The Church of San Pedro in Avila stands just outside the walls, and unlike the imposing Cathedral of Avila, it is a place to go if you feel in need of comfort. It is strange, is it not, how these buildings can carry such a strong atmosphere and presence.
A brief history
The church dates from c.1100 so it is the same age as the Basilica of San Vicente, and took c.300 years to complete. It enjoys World Heritage Site status together with Avila itself. The church is built of ‘bleeding granite’, the stone which is quarried in nearby La Colilla. Very little other information apparently exists.
The Church from the outside
The Church stands at the head of the Plaza Mercado Grande and immediately opposite the Gate of the Alcazar, so it is just outside the walls of Avila. And behind the church is the Benedictine Monastery of Nuestra Senora de Antigua which is close to the Convent of San Jose – Avila has many churches, convents and monasteries!
Inside the Church of San Pedro
As I walked into the church I felt a ‘yes’, and relaxed. It is peaceful and calm. No, I didn’t understand all of what I was seeing, and didn’t see everything I should have seen, and I didn’t take many photos – I just sat quietly for a while.
The Church of San Pedro in Avila is modest by comparison with the Cathedral and San Vicente, but if you are in Avila make sure that you visit and take in the calm.
Corners in Avila - London Traveller
[…] the centuries. The square is lined with cafes and pastry shops, with the wall at one end and the Church of San Pedro at the […]