It Could Be the Devil

The Baroque facade of the Convent of St. Teresa and Church.

Statue is of St. Teresa of Avila

One of the joys of preparing for a trip is learning about the culture. Mr. Grumble and I watch movies, documentaries, travel shows, or read material about the places we are going or famous people from those countries. This year, we read about St. Teresa of Avila. We read her autobiography and "The Interior Castle." In her books, she states that many times when she experienced consolations (state of interior joy and peace, a feeling of God's presence and love. A closeness to God) she had to make sure it was from God or it might be the devil. You never underestimate the devil. She says it a lot and had many dealings with him. This was one of many fascinating discoveries of the controversial saint. We knew we were going to Avila and learning about their most famous resident was enlightening. We were excited to see where she was from. Upon entering the Medieval walls that surround the city, it helped enhance the majestic wonder of her ancient time.

Bernini's, "Ecstasy of St. Teresa." It is located in Rome at the Santa

Maria della Vittoria in the Cornaro Chapel.

I had, originally, learned of St. Teresa when I was at the University of Texas in Austin. I took an art history class devoted to Italian Renaissance and Baroque art. This beautiful Baroque sculpture (above) was one that we studied. I was fascinated by her story of the arrow piercing her heart and Bernini's depiction of it. I got to see it in person on a trip with my dad to Rome and then on my honeymoon with Mr. Grumble. Imagine my surprise when I realized we were going to see where the inspiration for it was on our trip to Spain!

A part of the city wall that surrounds the Old Town in Avila.

Arriving inside the city walls, we went straight to our hotel, the Palacio de los Velada. It is a beautiful 16th century palace in the Old Town. You are within walking distance to everything on your agenda. I highly recommend staying here.

The restaurant inside the hotel. Isn't it cool?

The breakfast area has an excellent buffet. The atmosphere is just delightful.

It was late, the night we arrived in Avila. Only a few restaurants were open. We were beyond thankful for Restaurante Campanelo being open and serving this Mexican pizza! It was delish!

Our first destination was a visit to Catedral de Avila or Catedral del Salvador (Cathedral of the Saviour). It was across the street from our hotel. Its construction started in the Romanesque style in the 12th century and was completed in the Gothic style in the 14th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The facade of this amazing cathedral. You can tour this church. We chose not to.

Stone lions are at the entrance of the cathedral.

Walking around Old Town, we found the Plaza Mercado Chico or Mayor Square. This is the Town Hall.

As we were searching for the convent of St. Teresa, we found the church where she was baptized, the church of San Juan.

The plaque on the right let us know this information. We did not go inside.

We finally arrive at the Convento de Santa Teresa. The church is built on the house where she was born and is part of the Carmelite convent. It has a large vaulted crypt that serves as the museum. Unfortunately, the museum was closed while we were in Avila. We were disappointed, but we did get to see the beautiful church.

The Peurta de Santa Teresa (gate of St. Teresa). You see her church and convent through it. It is where you can start her pilgrimage, commemorating her life. It takes four to six days and starts from Avila (where she was born) to Alba de Tormes (where she died).

The main altar. It was built on the site where they believe St. Teresa was born.

This presbytery was designed to accompany the room where St. Teresa was born.

Recreation of the room where the saint was born.

As you exit Old Town, a whole new world awaits.

Shops and restaurants on a street in Avila. You can see part of the wall of Old Town in the distance.

I'm not sure St. Teresa would appreciate this! Just sayin'

Avila was a wonderful addition to our trip. From staying in the palace to seeing St. Teresa's convent and church, it was worth the journey. Being inside the walls of Old Town made you feel like you were a part of her time period and you can see why she valued it enthusiastically. If you are planning a trip to Spain, take time to see this amazing city. It might surprise you too.