Deep in the heart of the historic quarter of Avilés is the Plaza de España, a 17th-century square that’s also known to locals as El Parche or The Patch. Visit centuries-old buildings, sleep in a former palace and enjoy tapas on a terrace bar.
Dominating one side of the plaza is Avilés Town Hall, a porticoed Baroque palace that was constructed in 1670. Admire its architectural splendor.
Walk to the NH Collection Palacio de Avilés, today a five-star hotel. Formerly the Palace of the Marquésof Ferrera, this 17th-century Baroque building served as the home of generations of this Spanish noble family. Behind the property is the Parque de Ferrera, a public park that was once the palace's gardens. This attractive green space was one of the Avilés locations used by director Woody Allen in the 2008 movie Vicky Cristina Barcelona.
See other ancient buildings in nearby streets. Tour the chapels of the Church of the Franciscan Fathers, which dates back to the 12th century. It houses the tomb of Pedro Menéndez, the 16th-century Spanish admiral and explorer who founded St. Augustine, Florida, the first Spanish settlement in what is now the continental United States.
Contemplate the 14th-century Gothic Palace of Valdecarzana, one of the oldest civil buildings in Avilés. The main façade is the only original part of the structure that survives to the present day.
As you make your way around this part of the Old Town, browse the shops and independent boutiques. After all the walking and exploring, come back to the square for a drink and meal in one of the bars. During good weather, enjoy refreshments outdoors.
The Plaza de España is located in Avilés Old Town, which is easy to reach by public transportation. Alternatively, drive and park for a fee in underground parking garage by the square.
