Find the Provincia de Ávila to the west of the very center of Spain. Discover the beauty of its towns and its impressive historical monuments, churches and palaces.
Visit Ávila, the capital of the province, also known as the “Tierra de cantos y de santos” (Land of stones and saints). As the names suggests, the town has numerous ancient stone constructions and a history in which religion has always played an important role. Santa Teresa de Ávila (Saint Teresa of Ávila or Saint Teresa of Jesus) is a venerated Roman Catholic saint born in the city. See the Muralla de Ávila (Walls of Ávila), one of the world’s best-preserved walled enclosures. The spectacular walls were built to protect the city and have an impressive perimeter of around 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), as well as 87 towers and nine gates.
Stop off at the Catedral de Ávila. This cathedral is a beautiful Gothic construction with an eastern recess forming part of the Walls. Walk around the Plaza de Santa Teresa square and admire the picturesque church Iglesia de San Pedro.
While you are in Ávila Province stop at the many small towns in the area with beautiful sites to discover. Visit Madrigal de las Altas Torres to see its impressive walls. Take a guided tour of the palace Castillo-Palacio de Magalia in the town of Las Navas del Marqués. Explore the Gothic castle Castillo de la Triste Condesa in Arenas de San Pedro. Hike in El Castañar, a magnificent chestnut forest in El Tiemblo.
Taste the traditional dishes of the region, such as sopa de ajo castellana (Castilian garlic soup), chuletón de Ávila (steak), cocido (stew), morcilla de cebolla (onion black pudding) and the local specialty, yemas de Santa Teresa (Saint Teresa yolks, a type of sweet pastry).
Discover the picturesque Provincia de Ávila in the southern part of the Spanish autonomous community Castilla y León. The weather in this province can vary dramatically. Some areas have severely cold winters and extremely hot summers.