Europe’s best-preserved walled city is in Spain, and it’s a cheap, good-dining medieval escape.

Ávila is a city that is a monument in itself, thanks to its rich heritage. It is not in vain that its old town has been declared a World Heritage Site. In addition, although one day is enough to visit the most relevant, it is worth spending the night there to enjoy the peace without tourists. Therefore, it is perfect for a weekend getaway and Have a good steak after whet your appetite as you wander through its palaces and temples.

What to see in Avila?

Avila’s most famous monument is its wall. In Romanesque style, 12 meters high and 3 meters thick, it surrounds the entire city for more than 2,500 meters. Thanks to him the city became the best preserved medieval walled enclosure in all of Europe. The most impressive entrances are the Puerta del Alcázar and Puerta de San Vicente, both of which have two large towers connected by a bridge.

Another highlight is the Cathedral’s apse, known as the Cimorro, embedded in the same wall like another tower. Cathedral of Christ the Savior It was the first Gothic cathedral in Spain. It was built in the 12th century and, due to its location, had two functions: a religious temple and a defensive fortress.

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this St. Peter’s ChurchLocated in the Plaza del Mercado Grande (opposite the Puerta del Alcázar), it is one of the city’s must-see attractions. It is a Romanesque temple from the first half of the 12th century and has been declared a National Monument. Inside you can see various works of art and Renaissance altars made of bleached wood.

Built at the beginning of the 17th century and declared a National Monument, Santa Teresa Convent It is one of the most beautiful churches in Ávila. It is also notable for its sober façade with an image of the Saint, and legend says it was built on the house where he was born.

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Located on the left side of the Adaja river, Four Message Perspectives It offers the best views of Ávila. It is a tomb with a cross in the middle, consisting of four Doric columns connected by an architrave. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the sun illuminates the wall.

Finally, there are many palaces in this walled city. They stand out for their inner courtyards and simple façades and are among the most prominent: Veladas Palace (converted to hotel), Superunda Palace (best preserved in town), Davila Palace (an example of a fortified medieval palace) or Guzmanes Tower (Renaissance quadrangle tower).

Wikipedia

Where to eat in Avila?

Revolconas potatoes, avila steak, oil lamp salad… Another visit point at the pinnacle of Ávila’s gastronomy and architecture. Located at number five on Calle Pedro, Lagasca is one of the city’s most prized restaurants. good and cheap food. This is Los Candiles, famous for its meat.

Another option very close to the Cathedral (at Calle Estrada, 11), is Restaurante Bococo. Very generous portions, friendly staff and good product. Although we can name many more names of the same style: Siglodoce, El viejo Marqués, Taberna de los Verdugo…

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