Plaza de Santa Teresa Mercado Grande
Avila's bustling Mercado Grande, a historic plaza alive with vibrant markets, a striking Santa Teresa sculpture, and gateway to ancient walls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Popular flea market day
Plaza de Santa Teresa Mercado Grande
Best Time
Popular flea market day
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Avila's bustling Mercado Grande, a historic plaza alive with vibrant markets, a striking Santa Teresa sculpture, and gateway to ancient walls.
"A central hub for markets and history, perfect for exploring Avila's charm."
🎯 Check Market Schedules
Markets vary! Fridays are for flea markets , but check for craft fairs or book festivals .
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring the plaza and potentially the city walls, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flea Market Finds
Plaza de Santa Teresa (Mercado Grande)
Discover unique second-hand treasures, vintage clothing, and bags at this vibrant Friday flea market. A must-visit for bargain hunters!
Sculpture of Santa Teresa
Center of Plaza de Santa Teresa
An imposing sculpture of St. Teresa of Jesus, a key figure in Spanish mysticism and a symbol of Avila, stands proudly in the plaza.
Seasonal Events
Plaza de Santa Teresa (Mercado Grande)
From book fairs to ice skating rinks and craft markets , the plaza transforms with diverse events throughout the year.
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Fruit and Vegetable Stalls
Plaza de Santa Teresa (Mercado Grande)
Find fresh produce, including large and delicious strawberries, at local fruit and vegetable stands. Great for a quick, healthy snack.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Markets
or book festivals, have specific dates. Check local listings to catch the event you're interested in.Beyond the Plaza: Explore Avila
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Market Schedules
Markets vary! Fridays are for flea markets, but check for craft fairs
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring the plaza and potentially the city walls, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Sculpture
The Santa Teresa sculpture is a prime photo spot, especially with the walls in the background. :camerawithflash:
🍎 Grab a Fresh Snack
Look for fruit and vegetable stalls for delicious, locally sourced treats. :apple:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Market Schedules
Markets vary! Fridays are for flea markets, but check for craft fairs
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring the plaza and potentially the city walls, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Sculpture
The Santa Teresa sculpture is a prime photo spot, especially with the walls in the background. :camerawithflash:
🍎 Grab a Fresh Snack
Look for fruit and vegetable stalls for delicious, locally sourced treats. :apple:
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Plaza
Don't miss the city walls and historic sites surrounding the plaza. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Plaza de Santa Teresa as a central and vibrant hub in Avila, highlighting its lively markets, especially the Friday flea market, and the iconic Santa Teresa sculpture. It's seen as a great starting point for exploring the historic walled city, offering a taste of local life and seasonal events.
"Here you will see where St. Theresa lived. The preserved remains of her finger can be found in the nearby souvenir shop."
Michelle “Mich” Esteban
"Great view of the wals and city"
David Rumptz
"Avila is fort city, small city but, if you like historical city you will love this place, you can climb the fort wall by buying the tickets, it will cost you 5 e and equiped with the tour guide device. You can explore the city in one day and dont forget to go outside the wall because you will find interesting place to explore."
Fresly Willyater
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de Santa Teresa (Mercado Grande) is centrally located in Avila, often visible from the city walls. If arriving by car, look for parking near the historic center. Many visitors find it easily accessible on foot once within the walled city.
While Avila is a walkable city, local buses may serve stops near the plaza. It's best to check local transport schedules upon arrival for the most convenient routes.
The Avila train station is a short taxi or bus ride from the city center. Walking from the station to Plaza de Santa Teresa would take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Plaza de Santa Teresa itself is a public square and does not have an entrance fee. However, specific events held within the plaza, like the book fair
As a public square, Plaza de Santa Teresa is generally accessible at all times. However, individual market stalls or event venues within the plaza will have their own operating hours.
No, entry to the flea market on Fridays is typically free. You only pay for any items you wish to purchase.
Tickets for climbing the Avila city walls can usually be purchased at designated entry points along the wall, often near the main gates. The cost is around 5 euros.
📸 📸 Photography
The sculpture of Santa Teresa is a central focus.
Yes, you can take photos at the flea market, but be mindful of vendors and other shoppers. Some vendors might prefer you ask before photographing their items.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for more pleasant photography conditions.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Yes, you can find fresh fruit and vegetable stalls offering snacks. Depending on the event, there might also be food vendors present. Numerous restaurants and cafes are also located in the surrounding streets.
Don't miss trying 'Yemas de Santa Teresa,' a sweet confection, often available in souvenir shops near the plaza.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open space of the plaza allows children to move around, and the sculpture of Santa Teresa can spark curiosity about history. Remember to bring snacks or plan for a meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants nearby. The nearby city walls also offer an exciting, albeit potentially tiring, exploration for active families.🚶 Budget Travelers
it offers incredible value for the views and historical insight. Many of Avila's main attractions are within walking distance, saving on transportation costs.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The bustling flea market offers opportunities for candid shots of vendors and shoppers, capturing the lively atmosphere.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vibrant Markets of Mercado Grande
lively book festivals, and even seasonal attractions like ice skating rinks during winter. The presence of fruit and vegetable stalls also adds to the market atmosphere, providing fresh, local produce.When planning your visit, it's crucial to check the local event calendar to align your trip with the specific market or festival you wish to experience. The plaza's versatility means there's often something new and exciting happening, making it a central point of activity in Avila. The energy of these markets, combined with the historic backdrop of the city, creates a memorable experience for all visitors.
A Central Hub with Historic Significance
a pivotal figure in Spanish mysticism and a beloved symbol of the city. This sculpture serves as a focal point and a popular spot for photographs, often framed against the backdrop of the city's iconic medieval walls. The plaza's location, situated outside the main walls but surrounded by historic architecture, arcades, and churches, makes it a natural gathering place and a key point of reference for exploring Avila.Many visitors use Plaza de Santa Teresa as a starting point for their explorations. From here, it's easy to access other key attractions such as the Mercado Chico (Plaza Mayor), the Puerta del Carmen, and the Basilica de San Vicente.
The proximity to the Muralla de Ávila (Avila's Wall) is particularly noteworthy, with opportunities to climb the walls and gain a unique perspective of the city. The plaza's role as a central hub, combined with its rich historical context and prominent landmarks, makes it an essential stop for anyone visiting Avila.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit