Built in 1120, the famous Alcazar of Segovia has stood the test of time. From its humble beginnings as a castle, it eventually was transformed over the next three centuries into a grand and impressive palace. From hosting the Cortes, to holding the Crown of Castiles’ archive, and later the Royal College of Artillery the palace, and Segovia, have played a major role in history. Today it is a museum, not only of the era of which was built, but also the 900 years of history since. With such a rich background, it has appealed to many visitors, such as historians, weapon and military enthusiasts, clerics, architects, and anyone interested in exploring other cultures. This a unique opportunity to see exactly what Spain has to offer. Students and professors seeking to study abroad will not see history, but also experience it as the beauty of gothic and medieval art continues to inspire future historians and artists. Just as it did with Walt Disney, in “Snow White” and Orson Welles, in “Chimes at Midnight.”

Exploring the Palace, Artillery Museum, and Tower of John II allows visitors to see unique and eloquent art of the past. These can be art pieces, the architecture, and even entire rooms. Such as the Hall of the Kings, which contains a statue of each King of Castille prior to King Phillip II, each created in beautiful detail, inscriptions, and represented in order of their reign.

As the Palace is also home to the Artillery Museum, there many artifacts contained in the armory. Such faithful recreations of Medieval armor based on the original source, King Charles’ Crossbow, and the Gallop Cannon. Each with informed description detailing it usage and history.

These are just some of the artistic histories that awaits in the halls of the palace of Alcazar, just as did the countless Kings and Queens of Castile that once called it home. By studying abroad, you gain a love of seeing and exploring the culture and the history of Segovia, that’ll lead you to truly appreciate traveling and learning. So, why not explore the pages of history and build upon your great opportunity!

“Fortaleza de Los Reyes de Castilla.” Alcázar de Segovia, Accessed November 18, 2023. https://www.alcazardesegovia.com/. 

As we all know a large part of Spanish history is catholicism. So when you are visiting Segovia you might want to experience some of this catholic history yourself. Or maybe you are just a visiting student who wants to know some interesting places that you can do your worshiping. 

The most notable place of worship you could visit is the Segovia Cathedral. It is a beautiful Gothic-style cathedral. In fact, it was the last Gothic cathedral constructed. They hold mass at 10 on most days or 11 and 12:30 on Sunday if you would like to join. However, if you are not one to worship but your friend dragged you here there are other things that you can do in the Cathedral. For example, you could go to the art museum located in the basement of the Cathedral. It contains numerous impressive religious-inspired artworks. Like the Triptych of Descent by Ambrosius Benson a massive 3-panel painting depicting Jesus being taken down from the cross. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy you could always walk around and admire the impressive architecture which composes the Cathedral (Which I wish I could include a picture of however the storage on this blog is already full :(. ). Which fun fact mostly had to be rebuilt after the Revolt of the Comuneros in 1520. So when you are admiring the architecture you are not only getting a good view you are also experiencing history. Isn’t that fun! Lastly, you could visit the Bell Tower which does offer guided tours if you want a more structured activity. However, the quite possibly best aspect of the Bell Tower is the view it will give you. Standing 288 feet tall it’s one of the tallest places in the city allowing you great views of the entire city allowing you to maybe spot the place you are staying or discover the place you would like to visit next. 

Another place of worship you could visit is the Iglesia de la Vera Cruz or the Church of the True Cross located just on the outskirts of the city. Even though it is much smaller than the Segovia Cathedral and was used as a place to store cattle briefly in the 20th century it is a no less important place. It’s so important it was declared a Spanish Cultural Heritage in 1919. There is some debate about what group constructed the Church of the True Cross. For the longest time it was believed to be constructed by the knights templar, a military branch of the catholic church, however recently it has become more likely that it was built by the Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Either way still a group of pedigree is responsible for this church. Inside the church, you can see some artwork tracing back to as old as 1208. However, it is not all preserved due to the building being abandoned off and on since 1844 till it was named a cultural heritage site.  If any of this sounds interesting to you can visit on any day other than Monday or Tuesday at 10:30, 1:30, or 4:00. 

However, Segovia isn’t all about catholicism. It also has some places for fans of the old testament in the Old Main synagogue. This synagogue was built in the 14th century. However, after the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492 it was converted into first a church and then a convent. It was destroyed in 1899 by a fire but it has been rebuilt since then so you can visit it.

If any of you reading are interested in reading any further here is where you can find out more.

Segovia Cathedral:

https://longwooduniversity.on.worldcat.org/oclc/9523266942

https://catedralsegovia.es/

Iglesia de la Vera Cruz:

https://www.unaventanadesdemadrid.com/otras-comunidades/segovia-iglesia-de-la-vera-cruz.html

Old main synagogue

https://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/13391-segovia#1399

Beautiful architecture can be seen throughout Segovia, from its Gothic Cathedral, Castle, and walls to more modern museums and homes, to nature’s landscape, there is a lot to explore. So why not see it all? Studying abroad creates unique opportunities not only to explore other cultures, but also other environments. Which unique activities are specifically tailored to, such as the Segovia Balloon Ride. This exciting adventure allows visitors to see the amazing sights from a bird’s eye view, where many gain a new appreciation for the stunning new angles of the city. Many of which are only visible from the air. With purchase, you will also receive a complimentary breakfast, and even an optional landing in the Capitol of Madrid. Whether if it’s your first day or last, the sight of the Roman Aqueduct and the Gothic Castle showcases centuries of Spanish history and is truly a sight to behold.

Aerodifusión. “2023 Segovia Balloon Ride.” Tripadvisor. Accessed November 18, 2023. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g187494-d11467556-Segovia_Balloon_Ride-Segovia_Province_of_Segovia_Castile_and_Leon.html.

Hot air balloon ride over Segovia 2023 - viator. Accessed November 19, 2023. https://www.viator.com/tours/Segovia/Ballon-Ride-over-Segovia-Castle/d26564-12703P1.