Mystical Avila: Unraveling the Charms of Central Spain
Avila (sp. Ávila) awaits you in the heart of Central Spain, nestled in the autonomous region of Castile and Leon. Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Gordos mountains, Avila is not only one of the oldest and most beautiful places in Spain but also a historical gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Its medieval fortification walls, stretching for 3 km, guard a treasure trove of Romanesque churches, Middle Age monasteries, and Renaissance palaces. Avila exudes artistic and cultural richness, harkening back to its illustrious past as a prominent textile and pilgrimage center.
Geography and Climate
Avila sits at the entrance of the autonomous region of Castile and Leon, on the right bank of the Adaja River, a tributary of the Duero. Perched on a plateau, it enjoys a continental Mediterranean climate. As one of the coldest regions in Spain, the average temperature reaches 11 degrees Celsius. While summers are hot and dry, winters bring a chill with occasional frosts.
Practical Information
With a population of approximately 58.2 thousand people, Avila covers an area of 231.9 square kilometers. The official language is Spanish, and the currency is the euro. For travelers, a Schengen visa is applicable, and the local time follows Central European Time (UTC +1, +2).
History
The roots of Avila date back to the 7th century BC when the Vetton tribe first settled in the region. Under Roman rule, Avila transformed into a fortified wall, and remnants of this heritage can still be found in the streets of the historical center. Later, it passed through the hands of the Visigoths and Moors but miraculously retained much of its original character.
The period of Reconquista saw Avila’s possession switch between Moors and Christians, witnessing both gains and losses. Ultimately, it became part of the Kingdom of Leon in the 11th century, and its strong fortifications endured through the ages.
Old Town of Avila
During the 12th century, Avila flourished as a center of the textile industry, with fabrics being sold in the manner of the Flemish and Italians. However, the 14th century brought challenges, as the city faced attacks by the British. By the end of the 16th century, Avila began to decline, leading to changes in its population and economic fortunes. In 1809, the city endured the pillaging by French soldiers.
How to Reach Avila
The nearest airport is in Salamanca, about 50 km away from Avila. However, the best and most accessible option is Madrid’s airport, located approximately 100 km from the city. Regular bus services from Madrid, Salamanca, and Segovia are available, and the railway station is conveniently located just 500 m away from the historical center.
Cuisine
Avila offers a delightful range of dining options, with numerous restaurants and cafes located near Calle de San Segundo and the lanes around Plaza del Mercado Chico. Traditional Spanish dishes like the cowhide steak (Chuletón de Ávila), piglet or lamb butter, veal with beans, and egg roll cake with zucr (Yemas de Ávila) are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Notable Features
The historic center of Avila is characterized by its well-preserved fortifications, which are among the finest examples of this kind in Spain. The walls, dating back to the 11th and 14th centuries and built on Roman and Arab foundations, span about 2.5 km and stand at an average height of 12 meters.
With 88 towers and 9 city gates, these remarkable stone walls offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s medieval past. Puerta de San Vicente and Puerta del Alcazar are particularly noteworthy among the city gates, while the walls afford stunning panoramic views of the surroundings.
The Cathedral of San Salvador, one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Spain, is another marvel worth exploring. Its construction began in the 11th century, and the cathedral boasts impressive granite architecture, alongside beautiful stained-glass windows, a grand choir, and a sacristy adorned with sculptures.
Embark on an enchanting journey to Avila and delve into the charms of this ancient city, where history and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.