A 48-year-old motorcyclist has died and a woman has been injured in the collision between a motorcycle and a car at kilometer 244 of the N-110, in the Avila town of Berrocalejo de Aragona.
The events occurred around 5:07 p.m., at which time the operations room of the Castilla y León 112 Emergency Center received a call reporting an accident between a motorcycle and a car on the aforementioned road and requesting assistance for two injured, since the motorcyclist was unconscious and the driver of the tourism trapped inside.
With these data, the Emergency Center has notified the Civil Guard of Ávila Traffic, the Ávila Fire Department and Health Emergencies – Sacyl, which has sent a medical team to the area and a basic life support ambulance.
At the scene, Sacyl personnel have confirmed the death of the motorcyclist, a 48-year-old man, and have treated the driver of the tourism, who was subsequently transferred by basic life support ambulance to the Ávila Assistance Complex.
Unearthing the Timeless Marvels of Ávila’s Old Town
In the 12th century, Ávila’s prominence soared as it became a thriving hub for the textile industry in the Pyrenees. Although local fabrics couldn’t match the quality of Flemish and Italian counterparts, the city thrived. However, the 14th century brought challenges, as Ávila faced attacks by British forces. As the pages of history turned, the city gradually lost its significance, experiencing a decline in population and economic prosperity. In 1809, the city bore the brunt of French troop looting, further impacting its trajectory.
Photo: Ávila’s Old Town. Spain.
Awe-Inspiring Attractions
The historic center of Ávila proudly boasts one of its most spectacular features—the Medieval City Fortifications. Enveloping the Old Town, these formidable walls are a testament to their medieval heritage. Constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries on Roman and Arab foundations, these powerful structures stretch for 2.5 km, with an average thickness of 3 m. Adorned with 88 towers and 9 city gates, they stand tall, offering a glimpse into Ávila’s past as an impregnable stronghold.
Photo: Medieval City Fortifications. Spain.
Embark on a captivating journey along the medieval walls, starting from the grandiose Puerta de San Vicente and Puerta del Alcázar, both built atop ancient Roman foundations, leaving visitors spellbound. Admire the striking Stork’s Nest Tower near Puerta del Carmen, beckoning you to unravel the secrets of Ávila’s architectural treasures.
Photo: Puerta de San Vicente and Puerta del Alcázar. Spain
An Architectural Marvel – The Cathedral
Among the crown jewels of Ávila stands the Cathedral of San Salvador, an extraordinary religious masterpiece and one of Spain’s oldest Gothic cathedrals. With its construction spanning several centuries, the cathedral harmoniously blends Romanesque and Gothic influences. Noteworthy features of the interior include exquisite white and red granite masonry, awe-inspiring stained glass windows from the 15th century, a majestic plateresque choir, and an enchanting altar and sacristy adorned with sculptures.
Photo:An Architectural Marvel – The Cathedral. Spain
Embrace Religious Heritage
Immerse yourself in Ávila’s rich religious heritage by visiting the Monastery of the Incarnation of the Lord. This 17th-century monastery, built for Carmelite monks, holds a special place in history as the birthplace of St. Teresa, the revered patron saint of Ávila. Inside, the lavishly decorated baroque chapel and the museum offer insights into the life and legacy of this illustrious Catholic saint.
Photo: Avila. Spain.
Discover the Basilica of San Vicente, a grand Romanesque church, believed to stand on the site of St. Vicente’s martyrdom. Much of its construction dates back to the early 12th century, incorporating elements from the 14th century, presenting a remarkable blend of architectural styles.
Photo: Basilica of San Vicente. Spain.
Stroll Through the Jewish Quarter
Step back in time as you wander through Ávila’s Jewish quarter, where the echoes of a once-prosperous and influential Jewish community resonate through the medieval cobbled streets and alleys.
Photo: Jewish Quarter. Spain.
Unveiling Architectural Splendor
Marvel at the architectural splendor of Mozen Ruby, a 16th-century chapel boasting a rich and illustrious interior. Originally a burial place for an influential aristocratic family, the chapel later became part of a female Dominican monastery.
Photo: Mozen Ruby. Spain.
Beyond the City Walls
Venture outside the city walls to discover the graceful Renaissance style of Santa Maria de Gracia monastery, a 16th-century sanctuary that stands as a testament to elegance and artistic refinement.
Photo: Santa Maria de Gracia monastery. Spain
Explore the Diversity of Religious Structures
Delve into the diverse array of religious structures within Ávila, from the Renaissance charm of Las Gordillas monastery, a declared national monument, to the Romanesque beauty of San Andres Church, a national treasure boasting a simple three-nave layout.
Photo: San Andres Church. Spain.
Prepare to be captivated by the timeless allure of Ávila’s Old Town, where every step unravels a rich tapestry of history, art, and cultural heritage, leaving visitors enchanted by the resplendent beauty of this remarkable city.
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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).
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Plaza del Mercado Chico. Spain
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.
Photo: Avila. Puerta de San Vicente . Spain.
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.
Photo: Avila. Puerta de San Vicente . Spain.
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.
