Segovia is a city two hours away from Madrid. It is known for its beautifully structured Roman aqueduct that stands tall and runs over nine miles long. It is praised for its preservation of the aqueduct. This aqueduct is even more impressive to see in real life than just the photo you can see here. We took a day trip to Segovia so we didn't have the opportunity to explore all the areas of this beautiful city, but here is a quick itinerary of what we did.
We were lucky to visit Segovia during the San Frutos festival. This festival celebrates Saint Fructus, a saint that is honored by those in the Western Rite Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. It is always celebrated on the night of October 24th and the day of October 25th. That morning of the 25th was when we visited which meant we had the honor of listening to the traditional hymn or carol to San Frutos at the Catedral de Segovia. The architecture of this cathedral is absolutely stunning. The way the light shines through the stained glasses is a sight you don't want to miss.
After the ceremony, we proceeded to visit the Alcázar de Segovia. The first mentions of Alcázar de Segovia began around 1120, however, King Alfonso VI was the person that shaped and formed the foundation of how it looks today. Successors after King Alfonso VI have done major remodels on it since then. Admission is only €5.50 and you can explore the gorgeous castle. Fun fact: it is claimed that Cinderella’s castle is modeled after this and the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.
The interior is also beautiful and the landscape of the city from the castle is worth the view. Below are some photos of items in the castle. The well here reminded me of the one in Snow White. Depending on the sites you search, there are both claims that the castle in the film Cinderella and the castle in Snow White was inspired by the fortress. Personally, I really think the Alcazar de Segovia resembles the Snow White castle. The wishing well right here really gives it away, but we'll never really know!
After we toured the fortress, we were ready for lunch. After much deliberation, we went to eat at La Casona de San Martin. I do recommend eating here, it was delicious. I ordered the Segovia special which came with wine, a traditional Segovian soup- Judiones de la Granja, famous entre- Cochinillo, and dessert-Ponche Segoviano. The meal was delicious. Cochinillo is Segovia's famous suckling pig. My friends ordered croquetas and patatas bravas there and also said their orders were delicious.
The day was unfortunately done after this meal. Although short, the time in Segovia was very fun. I will definitely spend more time in this city next time I visit.
What is your favorite place to visit in Segovia? What are the places I missed and where should I go next time?