Date of trip: November 2007

Before my trip to Spain, a friend asked if I would be visiting the castle that inspired Cinderella Castle in Walt Disney World. I was interested because I had already seen the “real” Sleeping Beauty Castle in Germany. After a bit of research, I learned that the fortress was located in a city called Segovia, an easy 1 hour and 15 minutes by bus from Madrid. Once Will and I saw pictures of Segovia and its beautiful architecture, we knew we had to go.

Highlights:

-The most famous structure in Segovia is a massive Roman Aqueduct. It is one of the best preserved and most important pieces of Roman engineering in existence. Built around 50 A.D., it is over 90 feet high at its tallest point and stretches over 10 miles. Until recently, it was still used to carry water through the city. It is truly magnificent and sure to impress children and hardened travelers alike.

-The Cathedral of Segovia, completed in 1768, was the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain. It is large, dark and mysterious and, when Will and I visited, nearly empty. We wandered the halls alone while an organ played ominously from above. Outside is a cloister with the tombs of the church’s architects and small museum rooms filled with ancient manuscripts, relics and tapestries.

-Of course, we visited the Alcazar, the aforementioned castle with a replica in Disney World. Built originally as a fortress, it later served as a royal palace. It is beautiful inside and out and there is no better view of Segovia than from atop the Tower of Juan II. It costs an extra 2 Euros and is a bit of a hike, but it’s definitely worth it.

TIP: Bus is the fastest way to Segovia from Madrid and the ride is comfortable and scenic. La Sepulvedana is the name of the company that runs the bus and it can be tricky to find without instructions. Take the Madrid metro to the Principe Pio station. Exit to the Paseo de la Florida, cross the street and take a right. The station is next to the Hotel Florida Norte but you have to go downstairs to buy tickets and then ask where the next bus leaves from. The seats are assigned so be sure to check your tickets for your numbers. When you arrive in Segovia, get off at the second stop which is the center of town. You can get around Segovia on foot. If taking a day trip, buy a round-trip ticket in Madrid but check in at the Segovia station when you are ready to leave for assigned seats on a bus back.

It’s rare to visit a place where you become so immersed in its history, you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time. Segovia reminds me of fairy tales I read growing up and walking through the city is a magical experience.

For more pictures, please visit my Photo Gallery or click on any of the photos posted above.

Segovia Links:
Segovia Mint Tourism Site
La Sepulvedana Bus Service Between Madrid and Segovia (Spanish Only)
Alcazar