Segovia city in Spain map. Segovia is a city of attractions in Spain. Best time to visit

The Spanish kings loved Segovia very much. They got the city through fighting, conquered from the Moors during the Reconquista. Initially rebuilt into an even stronger fortress than it was, it gradually began to turn into a place where crowned persons constantly came, accompanied by a large retinue. Palaces appeared in Segovia, including the Alcazar.

Behind them are more palaces, dozens of temples and monasteries. Over time, the monarchs lost interest in Segovia, and that is why the city retained its ancient, austere appearance, devoid of later architectural additions.

Segovia Alcazar - the most famous castle in

CITY OF PALACES AND... WOOL

Old Segovia owes the luxury of its palaces and temples to the kings of Spain, and the wealth of its inhabitants to the cloth trade.

Segovia is located in central Spain, it is one of the cities in historical region Castile is relatively close to Madrid.

The city is located on the northern slope mountain range Sierra de Guadarrama - spurs mountain range Cordillera Central, on a rocky plateau at an altitude of approximately 1000 m, where the Eresma and Clamores rivers meet.

Around the 10th century BC e. On the site of present-day Segovia, the Celtic tribes founded a fortified settlement - castrum and called it Segobriga, or Victorious. The fortress town defended the passes through the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.

By 80 BC. e. The center of the Iberian Peninsula was conquered by the Romans. Segovia interested them both as a fortress that controlled the passes, and as a place where they could build market town. In the same year, the Romans proclaimed Segovia a city, in a short time she became shopping center. And through commerce local population actively absorbed Roman culture and language. Segovia became one of the main conductors of the Romanization of the center of the peninsula.

The city grew rich, including due to the development of lapis lazuli deposits, which had long served as a valuable mineral dye. Around the 1st century. An ancient Roman aqueduct appeared in the city, which has survived to this day and has become a symbol of the city.

The Roman Empire fell by the time the population of Segovia had already converted to Christianity. In the 5th century the city survived several waves of invasion by Germanic tribes, became part of the kingdom of the Alans, then the Vandals, then for two centuries - the kingdom of the Visigoths.

At the beginning of the 8th century. The Arab Caliphate conquered almost the entire Iberian Peninsula. Later, a separate Emirate of Cordoba was formed, and Segovia became one of its cities: the Arabs renamed it Sicubia and turned it into a fortress, building powerful fortress walls, partially preserved today.

At the end of the 11th century. During the Reconquista, the king of Castile and Leon, Alfonso VI (1072-1109), captured the strategically important Toledo. The Moors asked for support, and the powerful North African Apmoravid dynasty came to their aid. To cover southern border state, in 1088 Alfonso VI began the restoration of Segovia, which he had captured, which by that time had already been abandoned by the Moors.

Since the 12th century. Segovia developed rapidly, helped by the benefits granted by the king in the wool trade (sheep farming had been practiced in the surrounding area since the reign of the Moors) and textile enterprises built in the city.

The city was transformed, beautiful buildings appeared in it, and already in the 12th century. Segovia became a royal residence, it was built luxurious palace Alcazar. It housed the courts of the kings who belonged to the house of Trastámara - Juan II of Castile (1405-1454) and Enrique IV (1425-1474). In 1474, Isabella I of Castile (1451-1504), the first queen of Spain, was enthroned in the church of San Miguel.

But by the end of the 16th century. The heyday of Segovia ended: the cloth factories were closed, and the kings lost interest in it, and even the royal residence of the Alcazar was turned into state prison, then to the artillery school. Segovia gradually lost its influence, partially regaining it only in the 18th century. with the coming to power of the Bourbons.

In the 19th century the city suffered an invasion by Napoleonic army. A new economic and cultural rise in Segovia began in the mid-20th century. Today it is a center of tourism and trade in the center of Spain.

THREE COMPONENTS OF THE SOUL OF THE CITY

The old quarter of Segovia, on a ledge between the Eresma and Clamores rivers, is a museum under open air with many architectural monuments, the most famous are the aqueduct, the cathedral and the Alcazar Palace.

Most ancient monument Segovia is an aqueduct built at the end of the 1st century, around the time of the emperors Vespasian, Domitian, Nerva or Trajan. Over time, it became something like an axis on which the entire city “supports”.

The aqueduct is one of the largest Roman engineering structures in Spain. In the niche above the arches, where the statue of the Virgin Mary now stands, a Roman inscription about the laying of the water conduit remained for a long time.

