Avila, Spain

Avila is one of the best-walled cities in the world.  Alfonso VI ordered the building of the walls to fortify the city during the battle between the Muslims and the Christians. The walls were built from 1090-1099AD.

The best view of the town is about a mile away at the Cuatro Postes.

The Cathedral of Avila

On the outside, the Cathedral looks like a fortress.  It is situated next to the ramparts and makes up part of the defense system.  It was thought to be the first Gothic cathedral in Spain. 

The Convent of Saint Teresa was built in the 17th century on the spot where she was born.  She established Discalced Carmelite convents throughout Spain.