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Published: October 10th 2008
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Alcazar Castle
By far the best castle I have seen so far! After enjoying some of the great historic sights of Spain, I ended up at probably one of the best known sites, Segovia. This city contains an amazing amount of history and culture. Overall, the experience of Segovia really gave me a true taste of what Spain has to offer. My beginning into Segovia was a bit too adventurous for my taste though.
After leaving Avila and making it to the entrance of Segovia, it was getting rather late. My only mission at this worn out point was to find my hotel and gather some much needed sleep. Looking on the map given to me by a hotel, I had only to drive a half a mile and I would be able to sleep in a peaceful hotel that faced the Aqueduct. 2 hours later, I found myself a bit frustrated by the fact that there seemed to not be a road that leads to this mystical hotel. After many a wrong turns and many Spanglish conversations, I had discovered that the Aqueducts literally cut all drivable roads in half, throughout the entire city. Thus, I learned I had to drive all the way around to then get back into the
The Aqueduct
One of Segovia's most popular sights. heart of the city where my hotel was. At this point, I have decided to create my own traveling award for Segovia, being #1 in most difficult to drive through. Truly, the night of driving throughout the city, I came to strong realization of how long the Aqueduct of Segovia really is.
Once the next morning came though and I had some good rest, I woke up and set out for the sights. Seeing the Aqueduct just a short walk from my hotel was a great start. The Aqueduct was built by the Romans back in the first century to bring in cold water from the mountains. When they were made, there was neither mortar nor clips used. Simply rounded off granite stones arranged so well that they have survived the test of time. In fact, they are still used today, well; the bronze pipes that bring in water go across the top of the Aqueduct. A funny story is that after the fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of the Catholic Church, the Church proclaimed that the Aqueduct was created by the Devil. In one picture, you can see where the Church put a Virgin Mary
The Cathedral of Segovia
Another famous addition to the city! in the structure. Sometimes I wonder if religions go a little too far in trying to have an answer for everything.
After taking a nice nap under the Aqueduct, I walked along and found myself at an amazing cathedral. The Segovia Cathedral, known as the Lady of Cathedrals, is the last great Gothic Cathedral in Europe. Built in the 15th century, it contains an overwhelming amount of beauty. At this time, I am still trying to decide if this Cathedral is more beautiful then the Notre Dam. If I am able, I think I will simply have to see both in the same day to make a fair judgment. If anyone cares to sponsor this artistic inquiry, please feel free to write me a message. While inside the Cathedral, I really enjoyed walking around and looking up at the Gothic architecture. Along with taking in the many murals and shrines, it was rather easy to loose track of time inside. Going further in, a very peaceful courtyard was in the middle. Being alone in this area, I was able to sit and imagine how nice it would be spending an afternoon here, reading and relaxing. There is no doubt
Inside the Cathedral
One of the many impressive sections. to me this Cathedral is holy ground.
Leaving the Cathedral, I walked through the old town and again was taking through many winding roads. After a couple of dead ends, I eventually found myself at the footsteps of Alcazar, the castle of Segovia. This place was simply awesome, and I can not think of a better way to put it. This castle was actually inspiration for Walt Disney in creation of the Disney castle. Although there are very old foundation points, the current castle was built in the 11th century. Here is where many Spanish royalties has spent their time. Inside this castle is where Columbus gained approval from Isabella to fund his first trip to India (which of course turned out to be America). Being a history teacher and Native American, it was a bit surreal knowing where I was standing and what had taken place. Walking to the top tower was a great time. From here, I was able to really appreciate an amazing view of the city and the countryside itself. As the numerous pictures show, Alcazar castle contains much of Spanish history and beauty.
After walking through the castle, the evening was getting late,
and I still had to drive to Toledo. I returned to my car and took another mini quest though, trying to find a place to take a picture of Alcazar castle. Three mountain paths later, I was able to find some pretty good shots of the castle. With this done, I headed off to Toledo.
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