Tourist Attractions in Avila
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Ávila, chief town of the province of that name in Old Castile and the see of a bishop, is situated on a ridge of high ground, falling steeply down on three sides, in a treeless plateau watered by the Río Adaja. It is enclosed by high hills except on the north, and accordingly has a very harsh climate. Ávila is the highest provincial capital in Spain.
History
Originating as the legendary Roman town of Avela, Ávila alternated between Arab and Christian rule for more than three centuries after the Moorish invasion in 714, but was finally won for the Christians by Alfonso VI in 1085. Thereafter many noble families settled in the town, earning it the name of Ávila de los Caballeros ("Ávila of the Nobles") - as its numerous noble palaces still testify.
History
Originating as the legendary Roman town of Avela, Ávila alternated between Arab and Christian rule for more than three centuries after the Moorish invasion in 714, but was finally won for the Christians by Alfonso VI in 1085. Thereafter many noble families settled in the town, earning it the name of Ávila de los Caballeros ("Ávila of the Nobles") - as its numerous noble palaces still testify.
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Town Walls
The town walls of Avila have been built with the stones of old Roman buildings. The most intriguing features of the walls are the 88 towers which all stand 20 m apart.
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Basílica de San Vicente
This 12th to 14th C church was built on the spot where it is believed San Vicente and his sisters were martyred at in the year 300.
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Cathedral
The most important building in Ávila is the huge, 11th C Cathedral of San Salvador. It is made of granite and the apse is a part of the town walls.
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Monasterio de Santo Tomás
The late 15th C Monasterio de Santo Tomás was used as a summer residence by Catholic Monarchs.
Town Walls, Avila
Townscape, Avila
Town Walls, Avila
Town Walls, Avila
Townscape, Avila
Avila