The aqueduct is made of approximately 20 thousand granite slabs and blocks, not fastened with mortar: they are held on each other only by gravity. The length of the two-tier aqueduct bridge is 638 m, it is divided into 166 arches. The height of the arches depends on the slope of the soil under the conduit, whose height reaches 29 m (including 6 m of the foundation). Until the end of the 19th century. The aqueduct carried water into the city from the Fuente Fria River in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, covering a distance of 15 km.

In 1884, the building was declared a national monument of the Kingdom of Spain. The symbol of the city, it is depicted in all details on the coat of arms of Segovia.

Another recognizable symbol of the city is the Alcazar, a castle on a rocky hill between the Eresma and Clamores rivers.

Probably some kind of fortress stood here under the Celts, and then under the Romans. The name Alcazar was given by those who built it new fortress Moors: in Arabic this means “fortress”.

The first written mention of the Alcazar is found in documents from 1122. The main fortifications were erected in 1410-1455. The last time the castle was rebuilt was in 1587. In 1764, King Charles II founded the Royal School of Artillery within its walls. In 1862, there was a big fire in the Alcazar, and the building was significantly reconstructed, adding elements of the neo-romantic style. Since 1953, the palace premises have housed the Military Archives and the Artillery Museum.

The elongated layout of the castle is due to the shape of the rocky ledge on which it stands. The Alcazar complex includes two courtyards and two towers, including the 80-meter tower of Juan II, which previously housed prisoners.

The architecture of the complex is dominated by the Roman-Gothic style, and in general it can be considered an example of Castilian castles, if not for the pointed turrets of the donjon, the main tower of Juan II, that stand out from the general style.

The interior layout of the castle has been preserved intact. The main hall is the Gothic Royal Hall with 52 reliefs of the kings of Asturias, Castile and Leon. The throne room is designed in the Mudejar style.

The Alcazar has a complex system of underground rooms and secret passages leading to the river bank and other city palaces.

Similar to the current castle Cathedral St. Mary's, massive, built of golden stone on the site of the first cathedral, destroyed in 1520, during the revolt of the Castilian cities. Basic construction works were carried out in 1525-1577, and individual fragments were completed until the 18th century.

The cathedral with a 90-meter bell tower is made in the Spanish Gothic style with Renaissance features and became one of the latest Gothic cathedrals Europe: it was erected when Renaissance architecture spread everywhere.

The Cathedral of St. Mary is the main place of celebration of Holy Week: the famous Good Friday procession in Segovia emerges from it.

The decoration and historical attractions of Segovia are the well-preserved Romanesque churches of the 18th century. with elements of the Mudejar style.

SIGHTS OF SEGOVIA

Historical:

■ Ancient Roman aqueduct (second half of the 1st - beginning of the 2nd century).

■ Royal Palace Alcazar (museum, 12th century, main fortifications 1410-1455, significantly rebuilt).

■ Fragments of the fortress wall with the gates of San Cebrian, Santiago and San Andres (VIII-XV centuries).

■ Towers of Losoya (exhibition hall, XIV-XV centuries) and Arias Davila (XV century).

Iconic:

■ Churches of San Lorenzo (XI century Romanesque churches of St. Milena (circa 1120), La Vera Cruz (XII century), San Andres (XII century), La Trinidad (XII century), San Martin (XII century), San (XII century) and San Esteban (beginning of the XIII century).

■ Monasteries of Santa Cruzla Real (1218), Santa Isabel (XVI century el Parral (1447) and San Antonio el Real (mid-XV century).

■ Churches of Cristodel Mercado (XV century) and Santa Eulalia (XII-XVII centuries).

■ Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary (1525-1626).

Architectural:

■ Mansion of Casa de las Cadenas (XIII-XV centuries).

■ Conte Ceste Palace (XV century).

■ Palacio del Marques del Arco (XV century).

■ House of Ayala Bergansa (late 15th century).

■ Plaza Mayor (buildings from the 15th to early 20th centuries).

■ Plateresque Palace Casa delos Picos (XVI century).

■ Town Hall (1622).

■ Former Capuchin monastery (XVII century).

■ Riofrio Palace (1725).

■ Streets Infanta Isabel and Isabel la Catolica.

■ Royal Palace of La Granja (San Ildefonso, 18th century).

■ Teatro Juan Bravo (1918).

Cultural:

■ Museum of Segovia.

■ Cathedral Museum.

■ House-Museum of Antonio Machado.

■ Museum at the Artillery Academy.

■ Esteban Vicente Museum of Contemporary Art.

