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109 Km (68 miles) NW of Madrid, 67 Km (42 miles) SW of Segovia
The ancient city of Avila is completely encircled by well-preserved 11th- century walls, which are among the most important medieval relics in Europe. The city has been declared a national landmark, and there is little wonder why. The walls aren't the only attraction, however. Avila has several Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and a fortified cathedral. It is among some 80 cities designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites (six of these are in Spain; the other five are Santiago de Compostela, Segovia, Toledo, Cáceres, and Salamanca).
Avila's spirit and legend are most linked to St. Teresa, born here in 1515. This Carmelite nun, who helped defeat the Reformation and founded a number of convents, experienced visions of the devil and angels piercing her heart with burning hot lances. She was eventually imprisoned in Toledo. Many legends sprang up after her death, including the belief that a hand severed from her body could perform miracles. Finally, in 1622, she was declared a saint.
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