Avila

Known as the "City of Saints and Stones", it is the highest city of Spain and possesses the longest city walls. It was recognized by UNESCO in 1985 as part of the World Heritage for Humanity. It is one of the finest remnants of Europe's medieval era.

Geographically Avila is situated at 1130 meters above sea level. It offers an alternative climate to that of the rest of Spain. Often in the summer, Avila can offer some relief from the intense heat of the south of Spain or even Madrid. Avila is much visited by tourists today, yet in the late medieval ages its visitors were pilgrims coming to the church in the centre of the walled city.

Throughout time, Avila has kept its medieval charm, seen in its Gothic cathedral and its fortifications which are the most complete in Spain. Its infamous Romanesque protective walls built in the 12th century. Extending for 2,500 meters (8202 ft.) and encircling the old town, the massive walls are punctuated by ninety, heavily fortified stone towers. In the 11th century Avila was founded to protect the Spanish territories from the Moors.

Avila is the birthplace of Saint Theresa of Jesus who had frequent visions and ecstatic experiences. Nearby the church stands the house where St. Teresa lived. Other famous ancestors include the Great Inquisitor Torquemada, his burial ground can be found there to do this day.

Avila is a city of contrasts, the hustle and bustle of the market contrasts with the quiet repose of the temples and its cloisters Around the Plaza de Santa Teresa are a number of cafes. Inside the city walls is an active shopping district. Visitors must experience the magnificent treasures, such as the Basilica of Saint Vincent, Avilas cathedral, of the Cistercian Order, which is set into the ancient walls or any of the many churches.

AVILA Cathedral portrays the eldest transition of the Spanish Gothic. Beginning with the Romantic style of the 12th century and ending with the Gothic style in the inner sanctum of the cathedral, shaped in the form of a Latin cross with an intersecting cross at its exact centre. The Interior of the Cathedral offers the visitors an unforgettable visit, filled with light, history and liturgy. Nearby the Cathedral Museum can be found in the surrounds the Main Chapel.

The Basilica De San Vicente, Saint Vincent's Church is another perfect example of Avila's monuments. Originating in the 11th century in honour of its martyr and his sisters Sabina and Cristeta, it is one of the monumental complexes of Avila. It began in the Romanesque style; it was finished in the gothic style. The Tower called "The Mule's Square" is found in front of Saint Vincent's Church.

Saint Theresa's Church , Truly a breath taking complex formed of the birth house of Saint Theresa of Jesus, the façade of the church possesses neoclassic and baroque influences. Personal objects, relics, and images are exposed in relation to the life of the Saint.

Saint Peter's Church, Built in Romanesque style, with its beautiful open atrium, The Statue of Saint Peter crowns the complex. The lantern of the cross section is by itself a masterpiece; as well as the interior chapels.

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