Discovering the Rich History, Culture, and Cuisine of this Enchanting Spanish Town
The famous town with the Spanish aqueduct outside of Madrid is Segovia. The aqueduct is one of the most iconic landmarks in Segovia and is a well-preserved example of Roman engineering.
The aqueduct was built in the 1st century AD and had 167 arches over 800 meters. Segovia is located about 90 kilometers northwest of Madrid and is a popular day trip destination from the capital city.
In addition to the aqueduct, Segovia is known for its historic old town, medieval castle, and stunning Gothic cathedral.
Here are eight great things to see and do in Segovia:
- The Roman Aqueduct: This impressive structure symbolizes Segovia and is over 2,000 years old. It’s a must-see attraction and an excellent spot for taking photos.
- Alcázar of Segovia: This medieval fortress was built in the 12th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks of Segovia. It has been a royal palace, a prison, and a military academy throughout history.
- Segovia Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is one of the last Gothic cathedrals built in Spain. It boasts a beautiful altarpiece and is home to many works of art.
- Plaza Mayor: This charming square is the center of Segovia’s social life and is surrounded by picturesque buildings. It’s an excellent spot for people-watching and enjoying a coffee or wine.
- Casa de los Picos: This historic building is famous for its unique façade covered in diamond-shaped stones. It now serves as a cultural center and hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
- Jewish Quarter: This historic neighborhood is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, and it’s home to many beautiful buildings and landmarks. It’s a great place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
- Santa Cruz la Real Convent: This former monastery is now a university and boasts a beautiful cloister and chapel. It’s open to visitors and is a great place to learn about the history of Segovia.
- La Muralla (The Wall): The city walls are another important landmark of the city, and they offer great views over the surrounding countryside. Walking along the wall is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Did you know?
Segovia is home to one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world, which was built in the 1st century AD and stretches for over 800 meters.
A little history:
Segovia is a historic city located in the central part of Spain, about 90 kilometers north of Madrid. The city has a rich and diverse history dating back to pre-Roman times, and various civilizations have inhabited it over the centuries.
The city played an important role during the Roman era as a strategic military outpost and an important center for commerce and trade. The impressive Roman aqueduct, which still stands today, was built to supply water to the city.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, it was ruled by various Visigothic and Muslim kingdoms, and later it became part of the Christian kingdoms during the Reconquista. In the 15th century, the town became the residence of the Castilian monarchs and was also an important center for the textile and wool industries.
During the Spanish Golden Age in the 16th and 17th centuries, Segovia flourished culturally and artistically, with many notable poets, writers, and artists calling the city home. In the 20th century, it became a popular tourist destination and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 for its rich cultural heritage and impressive architecture, including the Roman aqueduct, the Alcázar castle, and the Gothic cathedral.
