Free Photos of Avila

Avila, a beautiful and tranquil city in central Spain, is located around 100km northwest of Madrid. Encircled by impressive medieval walls, Avila's well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is renowned for its stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, quaint streets, and numerous museums. Avila's origins date back to the Roman Empire. However, the city's fame predominantly comes from Saint Teresa of Avila, Spain's patron saint, who was born here. Visitors can explore the convent where she lived from 1535 to 1538, which is now a fascinating museum. In addition, the Basílica de San Vicente, the most famous church in Avila, is an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 12th century. The city’s medieval walls, which span impressively over 2.5 kilometers, were constructed in the 11th century and still stand as solid as the day they were built. Visitors can climb up the walls and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside from the top. During a walk along the walls, travelers can see nine gates, each with its own history and unique design. Another must-visit place is the Monastery of Santo Tomás. Built-in the 16th century, it houses various chapels, a museum, and an impressive library where original documents from Christopher Columbus and the Catholic Kings are exhibited. Finally, visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, especially the world-famous Avila beef, while exploring the city’s tapas bars and restaurants.