■ Royal Mint.

■ Robero-Robles Art Museum (Casa Hidalgo mansion, 1500).

■ Provincial Museum (House of the Sun).

■ Zuloaga Museum (former church of San Juan de los Caballeros, 12th century).

■ Royal Academy of History and Arts (Basilica of San Quirce, XII-XIII centuries).

■ Brujería Museum of Witchcraft (dedicated to the history of witchcraft).

■ Gardens of La Merced and Huertos.

■ The revival of Segovia in the 11th century, after it was recaptured from the Moors, is closely associated with the name of the French Count Raymundo of Burgundy (circa 1059-1107), the son-in-law of Alfonso VI, King of Castile and Leon. The crowned father-in-law instructed a relative to settle the lands northwest of the Tagus River. Raimundo developed a vigorous activity, but to settle the same Segovia, the only thing missing were immigrants from the northern regions of the Iberian Peninsula. Then Raimundo ordered to gather as many people as needed in his French possessions, and to hang the protesters. Segovia was settled in the shortest possible time.

■ At the end of the 11th century, when King Alfonso VI of Castile took the city from the Moors, he ordered the fortress wall of Segovia to be rebuilt, since the one built by the Moors could not withstand the siege of the Christians. The total length of the walls increased to 3 km, construction proceeded quickly, and soon there was no longer enough stone. Then, by order of the king, they began to build walls using tombstones
from a Roman cemetery.

■ In the former Jewish quarter of Segovia, which in Spain is called "huderia", there is a monastery of Corpus Christi. Today it belongs to the nuns of the Order of St. Clare.
But until 1410, the main synagogue of Segovia stood on its territory - the largest of the five synagogues in the city before the persecution of the Jews began.

■ At the beginning of the 12th century. Pope Innocent III called on Christians to crusade against the Moorish Almohad dynasty and defend Castile against it. Several knightly orders responded to the call, including the Order of the Holy Sepulcher. In 1208, the order chose Segovia as its residence and built the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (previously attributed to the Templars), now the Church of La Vera Cruz. In 1531 the church came into the possession of the Order of Malta and belongs to it to this day. Since 1919, the Church of La Vera Cruz has been a national monument of Spain.

■ At the end of the 16th century. Segovia's prosperity came to an abrupt end. The reason was inflation: a flow of gold and silver poured into the country from the New World. The cost of producing anything in Spain has risen sharply. And then fabrics made from Spanish wool turned out to be cheaper than those produced in Segovia. In the dispute between the owners of cloth factories and sheep farmers, the latter won,
and the city practically went bankrupt.

■ There are several urban legends about the aqueduct. One tells that it was built not by people, but by giants who left the Earth long ago. Another claims that the creation of the aqueduct was the work of the devil himself. A certain girl got tired of carrying water from a well to her house and offered her soul to Satan in exchange for... running water. There is only one condition: construction must be completed overnight. The devil overestimated his own strength, and the morning rooster crowed before the last stone was installed in the aqueduct. So the girl from Segovia saved her soul and provided the city with running water.

■ During the powerful Lisbon earthquake of 1755, the entire Iberian Peninsula shook, but this had no effect on the aqueduct.

■ The Galley Hall in the Alcazar resembles an ancient ship with a ceiling that looks like an overturned galley. The Hall of Pine Cones is decorated with a carved ceiling, the pattern of which includes gilded pine cones.

■ Patron of Segovia - St. Frutos, literally translated - Saint Fruit (died 715). On October 25, the city celebrates the feast of this saint, songs are sung in his honor in the cathedral, and pastry chefs compete in inventing new desserts in honor of the city’s heavenly protector.

■ Another patron of Segovia is the Virgin of Fuensisla, whose day is September 25th.
IN holidays The statue of the Virgin is moved from the chapel to the cathedral, on the way it is accompanied by an escort of artillery cadets and an orchestra, and in the hands of the Virgin is an officer’s stack. The reason is that in 1916, Virgo Fuensisla received the high military rank of captain general of artillery.

Spain has been famous for its cuisine for many centuries, and bullfighting is an inimitable spectacle. It is in this sunny country that there is a city that can safely be called the pearl of the entire Spanish territory - Segovia.

The history of the city is multifaceted and inimitable. It all started in the 1st century BC, when the rocky hill was chosen by the ancient Romans; later the territory was captured by the Moors. The Visigoths made this area the capital of the episcopacy, and Napoleon almost completely destroyed it. Despite all the strife, Segovia rose from the ashes and developed again.

