Avila information
Barco de Ávila: Ruta de Carlos V
During his last days in Castilla y León,
around the 10th of November 1556, the Emperor crossed the lands
of Barco de Ávila. This marked the last of Carlos V's stops
in Castilla y León during his journey.
The town t is famous for its beans and takes its name from the
boat used in ancient times to cross the river Tormes.
It is situated in the area surrounding the Sierra de Gredos. The
magnificent 16th century Roman bridge that is built on Roman pillars
preserved its central tower until the 19th century when it was
destroyed by French troops during the War of Independence. Another
place worthy of a visit is the Church of la Asunción. The
church still has traces of its 12th century origins, although
it was restored in the 14th century. The church houses the Museo
Parroquial, in which one can find gold and silver artefacts, coins,
and religious sculptures and canvases.
However, perhaps one of the most outstanding features of this
town is the 25 metres tower. It is known as the clock tower because,
for many years, it did have a clock. The clock is now kept in
the Casa del Reloj.
Among the splendid jewels of Barco de Ávila, the castle
must be visited. From this castle, there is one of the best views
over the river Tormes. Although the castle was originally built
in the 12th century, it was rebuilt between the 14th and 15th
centuries. The Torre del Homenaje was from this latter period.
The 18th century Ermita de San Pedro, the Casa de los Balcones and the Plaza Mayor blend in with the rest of the town's wall, which, despite the years, still maintains its Medieval flavour.
This is where Carlos V's journey through Castilla y León
ends. It represents the Emperor's last journey on his way to his
retreat, the Monasterio de Yuste, where he died on the 21th of
September, 1558.
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