathedral of Avila.

Cathedral of Avila is a notable building because it is built within the wall.

Right in front of the wall is the Basilica San Vicente, another landmark of the medieval city.

Following the maze of small narrow crowded streets we reach the main square of Avila. 

Plaza Mayor of Avila is small but cozy place, surrounded by restaurants. This striking place is still worth to visit.

Nearby is Convento de Santa Teresa, dedicated to one of the most important catholic saints, the Carmelite Nun Santa Teresa.

We stroll along the  the wall and enjoy marvelous views around the wall and over the region during this sunny day.

Plaza de Santa Teresa and the Iglesia of San Pedro

View towards the wall and the cathedral.

We enjoy our trip to Avila and learned more about its history. At every corner the city offers a breathtaking travel to the past.

Avila is definitely a great place to visit, few cities in Europe could offer such antique and great walls and unique atmosphere.