The modern city began its rapid development in the 20th century, but each culture left its mark on these lands. Thanks to all this, Segovia boasts unique attractions.

Segovia is rich in unique architectural monuments. One of the most ancient, which is considered the pearl of the city, is the Aqueduct. The history of this building, which reaches a height 28 meters, begins in ancient times. But, despite its long history of existence, the monument has been very well preserved to the present day. The high arches, built of granite bricks, amaze with their splendor and grace.

In the 12th century rocky mountain The Alcazar Castle was built. Thanks to its unusual shape, it stands proudly under the Spanish sky. Initially, this splendor was built as a fortress.

But over the course of its history, it has changed many purposes: the Alcazar housed a prison, the residence of the king, and a school that trained artillerymen from its walls. Today tourists can visit the museum located here with the Throne and Royal Halls, as well as the Hall of Ahimeses.

"Casa de los Picos", another name " House with peaks", was built in historical center Segovia at the end of the 15th century. During its existence, the building changed its name. It was called both the “House of Executioners” and the “Jewish House”. The interior is not particularly remarkable, but the facade attracts attention from afar. The thing is that the main facade of the Casa de los Picos is decorated with numerous pyramids, the cones of which are facing visitors.

There are a total of these blocks more than 600 pieces. The creators of this wonderful building assumed that it was these stone pyramids will create the appearance of diamonds. In modern times, there is an art school and an exhibition hall where you can admire works of art.

Location: Calle Juan Bravo - 33.

"St. Mary's Cathedral" is the most beautiful and huge shrine of the city. On its territory there are eighteen chapels, each of which is distinguished by its unique beauty and splendor.

The tall vaults, made in the Gothic style, seem to be strewn with stone lace, and the ninety-meter bell tower is stunning with its grace. During its existence, the cathedral has undergone complete destruction, and a monstrous fire. Therefore, it was rebuilt, completed and reconstructed quite often. There is also a museum attached to the temple where you can see:

1. Clothes.
2. Painting objects.
3. Antique carpets.
4. Jewelry.
5. Books.

This is where the first book printed in Spain is kept.

In the 15th century, the all-powerful royal favorite Marquis de Villena founded the “Monastery of El Parral”, which given time is the last active refuge of the Jeronimite Order community. On the walls of the building you can still see the family coats of arms, and scenic views, surrounding El Parral, suggest corresponding thoughts.

Location: Calle Parral - 2.

The bell tower of the Church of San Esteban can be seen from any corner of the city, since its height more than 50 meters. It is she who is the pride of this shrine. To get to the bell tower you need to go through an exquisite gallery, which has ten arches. In the 18th century the shrine was subjected to terrible fire, but was restored and acquired an even more attractive appearance, and the Spanish-Romanesque style in which the building was built gives the shrine a wonderful appearance.

Previously, this institution was called the “Art Museum”, now the indigenous people also call it the “Casa del Sol Museum”, because it is located in the Casa del Sol building, which in Spanish means “ House of Sun».

Initially, the museum’s collection was created from works of art that were once confiscated from closed monasteries. In modern times, six halls house a variety of extensive exhibitions:

• Geology and its landscape.
• Artifacts from various eras, starting with the primitive era.
• Coins.
• Glass products.
• Enamel products.
• Religious sculptures.
• Pictures on wood.
• Ancient Roman mosaics.

In total, the museum's collections number about one and a half thousand items, and the Zuloaga Museum is its division.

Location: C/ Socorro - 11.

In the architectural monument where the “Church of San Juan de los Caballeros” was previously located, the “Zuloaga Museum” has been opened. The building itself is beautiful historical monument with high arches and slender columns. The museum's exhibition is dedicated to the work of some representatives of the Zuloaga family.

In the collections you can see unique frescoes and paintings, sculptures and ceramics. The museum is surrounded by an incomparable park where you can take a walk or take a photo shoot.

Esteban Vicente created paintings, sculptures and drawings in the style of abstract expressionism. After his death, the master bequeathed all his works to be transferred to Spain, despite the fact that he spent almost his entire life in the USA. E. Vicente also specified that his works of art be placed in a specially created museum. Therefore, the “E. Vicente Museum of Contemporary Art” was opened in Segovia, where more than a hundred works by the master are exhibited.

You can have a great time relaxing, taking unique photos and admiring the variety of plants in the “Garden of La Merced”, which is one of the best in the city. Well-groomed paths, walks along which will not only provide refreshing shade and clean air, but will also reward you with a magnificent aroma. Among the flora planted in the park, there are some that can only be seen here.

