Description of the attraction
In one of the districts of Avila, there is the old Church of John the Baptist (Church of San Juan Bautista). This temple was built in the 11th-12th centuries in the Romanesque style. In the 16th century, with the growth of the city's population, it became necessary to expand it, since the temple was too small and did not accommodate a sufficient number of parishioners. The church was completely rebuilt in the Gothic style. The reconstruction of the building began in 1504 under the direction of Martin Solorzano. After his death in 1506, the work was stopped, and again resumed a few years later under the leadership of Pedro Juan Campero Helmes, who built one of the chapels and the transept in the Renaissance style.
This church is of interest not only as an ancient architectural work, it is also remarkable for the fact that on April 4, 1515, the rite of baptism of St. Teresa was performed within its walls. There is still a baptismal font inside the temple, into which the future saint plunged. Saint Teresa of Avila, a native of the city, who lived for 20 years in a monastery, was one of the reformers of the Carmelite order. At present, this Saint is one of the most revered, the Catalytic Church ranked her among the Teachers of the Church.
In 1983, the Church of San Juan Bautista was awarded the status of a national architectural and historical monument. Today, a visit to the Avila Church of St. John the Baptist is free, and everyone has a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this building and touch its rich history.
