Ávila

Ávila is the capital of a province of the same name in the region of Castilla y León. At 1130 meters, it is the highest provincial capital in Spain. This should result in a relatively mild temperature in the summer.

The city is particularly known for its complete medieval wall. Construction of the wall began in 1090. The wall is 2.5 km long and has 88 towers. The wall itself is 3 meters thick and has an average height of 12 meters. The city wall also features 9 city gates.
Ávila is also the city with one of the largest numbers of churches in relation to its population. The cathedral dates from the 12th to the 15th century. Due to the long construction period, it features different forms of Gothic style.

The historical center of Ávila has been a World Heritage Site since 1985.

In 1515, Santa Teresa de Jesús was born here. She was a religious figure, mystic, and Spanish writer who founded the Order of the Discalced Carmelites. She is regarded as one of the most important Spanish saints.

Wim Willems