Arriving in Segovia, tourists plunge into a medieval fairy tale. Rest in this small town will be educational and memorable, and since numerous attractions are located in close proximity to each other, hiking will give you the warmth of the Spanish sun.

Segovia is an ancient Castilian city on the rocky plateau of the Meseta. It is located 90 km from Madrid in the largest region of Spain - Castile and Leon. The city has preserved a unique atmosphere of the past; echoes of ancient times - Roman, Visigothic, Arabic, Spanish - can be heard in the ancient streets. Since 1985, Segovia has been included in the UNESCO register.

Segovia (photo: Jenny)

- an ancient Castilian city on the rocky plateau of the Meseta. It is located 90 km from Madrid in the largest region of Spain - Castile and Leon. The city has preserved a unique atmosphere of the past; echoes of ancient times - Roman, Visigothic, Arabic, Spanish - can be heard in the ancient streets. Since 1985, Segovia has been included in the UNESCO register.

A little history

Segovia (photo: Ismael Gómez Tena)

Traces of Celtic settlements were discovered on the rocks near the Alcazar fortress. Under the ancient Romans, who lived here in the 1st century BC, Segovia became an important economic center; under the Visigoths it was the capital of the episcopate. In 714 - 1085 the city belonged to the Arabs, was recaptured from them by Alfonso VI and after 1088 began to grow and be revived. In the 17th century, the city experienced several terrible epidemics; in the 19th century it suffered the invasion of the Napoleonic army. A new economic and cultural rise of Segovia began in the middle of the 20th century.

How to get to Segovia?

Travel from Madrid by train to Segovia Guiomar station. The trip will take 30 minutes. and will cost €12.90. The Segovia Guiomar stop is 5 km from the city, so you need to take a bus or taxi.

Map of Segovia attractions

Sights of Segovia

Quite a few monuments from different eras have been preserved in the city; one might even say that almost the entire old part of the city is one large open-air museum. Business card The city is built about 3000 years ago.

Segovia (photo: Todor Kamenov)

Decoration of the historical part of Segovia - (Alcázar de Segovia). Beautiful Palace stands on the top of a cliff, and is connected to the city by secret underground passages. The Alcazar has existed since ancient Roman times. Over the years, he changed his appearance and name more than once. It was an Arab fortress, royal residence, prison and military school. Since the middle of the 20th century, the Alcazar has been declared a museum.

Segovia (photo: Jeff)

The most outstanding temple of Segovia - gigantic late Gothic (Catedral of Santa Maria de Segovia).

The city has several more churches and monasteries that have existed since the Middle Ages: Monastery of El Parral(1447); Church of St. Millena (Iglesia de San Millán)(1120); Church of La Vera Cruz (Iglesia de la Vera Cruz), founded in the 12th century. Templars; Church of St. Stephen (Iglesia de San Esteban) with the tallest bell tower in Spain.

In city museums you can see works of old masters, modern exhibitions, expositions historical heritage Segovia:

• Museum of Segovia (La Casa Del Sol)
• Cathedral Museum (Museo Catedralicio)
• House-Museum of Antonio Machado (Casa-Museo de Antonio Machado)
• Museum of the Artillery Academy (Museo Específico de la Academia de artillería)

• Museum of Contemporary Art Esteban Vicente (Museo De Arte Contemporáneo Esteban Vicente)
• Museum of Soloaga (Museo Zuloaga)
• Royal Mint (Real Casa de Moneda de Segovia)
• Museum Robero-Robles (Museo Rodera-Robles)

Events, holidays, events

Segovia (photo: 59_Javier Román)

Many bright, truly Castilian holidays are held in Segovia:
The most public events occur in June: holidays Saint John and Saint Peter (Fiestas de San Juan y San Pedro)- These are ancient folk festivals that have existed since the 15th century. On the occasion of the holiday, various parades, concerts, and bullfights are held.

In August, residents celebrate the festival of San Lorenzo (Fiesta de San Lorenzo), in September - D Day of the Virgin of Fuencisla (Fiesta de la Virgen de la Fuencisla), October 25th is a holiday Fiesta San Frutos, in honor of the city's patron saint, who heals injuries and hernia. The celebration is accompanied by choral singing in the cathedral.

