Segovia, Spain is known for its many Roman style churches, ancient architecture, winding pedestrian-only streets, and charming sidewalk cafes. All of this is completely enclosed by a medieval wall, with one of the largest and most well-preserved ancient aqueducts in the world, leading into the city. This beautiful historical town of 50,000 residents is located thirty minutes–and a world away–from Spain’s bustling Capital, Madrid.
Segovia’s Romanesque architecture tells us this city was, at one time, populated by the Romans. Then in the 5th century the Visigoths came in, and a few hundred years later the Moors invaded. Strangely enough, neither the Visigoths nor the Moors left their mark on the city’s architecture. The 14th century was a time of great prosperity for Segovia but that prosperity ended with the unsuccessful uprising of the Comuneros against King Charles V in 1521. After this the economic center moved toward Seville, which accounts for the fact that Segovia has not only kept its small town heritage, but its historical landmarks have been remarkably preserved.
There is much to do in Segovia and its rich history makes it the perfect place for sightseeing. Segovia has the most churches per capita in all of Europe. The Gothic style Cathedral of Segovia started construction in 1525 and was finished in 1768. This huge cathedral contains paintings, tapestries and books dating back to the 15th century. Near the Cathedral sits the beautiful Alcazar Castle which was an inspiration for the Cinderella Castle in Disneyland and is the place where Isabel was crowned queen of Castile. The Museum of Segovia is not to be missed, with Roman tools, weapons, Visagoth jewelry and other relics of the past. It also offers animations of how the Roman aqueduct carried water through the city. The Segovia Mint is the oldest manufacturing plant in the world and the oldest industrial building in all of Spain.
Along with its excellent sightseeing opportunities, Segovia has many events and festivals throughout the year. The Titirimundi festival in May features puppet theater to entertain people of all ages. There is a folk music festival at the end of June, and the International Festival of Segovia offers music and dance performances–also in July.
Segovia has a Mediterranean Continental climate. Because of its high altitude, temperatures can drop to below freezing, with a minimum temperature of about 5 degrees F in the winter. The summers are warm, with temperatures sometimes rising to over 90 degrees F. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Segovia when the countryside is at its most beautiful. Whether touring the world famous ancient aqueduct, viewing the tremendous architecture, or simply enjoying the natural beauty and majestic mountains, Segovia, Spain offers an experience you will never forget.
