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 Segovia |
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This city was founded around the Iberian era. Known as one the most dramatic and unique locations in Spain , Segovia is to be found on top of an outcrop with a spectacular view of the converging Rio Clamores and Rio Eresma .
In 80 BC, Segovia was taken by Rome . Subsequently, the Moors occupied the city before totally returning it back to the Christians. In short, this city has a colorful history behind it.
When the Muslims occupied the city, they left a successful textile and wool industry. However, the business slowed down during the late 16 th century.
Segovia is a favorite location of the Castilian royalty. At the Iglesia de San Miguel , Isabel I s coronation was held.
When the city became affiliated with Juan Bravo and his rebellious Comuneros in 1520, Segovia s popularity weakened.
It was only until the mid-1960s that the city s tourism and industry blossomed to its fullest. Today, this city is an exceptionally prevalent choice for Madrid locals during weekends. It is famous for its Catalan cuisine - with specialties such as judiones de La Granja, a mouthwatering bean dish, and cochinillo asado, a delicious suckling pig recipe.
If you are planning to visit Segovia , the best way to travel and explore the city is by foot.
SEGOVIA FACTS
* Population = 40,000
* Journey Time = more or less 2 hours
* Nearest train station = Chamartin
* Car Travel = N 603 or N IV roads
Located in one of the most picturesque areas in Spain , Segovia is home to numerous stunning buildings with various artworks by local and famous artists.
If you wish to inquire about guided tours in Segovia , you may visit their tourist office at Plaza Mayor or contact them via phone at 91 921 43 03 or 34.
On the other hand, if you prefer to explore the city s beauty on your own, here is a list of the recommended places you should not miss.
Acueducto Romano - Roman Aqueduct
Location: Center of Segovia
This 894-meter and 92-feet building is made of granite and supported by approximately 163 arches - many of which are two-tiered. It was built around the 1 st and 2 nd century AD using local materials. Constructed even without cement or mortar, it originally stretched 15 kilometers.
As time passed by, so did several alterations of the aqueduct including the installation of a recent pipeline and the replacement of the Christian image into a 16 th century Hercules statue. The Acueducto Romano is still the source of water of the town.
The highlight of your Roman Aqueduct visit is the climbing up to the top and taking a breathtaking peek of the old town walls.
Cathedral
Also known as the Queen of Cathedrals because of its delightful appearance, its constructed started only in 1525. It was considered the last grand construction of a Gothic-styled building in Spain . However, it was only sanctified in 1768.
This Segovia Cathedral was formerly taller than its height today. Unfortunately, when a lightning struck the main tower in 1614, they did not renovate it, and kept it as a part of its history.
The interior may lack historical and religious decorations, but it has cloisters that were transferred from a cathedral that burnt down.
The cathedral is open daily from 9:30 am to 7 pm during summer seasons and 9 am to 6 pm during winter months.
For your travel to be worth it, you can also visit the neighbor cathedral that displays religious artworks and relics such as 17 th century Gobelin tapestries.
Convento de San Antonio El Real - Royal Convent of St. Antonio
Location: Segovia , Madrid
Formerly, the Royal Convent of St. Antonio was home to Enrique IV during summer seasons.
Today, it is home to the Gothic-styled Mudejar church, which displays extraordinary artisanal ceilings.
The Convento de San Antonio El Real is open from Monday to Fridays starting at 4 pm to 6 pm only. There is a small admission fee.
Iglesia de la Vera Cruz - Church of the True Cross
Location: Segovia Valley adjacent to the Alcazar
Based on a plan of the Jerusalem Holy Sepulchre church, this building was built by the Knights Templar. Constructed around the 13 th century, this building has an architectural design shaped with twelve sides.
According to reputation, the knights were assigned to watch over the true cross inside the circular nave is this site.
However, this religious relic was transferred in the Zamarramala church located at a small village a few distance away from Segovia . It can only be publicly seen during Easter.
In 1950, the Iglesia de la Vera Cruz was re-established by the Maltese Order.
The Church of the True Cross is open every Tuesdays to Sundays, with a reasonably priced admission fee, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm and 3:30 to 7 pm. During winter and autumn seasons, it only opens until 7 pm.
Monasterio del Parral - Monastery of El Parral
Location: Segovia
This monastery was founded in 1459. It is famous for the Gregorian chants heard every Sunday noon. Another highlight of this church is its remarkable Gothic cloisters.
Unlike other churches where you pay an admission fee, the Monastery of El Parral welcomes only those visitors who ring their bell.
Monasterio del Parral is open on Mondays to Saturdays from 10 am to 12:30 and 4 to 6:30 pm. On Sundays, it is only open publicly around 10 to 11:30 am.
Museo de Holografia - Museum of Holography
Location: Calle de Daoiz
This unique museum is particularly dedicated to hologram study and exhibits. This is best for children of all ages and for adults who appreciate all kinds of art.
The Museum of Hologram is open, with a small charge, on Tuesdays to Sunday from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm and 4:30 to 8:30 pm.
Casa de Sol - The Sun House
Location: Calle de Socorro
Formerly the site of a butcher house, this building is home to the Museo de Segovia (Segovia Museum). Inside the museum, you are privileged to view restricted exhibits from all eras.
The Sun House is open every Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm and 5 to 7 pm. During Sundays, it opens from 10 am to 2 pm only.
Casa y Museo de Antonio Machado - House and Museum of Antonio Machado
Location: Calle de los Desemparados
Antonio Machado is a 20 th century poet famous all over Spain. This site was his home around 1919 to 1932. Today, you will find various displays of the poet s written scribbles, poetry and other personal belongings.
The House and Museum of Antonio Machado is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 4 pm to 7pm. However, if you visit the museum during winter or autumn, it is only open until 6 pm.
El Alcazar - The Alcazar
Location: Western end of Segovia
The Alcazar is believed to have been equipped with weapons since it was specifically built by the Romans for their watchtower.
In between the mid-13 th and 14 th centuries, El Alcazar was reconstructed and expanded. Its neighboring 12 th century stone castle was knocked down in the process.
When it increased in size, so did its popularity. During the 13 th century, parliaments typically assembled in this site.
Royalties held their events here - including the residence of Isabel I in 1474 when she was crowned as Castile queen and the 1570 marriage of King Felipe II and Anne of Austria.
Around the 16 th century, the King John II tower was turned into a political top-security prison.
In 1862, the Alcazar was burned down and was redesigned into a fairy-tale castle around 1880.
Built in an environmentally friendly location, while influenced by its rock outcrop where it stands, it has an outstanding view of all sides of the city. The dreamy castle is open daily, with a moderately priced admission fee, from 10 am to 7 pm. During the winter season, it is only open until 6 pm.
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