Food, drinks, entertainment

Local restaurants specialize in traditional national cuisine. Segovia is famous for its meat delicacies, sausages, suckling pigs and lambs. Fish dishes They cook here from trout caught in mountain rivers, vegetables are grown in local fields, sweets are made according to old monastery recipes. Try it at the Limón y Menta pastry shop (Calle de la Infanta Isabel, 2) Segovian punch (ponche segoviano)- This is a sponge cake with lemon cream covered with marzipan.

Segovian wines can be bought in local stores and tasted in bars. For those interested in the technology of producing spirits, a route has been opened in the tourism center of Segovia "Whisky Road".

A program has been created for travelers with children Aventuras en Familias. "Family Adventures" is a special municipal family project. Families can combine outdoor recreation with visits to special farm schools, historical places, archaeological excavations.

Neighborhoods of Segovia

Around Segovia there are many medieval towns and villages with interesting and well-preserved castles:

Segovia (photo: ymeng00)

12 km from Segovia in the city La Granja de San Ildefonso you can see the former summer residence of the Spanish kings - Palace of Real. The palace park is designed in the Versailles style and is decorated with 28 fountains located throughout the territory.

Segovia (photo: Enric G. Jordá)

It is interesting to stroll along the ancient streets with medieval mansions in the town Pedraza, located 40 km from Segovia. On the edge of the city stands alone the same name Castillo de Pedraza. Incredible concerts take place in Pedraza on the first and second Saturdays of July Conciertos de las Velas. During the concert, electric lights throughout the city are turned off and live music sounds under the light of candles.

Segovia (photo: Rios Valles)

In the town Turégano, located 30 km north of Segovia there is a 15th century castle. – Castillo de Turégano. Built within the formidable walls of the fortress is the Romanesque Church of St. Miguel. Despite the fact that the castle-church complex has not very well preserved its original appearance, it uniquely adorns the main square of Turegano - Plaza Mayor.

Segovia (photo: amadorgs)

There is another beautiful castle in the city Coca, which is 50 km from Segovia. Castillo de Coca It is made of brick, fortified with a double fortress wall and a deep dry moat. It is considered one of the most beautiful examples of art made in the Gothic-Moorish style.

Segovia, Spain

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Segovia is the capital of the autonomy of Castile and Leon at the foot of the Sierra Guadarrama, located just 90 km from Madrid. The whole of Segovia is included in the UNESCO list thanks to the famous aqueduct, the fairy-tale Alcazar castle and ancient Romanesque churches from the 12th century. In no other city in Europe can you find so many monuments of the Romanesque style.

You can see the beauty of the city in this video:

Local cuisine attracts with the most tender baked suckling pig with red wine. Residents of Madrid enjoy spending their weekends in Segovia, feasting on local delicacies at non-metropolitan prices.

How to get there

Photo: Detailed map Segovia with attractions

It is very easy to get to Segovia from Madrid:

• High-speed train – about 30 minutes, 13-25 € one way;
• Train – about 2 hours, from 8.5 €;
• By bus (la Sepulvedana, every 30 minutes) from Moncloa metro station - about 1 hour, from 9 €.

We advise you to choose a bus trip, since the trip by high speed train will take you to Segovia Guiomar station, which is quite far from the city (5 km). But the bus station where the bus from Madrid arrives is located in the city center (not far from the aqueduct).

When to go

Segovia has hot summers and fairly cold and dry winters. The hottest months are July and August (30 degrees), and the most comfortable months are from April to June and from September to October. The months with the least rainfall are June-September, when only 2-3 rainy days may fall during the entire period. The rainiest months are May and October.

Story

Excavations suggest that 1 thousand years BC. The Celts lived on the territory of the city, who gave it the name Segobriga, which means “city of victory.” In the 2nd-1st century BC. Segovia was occupied by the Romans, and flourished due to the mining of special lapis lazuli, from which windows were made at that time. The Romans left behind a grandiose aqueduct that supplied water to the city.

In the 8th century, the Moorish period began, and Segovia became part of the Cordoba Caliphate. The city, liberated from the Moors, served as a royal residence from the 12th century, for which the Alcazar was erected on the top of the mountain.

In the 16th century, Segovia flourished due to the well-established production of woolen fabrics. But inflation, provoked by cheap gold and silver from the New World, caused a crisis in the 17th century, and epidemics caused a reduction in the population to 8 thousand people (from 27 thousand). Segovia is now one of the most attractive tourist cities Spain and a UNESCO heritage site.

Attractions

Photo: Alcazar Castle in Segovia

The Alcazar of Segovia is different from other Spanish castles - its round pointed towers are like masts, and the castle itself resembles a ship. Today, the Alcazar operates as a museum, where 11 halls and the Tower of Juan II are available to tourists. This fairytale castle became the prototype for Disney's Sleeping Princess Castle.

