Catedral de Ávila
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Catedral de Ávila - by Xavier Llado on Google
Description
The Catedral de Ávila or Cathedral of the Saviour was designed as a fortress church, part of the wall of the apse's ambulatory is even embedded in the defensive walls surrounding the city. Construction started in the 12th century in Romanesque style but it was extended in stages until the 15th century, thus including many Gothic elements. The highlights include the sculpted north gate, the walnut choir stalls, the plateresque retrochoir, and the massive main altarpiece (begun by Pedro Berruguete). There is also a Diocesan museum located in the sacristies.
Access & Transport
The church is located in the centre of town, adjacent to the western side of the defensive walls. Avila is 110km west of Madrid (train takes 90mins from Principe Pio station) and Salamanca is 105km to the northwest (65mins by train)
Instructions & Recommendations
There is a supplement of €3 to climb the tower
Environmental & Social
No carbon footprint. Part of the town's artistic and architectural heritages
Conclusion
Clearly worth visiting for tourists already planning to be in Avila, unless you are suffering from church fatigue, but not amazing enough to justify a dedicated drive. Those who enjoy refined wood and stone carvings should not miss it.
Key positive
Plenty of artworks
Originality of blending partially with the city walls
Key negative
Slightly expensive
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility (except the tower). No religious denomination restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 10m
est. visit time:0h 50m
Monday10:00 - 21:00
Tuesday10:00 - 21:00
Wednesday10:00 - 21:00
Thursday10:00 - 21:00
Friday10:00 - 21:00
Saturday10:00 - 21:00
Sunday12:30 - 21:00