Sunday, June 16, 2024

Segovia, Spain — June 11 - 13, 2024


After completing our Caminos, we chose a couple of Spanish cities near Madrid to explore.  First, Segovia, a city of 53,000 situated 75 km northwest of Madrid.

The Roman Aqueduct

The Segovia Aqueduct is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a remarkable example of Roman engineering.  It was built during the reign of Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century AD.  Constructed without the use of mortar, the aqueduct consists of 24,000 granite blocks, showcasing its impressive double arches that reach a height of 30 meters.  It originally transported water from the Frío River, located 16 kilometres southeast of Segovia, and continued to do so until 1950.

Textured Walls

Moorish textured mosaic walls, reflecting geometric, and Arabesque designs.

The Cathedral

The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción y San Frutos sits atop Segovia’s highest point. Constructed between 1525 and 1768, it is a remarkable example of late Gothic architecture— the last to be built in Spain.  The cathedral's massive size and striking moorish influences house ornate chapels, stunning altarpieces, sunlit cloister, and one of the tallest towers in Spain.

On the way to the Alcazar.

The Alcazar

The Alcázar of Segovia is a fortress atop a rocky crag at the confluence of two rivers.  Built in the 12th-century, it has served as a residence for the Kings of Castile, a fortress, and a royal artillery college. It’s striking turrets and fairy-tale charm provided inspiration for Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle.



View from the Alcazar.
Ceilings in the Alcazar.

Throne room and depictions of kings and queens.

On our walk through the park below the Alcazar and around the old town walls.

An aerial view of Segovia


2 comments:

  1. These photos are stunning and look like they belong in Cinderella! It is a stunning city.

    ReplyDelete
  2. National Geographic is calling you both!

    ReplyDelete

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