Avila

About

Founded in the 11th century to protect the Spanish territories from the Moors, Avila’s 3 meter thick walls are punctuated by 87 semi-circular towers and nine gates, and is the best preserved medieval bastion in the country. The eastern apse of Avila’s cathedral forms part of the town walls, and is half church, half fortress. The church’s earlier Romanesque parts are made of a red-and-white "blood" limestone, while the Gothic sections are pure white. These mixed materials continues inside, and is accented by stunning stained glass and Renaissance art. Among the city’s many churches, the 12th century Basilica of San Vicente pioneered the Gothic style in Spain, and houses the Cenotaph of the Holy Brothers Martyrs, considered one of the most important works of Romanesque sculptures in Spain. If all the walking has built up your appetite, try the Chuletón de Ávila, a T-bone steak from indigenous beef.