Ávila, behind the Walls of Time

Just outside the walls, this humble stone monument offers the most iconic panoramic view of Ávila. Especially magical at dusk or at night, it reveals the illuminated silhouette of the city against the sky. It is a place of contemplation, photography and legends, such as the one that tells that it was from this spot that Saint Teresa was taken back home when she tried to elope in her youth.

Regarded as Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, it began construction in the 12th century on top of an earlier temple. Its apse is built into the city wall, making it both fortress and sanctuary. Inside, highlights include the main altar, the Berruguete altarpiece, the cloister, and a remarkable collection of sacred art. It is an exceptional example of transition between Romanesque and Gothic.

One of the finest Romanesque churches in Castile and León. Built in the 12th century on the supposed site of the martyrdom of Saints Vincent, Sabina, and Cristeta, it is famous for its sculpted cenotaph and its façade with richly decorated archivolts. The reddish stone and harmonious basilica layout make it a true jewel of medieval architecture.

Erected on the site where Santa Teresa de Jesús was born in 1515, this Carmelite convent houses a Baroque church, a small Teresian museum and a cave where the saint is said to have prayed. It is a place of spiritual pilgrimage and deep religious symbolism, as well as a key point for understanding the influence of Saint Teresa in Ávila and in the history of mystical thought.

Founded by the Catholic Monarchs in the 15th century, this monumental complex stands out for its Elizabethan Gothic style and its three cloisters. It houses the tomb of Prince Don Juan, the only son of the Catholic Monarchs, and an oriental museum with pieces brought by Dominican missionaries. It was the seat of the Court of the Inquisition and later the University. Its sobriety contrasts with the beauty of its sculptural details.

Located opposite the Alcázar gate, this 12th-century Romanesque church is one of the oldest and most outstanding temples in Ávila. Its façade, central rose window and bell tower are outstanding features, as is its interior with Baroque altarpieces. It is one of the main examples of Avila’s Romanesque architecture.

The city’s main square, of medieval origin, has traditionally been the centre of public life in Ávila. Porticoed, welcoming and of great symbolic value, this is the site of the Town Hall and the church of San Juan Bautista, where Saint Teresa was baptised. It is an excellent place to rest, have a drink or simply observe the leisurely pace of the city.

Ávila preserves numerous palaces of the local nobility from the 15th and 16th centuries. The Palace of Superunda is notable for having been restored by the Italian painter Guido Caprotti, and today houses a collection of his work. Other important palaces are those of the Dávila family, the Núñez de Vela family and the Palace of the Verdugo family. All of them show the splendour of Renaissance civil architecture and the importance of Ávila as a city of nobility.

Located along the historic Camino de Santiago, this early Romanesque church was among the first built after the Reconquest. Its simple structure, semicircular apse and octagonal tower give it a rural and primitive air that contrasts with other large churches in the city. Its location next to the city walls makes it a beautiful place to stop and contemplate the passage of time.