The 12th century La Vera Cruz Church was founded by the Knights Templar. Its foundation has the shape of a 12-gon, which is very rare in architecture. Located on the other side of Eresma, it is located a little away from other monuments. On the other hand, it is located next to the Alcazar, so it can be included in the itinerary.

Photo: Church of La Vera Cruz in Segovia

The 12th-century Church of San Andres is located right on the way from the Alcazar to the Cathedral. It is noteworthy that the Mudejar bell tower and the church façade have survived to this day in their original appearance.

Segovia Cathedral Santa Maria de Segovia) from the 16th century - a huge structure on the Plaza Mayor with a length of 105 meters, a width of 50 meters and a naves height of 33 meters (the bell tower is 88 meters). It represents the last Gothic note in Spanish architecture, since it was built at a time when the Renaissance style had already conquered Europe. The interior decoration creates the impression of a palace, and the beauty of the altar made of jasper and marble delights.

Photo: Cathedral of Segovia

The 12th century Church of San Esteban, although closed to visitors, is attractive because it has a very high bell tower of 56 meters.

Ancient Roman aqueduct of the 1st century. AD - This engineering miracle, which was added to the UNESCO list in 1985. The aqueduct impresses with its ideal proportions and the feeling of lightness of its structure, although it is 29 meters high, 818 meters long and built of natural stone. 20,400 granite blocks forming 167 arches were laid without the use of mortar, relying on the force of gravity.

The 15th century Casa de los Picos is surrounded by pyramids, which attracts tourists. There are many interesting palaces in the area: Los del Rio, Torreajero and the mansion of Count Alpuente.

Photo: Picos House in Segovia

Iglesia de Santos Justo y Pastor) from the 12th century is a charming example of Romanesque architecture with a special charm created by unique ancient paintings. The temple is named after the two children Eustace and Pastor, who were executed in 306 by order of Diocletian for their Christian faith.

Photo: Church of St. Eustace and Parson

Church of San Salvador near San Justo, built in the 12th and 13th centuries, destroyed and rebuilt in the 16th century. Surrounded by cypress trees, the church has beautiful architecture, inside there is a Romanesque font and valuable paintings. Here you can take good panoramic photos of the city.

The 13th-century Church of San Clemente, near Piazza de la Tierra, is a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture with strong walls, stone vaults and arches. Inside there are huge columns, a modest altar with a crucifix and beautiful stained glass windows.

The 12th-century Church of San Millan (Iglesia de San Millan) is one of the best-preserved examples of Romanesque architecture, built by the Aragonese king Alfonso I the Warrior.

Photo: Church of San Millan in Segovia

The Monastery of Santa Cruz la Real, dating back to the early 13th century, stands slightly apart from other attractions. But the building that now houses the university is worthy of attention, especially its elegant main entrance.

The Monastery of Santa Maria del Parral is located on the outskirts of the city. The monastery of the Jeronimite Order combines Gothic, Plateresque and Mudejar.

Museums

Tourists can visit numerous museums in Segovia: the Casa del Sol Museum, the Royal Mint, the Ignacio Zuloaga Museum, the E. Vincente Museum of Contemporary Art, the Alcazar, the Cathedral Museum and others.

Attractions in the area

Photo: Royal residence in La Granja de San Ildefonso

La Granja de San Ildefonso is a town 11 km from Segovia, home to a former royal residence with a huge Versailles-style park with 28 fountains.

Pedraza is a medieval town 40 km from Segovia. It is worth visiting in the first half of July, when there are concerts with live music and romantic candles.

Coca is a town 50 km from Segovia with a charming Mudejar castle, considered one of the most beautiful in Spain.

Photo: Castle in Coca

One of the best viewing platforms and photo spots is the Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos near the Alcazar. Here you can take a daytime shot of the castle and a stunning evening shot of the castle backlit. Observation deck Canaleja (Mirador de la Canaleja) is located near the Cathedral and offers wonderful views of the city.

Shopping

The best place for shopping is Calle Juan Bravo, where there are plenty of shops with magnets (2€), cups, postcards (about 0.4€), etc. Souvenir ceramic tiles and plates are especially popular. Stylish bags and other accessories can be found at Plaza de la Rubia. For real fashion shopping, it is still better to go to Madrid.

Purchasing good products low prices can be carried out by the Eroski trading network. Here you can buy food for traveling around the city, as well as as a gift from Spain to your loved ones.

