109km (68 miles) NW of Madrid, 67km (42 miles) SW of Segovia
The ancient city of Avila is completely encircled by well-preserved 11th-century walls, which are among the most important medieval relics in Europe. The city has been declared a national landmark, and there is little wonder why. The walls aren't the only attraction, however. Avila has several Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and a fortified cathedral. It is among some 80 cities designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites (six of these are in Spain; the other five are Santiago de Compostela, Segovia, Toledo, Cáceres, and Salamanca).
Avila's spirit and legend are most linked to St. Teresa, born here in 1515. This Carmelite nun, who helped defeat the Reformation and founded a number of convents, experienced visions of the devil and angels piercing her heart with burning-hot lances. She was eventually imprisoned in Toledo. Many legends sprang up after her death, including the belief that a hand severed from her body could perform miracles. Finally, in 1622, she was declared a saint.
Note: Bring warm clothes if you're visiting in the early spring.
Avila Travel Experiences
-
Segovia
This Saturday I went to Segovia with two friends from the Hamilton program, Annie Baja (short) and Ryan. Segovia is only about a 1 hour b... Continue reading »
-
Segovia
For several days now, a cold has been slowly working its way around the passengers on the coach. Sadly it seems to have reached me and I&... Continue reading »
-
Parada en Ávila
Salí de Don Benito por la mañana temprano conduciendo el coche de la comunidad. Tenía que llegar a Valladolid per... Continue reading »
-
I Can See Snow
Once we got in from Porto we headed up to Segovia from Madrid. It is one of the World Heritage Sights of Spain. We hopped on... Continue reading »
-
La Catedral de Segovia...catwalk!
So yesterday I did probably one of the neatest things, and my favorite activity so far. Our history class is taught by a Spanish woman wh... Continue reading »
