Old Town of Segovia and Its Aqueduct

Guide to the Old Town of Segovia and Its Iconic Aqueduct

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for exploring the historical wonders of Segovia, a city located in the central region of Spain, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural heritage. This guide will focus primarily on the Old Town of Segovia and its most famous landmark: the Roman Aqueduct.

The Old Town of Segovia

History

Segovia’s origins date back to pre-Roman times, with the Celtiberian and Iberian cultures playing significant roles. However, it was under Roman rule that Segovia truly flourished, becoming an essential military stronghold and a key stop on the Roman road network. The city’s strategic location near the Eresma and Clamores rivers has played a crucial role in its development over the centuries.

Architecture

The Old Town of Segovia is characterized by its unique urban layout, with narrow, winding streets leading to various plazas and squares. The city’s most striking architectural features include:

  1. Segovia Cathedral: Known as the “Lady of the Towers,” this Gothic cathedral was completed in 1525 and is renowned for its distinctive design, which combines Gothic and French Flamboyant elements.

  2. Alcazar of Segovia: Located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, this castle has been rebuilt several times throughout history, with the current structure dating back to the 18th century. It is most famous for its unique design, which resembles a ship’s bow.

  3. City Walls and Towers: The Old Town of Segovia is surrounded by medieval walls and towers, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.

The Roman Aqueduct

History

The Aqueduct of Segovia was built during the reign of Emperor Trajan (53-117 AD) as part of an extensive water supply system that brought water from the mountains to Segovia and nearby Roman settlements. The aqueduct is over 2,000 years old and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Roman engineering.

Construction

The Aqueduct of Segovia is made up of nearly 170 arches, standing approximately 29 meters tall at its highest point. The arches are built using granite blocks, with no mortar used to bind the stones together. Instead, the weight of the blocks and their interlocking design keep the structure stable.

Visiting the Aqueduct

Visitors can walk beneath and alongside the aqueduct, taking in its impressive size and engineering prowess. It is best viewed at sunrise or sunset when the light highlights the intricate details of the granite blocks. The aqueduct is located just outside the Old Town, making it an easy addition to any Segovia itinerary.

Practical Information for Visitors

  1. How to get there: Segovia can be reached by train from Madrid or other cities in Spain. The city also has a bus station with connections to various destinations.

  2. Accommodation: Segovia offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels and apartments to luxury hotels.

  3. Food: Try local specialties such as cochinillo (roast suckling pig) and bocadillo de calabaza (pumpkin sandwich).

  4. Best time to visit: The best times to visit Segovia are from April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild, and the city is not overrun with tourists.

We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to the Old Town of Segovia and its iconic aqueduct. Enjoy exploring this stunning city and its rich history!