Avila is Spain’s highest capital province. The provincial rule of Avila changed hands from The Romans to the Moors, who ruled it for about three centuries, until finally it came under Christian rule in the year 1085. Avila has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO.

Avila has many places of interest for the tourist.

Capilla de Mosen Rubi:

This chapel built around 1516 now belongs to a Dominican nunnery. The uniqueness of this chapel is that it contains the Christ’s polychrome figure. This most revered place draws large crowd every day.

Cathedral:

Construction of this cathedral is said to have taken about three centuries, finally being completed in the 14th century. This is the Cathedral of San Salvador. The cathedral is built of granite, with two towers, and its doors are beautifully carved. Unfortunately the sculptural work was damaged due to pollution. The granite work inside the cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture. The restoration work is now going on.

Jewish settlement:

People belonging to the Jewish community still live in this part of the city. Their Jewish costumes, dress and religious practices are interesting to watch.

Walls around the town:

The town is surrounded by a wall which is about 2800 yards long and about 40 feet high. The wall has 9 gates. Observation posts have been set up on the walls at vantage points and at a convenient distance between two posts. It is a pleasure to watch this great wall. At regular intervals, steps have been provided to climb up the wall.

Plaza De Santa Teresa:

This is the shopping area where traditional works by the local Jewish community and other inhabitants are sold. It has many restaurants and bars where tapas and other drinks are served. The rates are quite reasonable to suit every type of visitor.

Gothic buildings:

Most of the buildings in Avila are of Gothic architecture. The Cathedral of Avila is a holy place and even this building dating back to the medieval period has been built in the traditional Gothic style. This place is a pilgrimage center and many people visit it.

San Pedro Church:

This church built during the 12th and 13th century is admired for its large rose windows. The Moran painting, ‘Saint Peter in Chains,’ is believed to have been done in 1673 and adorns the wall of this holy place.

There are numerous villas to ensure a comfortable stay for the visitors.

Read about Villa Calpe and Villas Moraira