Things to do in Segovia

10 cases in Segovia:

1. Walk through the huge arches of a Roman aqueduct.
2. Try suckling pig in the restaurant right under the Meson de Candido aqueduct.
3. Admire the scale of the Cathedral.
4. Visit the fabulous Alcazar and its museum.
5. Explore all the Romanesque churches of the Old Town.
6. Take a spectacular photo with a backlit view of the Alcazar.
7. Treat yourself to Segovia's signature sponge cake with marzipan.
8. Buy a ceramic souvenir ceramic plate for your collection.
9. View the 12-sided church of La Vera Cruz, built by the Templars.
10. Go to La Granja de San Ildefonso with the royal residence or Coca with the most beautiful castle in Spain.

What and where to eat

Photo: Roast suckling pig

The “star” of the cuisine of this region is roasted suckling pig, which melts in your mouth. There is even a tradition of cutting it with a clay plate, immediately breaking it, proving how delicate this product is. You can taste excellent pig in the family restaurant Meson de Candido next to the aqueduct. But if you’re not too lazy to look, then find this place – EL FIGÓN DE LOS COMUNEROS.

Also try the Catalan soup (sopa catalana) and large beans with sausages and pork innards. All this and many other Castilian dishes can be ordered at the Casa Duque restaurant, which has its own farm.

A traditional dessert in Segovia is Ponche de Segovia (marzipan sponge cake). Stop by Ponche segoviano with a huge selection of desserts and delicious coffee at reasonable prices.

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The mysterious Alcazar Castle has attracted tourists for centuries. In 1953, it became a museum; today, research is being carried out on the labyrinths connecting the palace with the city. Observation deck at the very high tower gives the opportunity to observe delightful pictures of the city landscapes below. Each new owner of the Alcazar rebuilt it in accordance with his tastes. Being the seat of the Spanish kings, after moving the capital to Madrid, it became a prison for 200 years.

In the Middle Ages, Segovia was traditionally surrounded by fortress walls. Today we can see several fragments of an ancient wall from the 15th century. By the end of the Middle Ages, Segovia became the main industrial center producing clothing and wool products. The architectural ensemble of the city is finally being formed.

The 16th century leaves a model in the city gothic architecture- Cathedral. The temple museum tells the story of Flemish and Spanish art of the 16th-18th centuries.

Napoleon's army plundered the city, destroying many historical monuments.

Segovia is rich not only in ancient buildings, but also in glorious, unique gardens. One of them is called "Garden of La Merced". He was located outside the city wall. Even those who are not interested flora, will be delighted with the plants he sees in the garden. Many specimens of the garden are found only here. The Alcazar garden, where the first tree was planted in 1816, also deserves your attention. The fire of 1862 destroys it completely. Only after 20 years are trees planted again, which even after 2 centuries amaze with their splendor.

The second half of the 19th century brings the city the desired calm and marks the beginning of prosperity. All the troubles and tragic moments are left behind. Today the city claims to be " Capital of Culture Europe".

Segovia is also rich in culinary masterpieces: roasted young pig “cochinillo”, “morcilla” (blood sausage in all possible variations), bean soup “judiones de la granja”.

Sweets prepared according to the recipes of the nuns will not leave anyone indifferent, even those on a diet. The famous “ponche segoviano” (sweet dessert) is in unprecedented demand among tourists and local residents. Many of these "goodies" are taken home.

Difficult choice of the most important among the most important (what to see)

Start your journey with main square Segovia - Plaza Mayor. It is from here that the path to many of the city’s attractions begins. Among the buildings of the 15th-20th centuries, it will be difficult not to highlight the “Dame of the Cathedrals”. As you walk through the 11 halls of the Alcazar, be sure to look into the Hall of the Kings and the Hall of the Rope Belt.

The decoration of the churches, internal (pictured on the right) and external, will make you stop your journey for a few minutes to enjoy the beauty of the galleries, arches, brick patterns, unique paintings by masters, ancient icons, etc.

The monasteries are not far behind in their uniqueness and historical value. In the monastery of San Antonio Real you can see carved wooden ceilings in the Mudejar and Nazari styles. The Marquis of Villen and his wife are buried in this monastery.

The ceremony of the Knights Templar in the Chapel de La Vera Cruz, built in the shape of a circle, shines with splendor, floral Gothic.

A visit to the Segovia Museum will provide complete information about the culture, economic development city ​​and region, presenting ancient and unique exhibits and finds.