Ávila Plaza Mayor

The basics

Visit the Ávila Plaza Mayor and see where generations of Castile y León natives have gathered before. For centuries, this plaza has served as an important local market, and a place where people came to share news and pass laws. In the 16th century, church elders decided a formal building was needed for council business and lawmaking, and so the first Ávila City Hall was built.

Now, the Ávila Plaza Mayor is home to a regular fruit and vegetable market, and remains a central destination in Ávila for festivals and celebrations. Shops and cafés line the plaza, selling local treats and serving typical tapas dishes, and there are plenty of bars to visit in the evenings.

Things to know before you go

• The Ávila Plaza Mayor is available to visit round the clock.

• Head to the arcades surrounding the plaza for souvenirs and gifts.

• The streets a little further back from the plaza become immediately less crowded—find some hidden gems here.

How to get there

The Ávila Plaza Mayor is set beside the Church of Saint John the Baptist in the center of the small city. It’s a short walk from El Rastro park, or if you’re visiting the medieval city walls, wander a few blocks south and you’ll find it.

When to get there

Ávila Plaza Mayor is busiest around lunchtime, so if you’re hoping to take atmospheric photographs of the architecture or snap that perfect selfie, it’s best to visit earlier in the morning or even late at night. The market is every Friday.

Walk the medieval walls

Originally constructed to protect the market city, Ávila’s walls are a fascinating example of medieval architecture, with turrets and towers. The walls are best preserved near the Jardín de San Vicente, and from here you can follow them for about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers). Along the way, find historic doors to the city, and walk along the tops of the walls for panoramic views.