St Thomas Royal Monastery, Avila, Spain.

© Adrian Wojcik/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Monasterio de Santo Tomás

Ávila


Commissioned by the Reyes Católicos (Catholic Monarchs), Fernando and Isabel, and completed in 1492, this monastery is an exquisite example of Isabelline architecture, rich in historical resonance. Three interconnected cloisters lead to the church that contains the alabaster tomb of Don Juan, the monarchs' only son.

The tomb is backed by an altarpiece by Pedro de Berruguete that depicts scenes from the life of St Thomas Aquinas. The magnificent choir stalls, in Flemish Gothic style, are accessible from the upper level of the second cloister, the Claustro del Silencio.

To get here, head southeast from Jardín de San Vicente along Calle de Ferrol Hernandez and Avenida del Alférez Provisional.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Ávila attractions

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5. Iglesia de Santo Tomé El Viejo

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6. Puerta del Alcázar

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7. Museo Provincial

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This regional museum includes local ethnographic exhibits (the 1932 photos by Albert Klemm are particularly interesting), as well as Roman artefacts and…

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