A Short Trip from Madrid: The Knight's Avila

A short trip from Madrid, about 1.5 hours by car, takes you to the ancient city of Avila. This medieval castle town, with its massive ancient city walls, is situated at an altitude of 1128 meters, making it the highest city in Spain. The city is surrounded by 9 gates and 88 towers, creating a truly magnificent sight. Avila has a beautiful name, officially known as 'The Knight's Avila,' also referred to as 'The City of Saints and Stones' or 'The City of Saints.' Its most famous feature is the 2.5-kilometer-long medieval city wall that encircles and protects the city from all directions. Originally built to defend against Moorish invasions, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When visiting Avila's old town, the main attractions are the cathedral and the castle. A unique spot outside the northern part of the city is the 'Four Poles,' a high vantage point offering the best view of Avila's ancient city. There is also a cross monument nearby. A stay of about 3-4 hours is sufficient. It is recommended to include Salamanca in your itinerary for a day trip, as it is conveniently located for a round trip.