Puerta del Carmen Avila Spain

by Joan Carroll

Title

Puerta del Carmen Avila Spain

Artist

Joan Carroll

Medium

Photograph - Photography And Digital Art

Description

The walls around the historic core of Avila Spain were completed between the 11 and 14th centuries, before Columbus was even around to think about his explorations. The fortifications are the most complete in Spain, with even the cathedral forming part of the defensive perimeter. There are nine gates, this one being the Puerta del Carmen on the north side of the city. Each gate has its own function and design. The Puerta del Carmen (Gate of El Carmen) is a skewed entrance, meaning that to gain access from the outside, a turn is necessary, which prevents it from being approached head-on. This formula was very common in Moslem military architecture and guaranteed a better defense system by impeding a head-on attack. It also differs from other entrances because the turrets around it have a square layout. The gate takes its name from a Carmelite convent that was once joined to the walls. The site was registered as a National Monument in 1884. In 1985, the old city of Avila and its extramural churches were declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

FEATURED PHOTO, Spain The Mainland And Islands Of Spain group, 7/25/16

FEATURED PHOTO, Exploration Photography group, 6/30/16

FEATURED PHOTO, Spanish Theme Artwork Group, 6/28/16

FEATURED PHOTO, Art - It Is Good For You group, 6/27/16

joan carroll, rampart, protection, spanish, stone, travel, wall, tower, tourism, stronghold, medieval, landmark, fortress, fortification, europe, ancient

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June 27th, 2016

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