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- The city of Ávila is located in the centre of Spain, in the Autonomous Community of Castile and León. Founded in the 11th century to protect the Spanish territories from the Moors, this 'City of Saints and Stones' has maintained its medieval austerity, and is the birthplace of St Teresa and burial place of the Grand Inquisitor, Torquemada.
whc.unesco.org/en/list/348Old Town of Ávila with its Extra-Muros Churches - UNESCO ...
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History. In pre-Roman times (the 5th century BC), Ávila was inhabited by the Vettones, who called it Obila (Ὀβίλα) ("High Mountain") and built one of their strongest fortresses here. There are Bronze Age stone statues of boars (known as verracio) nearby. Archeological remains from the Roman era near the Gate of San Vicente
At over 1000m above sea-level it is the highest provincial capital in Spain. Avila is famous for its medieval walls. They are arguably the best in Europe. The 11th century walls are two kilometres long, have 88 turrets and are perfectly preserved. The town is also famous as the home of Saint Teresa.
Avila is most known for the medieval city walls, that were constructed of brown granite in 1090: surmounted by a breastwork, with eighty-eight towers and nine gateways, they are still in excellent repair, but a large part of the city lies beyond their perimeter.
Ávila’s walls, in polygonal form and extending 8,202 feet (2,500 metres) in circumference, were built in the 12th century and encompassed the whole of ancient Ávila (the old town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985); the modern part of the city lies outside.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Nestled within the autonomous community of Castile and León, Avila is famous for its remarkably well-preserved medieval walls, which have earned the city the title of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Let's dive into the captivating history and colorful charm that Avila has to offer.
With its fully preserved medieval city walls, magnificent churches and stalwart fortress, the Spanish city of Avila is one of the most visually inspiring places in the country. The City of Saints and Stones was the birthplace of saints, as well as being the burial spot of many Spanish Inquisitors.
Old Town of Ávila with its Extra-Muros Churches. Founded in the 11th century to protect the Spanish territories from the Moors, this 'City of Saints and Stones', the birthplace of St Teresa and the burial place of the Grand Inquisitor Torquemada, has kept its medieval austerity.
