Ávila Cathedral (Catedral de Ávila)
Plaza de la Catedral, 8, Castile and León, Ávila, 05001
The Ávila Cathedral is said to be the first Gothic cathedral ever built in Spain. Constructed to fit into the city’s fortified walls, it’s reminiscent of a castle—and this undoubtedly helped it survive hundreds of years of conflicts. Home to artworks and 15th-century stained glass windows, it’s a grand and unspoiled example of a Roman Catholic cathedral.
The basics
Ávila Cathedral‘s imposing spire and towers are built directly into the protection of Ávila’s Medieval city walls, adding to the fortress-church’s design and practical features. Wander the cloisters and transepts, and discover hidden rooms—such as the belfry where the bell-ringer’s family once lived, high in the gold-decorated rafters of the church. Find religious artworks throughout the church, including 16th-century pieces in the altar representing stories from the Bible and a piece by Medieval artist El Greco, Don Garci Báñez de Muxica.
Things to know before you go
Ávila Cathedral is a large church and it’s worth taking your time to see its different areas, courtyard, and works of art.
There is an entrance fee to pay—tickets can be bought in advance to skip the line.
Audio tours are available to visitors, with specially adapted audio tours for children.
Toilets are provided.
How to get there
Ávila Cathedral is in the old Medieval walled town area of the city. It’s a short walk from Ávila train station, and the nearest bus stop is either San Vicente or San Segundo. The center of Ávila is easy to walk around and ideal for photography, thanks to its cobbled streets and historic buildings.
When to get there
The cathedral is open every day, but tours are not available during church services on Sunday. It’s open Monday through Friday from mid-morning until early evening. Opening times on Saturday are slightly longer. Late evening is a great time to see Ávila Cathedral lit up.
Walk the Medieval Walls of Ávila
At the rear of Ávila Cathedral is the Medieval city wall, built to deter invaders and protect the city from the constant battles it had endured up to this point. Now, far from a deterrent, the walls are a picturesque addition to the city’s aesthetic. Pay a small fee and you can climb to the top and walk the length of the walls, giving you panoramic views of the city and its rooftops—a unique perspective that shows just how Ávila has grown and changed over the ages.
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