Description of the attraction
In the northwestern part of Avila, on the picturesque bank of the Adajo River, there is an amazing church dedicated to Saint Segundo, or the Skete of San Segundo. According to local tradition, Saint Segundo was the first archbishop of the city, the first to preach the Christian faith in these parts. Saint Segundo became one of the city's patrons, loved and revered by the locals. Every year on May 2, the inhabitants of Avila organize festivities in his honor. On this day, people visit the hermitage of San Segundo and, touching the tomb of the saint with a handkerchief, make a wish, which, according to legend, must be fulfilled. Also, a festive Mass is held in honor of Saint Segundo, and his image is transferred to the Cathedral and flowers are laid on him.
The Church of San Segundo was built between 1130 and 1160 and is one of the oldest in the city. Built in Romanesque style, the church was originally dedicated to Saints Lucia and Sebastian. In 1519, the relics of Saint Segundo were transported here and the church was renamed in his honor. The church has three naves, which are crossed by three apses. The stone structure has an asymmetrical trapezoidal shape. Inside there is a magnificent altarpiece, made in the Baroque style, and there is also a tomb with the remains of Saint Segundo. The interiors are also decorated with sculptures and paintings by the French-Spanish sculptor and painter Juan de Juni.
In 1923, the San Segundo skete received the status of a national architectural and historical monument.
