The layout of the wall-city of Ávila is Roman in origin. Its rectangular shape with two main streets intersecting at a forum in the center of town makes it easy to navigate.
One of the notable facts about the cathedral of Ávila is that the eastern apse forms part of the town walls. It is half church and half fortress showcasing Gothic, Burgundian, Renaissance and Romanesque styles of architecture.
Our quest for a lavandería automática (self-service laundromat) took us through the walled city out to a commercial district. It was a good 45 minutes walk round trip. Most people in the United States own washer and dryer but not in Europe. Even those with washing machines in their homes usually have to hang their clothes to dry. Having a service located in a gas station is very convenient. Our two loads of wash & dry were done in less than an hour at the cost of US$14.40.
Aloha -- Cathi