2-370-041 - Samuel Magal/Sites & Photos/Heritage Images

Mercado Chico Square, Avila, Spain, 2007. Plaza del Mercado Chico, the place where the ancient Roman forum stood, is now the city centre of Avila. After an initial project presented by Ventura Rodriguez, a number of architects played a part in the square's design. However, building did not actually commence until the late 18th century, with contributions from Antonio Cuerbo. The square was finally completed in the 19th century. City Hall is the work of Vazquez de Zuniga. The front of the City Hall faces the square, as does the facade of the church of San Juan, rebuilt between the 15th and the 16th centuries. Avila was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.