SPAIN - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 500

Day Excursion to
Avila
Walled City
Depart from Madrid Chamartin Station or Principe Pio
Distance by Train: 70 miles (112 km)
Average Train Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
City Dialing Code: 920
Tourist Information Office: Casa de las Carnicerias san Segundo, 17 5001 Avila
Tel: [phone]; Fax: [phone]
www.turismoavila.com
Email: [e-mail]
Hours: May-September, 0900-2000 daily; October-April, 0900-1730 daily
RENFE at Avila Railway Station: Tel: [phone]
Notes: The tourist office is about a 20-minute walk. Follow the Paseo de la Estacion
across from the station to the Paseo Rastro and the tourist office will be on the north
side of the street.
Avila is the capital of the province of Avila, and at 1,127 meters it is the highest pro-
vincial capital in Spain and the best-preserved walled city in the world. The city is
completely enclosed by 1.2 miles (2.5 kilometers) of 12th-century walls averaging
33 feet high and 10 feet thick, with 90 towers and 9 gateways. The enormousness
of this project becomes apparent when you realize it was constructed in 1085.
Viewed from Los Cuatro Postes, an observation post on the Salamanca Road
outside the city, Avila is a breathtaking sight nestled on the Adaja River against the
mountains. From here, the walled city appears to be a fascinating giant stage all set
for a medieval drama.
Avila is most remembered for Saint Teresa. Her presence is most evident in the
convent Nuestra Senora de Gracia, built at the site of her parents' home; the
Monastery de la Encarnacion, which depicts her lifestyle; and “Las Madres” (Monas-
tery de San Jose), her first foundation.
Across the street from the tourist office is the Gran Hotel Palacio Valderra-
bonos. This former noble's residence is an excellent place to have lunch. Its door
dates from the 15th century.