Segovia looks like a big ship cast anchor in the vast plain of Old Castile, This is one of the most charming and attractive cities of North Spain. Depending on which direction you are coming from, you will first catch sight of the Roman aqueduct, the Cathedral or the amazing castle Alcazar, all nestled around the protruded limestone hill, topped by the old city. Besides the numerous historic monuments, because of which the Segovia is included in UNESCO list of world heritage sites, the city also maintains a rich cultural life and outstanding gastronomy.

During all seasons you will feel the change of the climate when approaching the city, located 1000 m above sea level. First the Romans found the advantages of this place. The very well preserved ancient aqueduct over Plaza Azoguejo, 29 m high, is the best proof for their exceptional engineering skills. In 1088 the king of Castile Alfonso VI moved to Segovia his royal court, giving the start of the city's period of great flourish, proved by the large number of still preserved Romanesque churches (more than 40). The zenith of this period is 1474 when Isabel was proclaimed a queen of Catilla in the church of San Miguel. The city was on decline during the government of the Habsburgs in 16-17th centuries but in 18th century it revived again.

The old town of Segovia deserves more of your sightseeing time. Get a map from the tourist office and tour each small street, because there are everywhere beautiful churches, towers and picturesque houses with numerous storks. Plaza Mayor with its splendid semi-arcades and pleasant cafes is the heart of the historic city centre. Across the square is the tremendous silhouette of the Cathedral. This sumptuous church in late Gothic style hides some rare elements in its spacious interior illuminated by splendid Flemish windows from the 16th century, such as the main Baroque altarpiece by Andrea Sabatini (15-16th centuries) and the altarpiece in the side chapel, portraying the Burial of Christ, created by Juan de Juni (1571). The choir stalls and this in the gallery were brought here from the old Romanesque cathedral, saved from the fire of 1520.

From Plaza Mayor you should walk along Calle de la Infanta Isabel to reach the most fascinating square in Segovia - Plaza de San Martin. This is a terraced area, surrounding the statue of the local hero Juan Bravo, situated in the shade of the pretty church of San Martin. Like most of the city churches it is opened only for liturgy but you can enjoy its gorgeous exterior with the Romanesque capital of the portal and the majestic mudejar tower. Close to the church is the royal prison from 17th century, turned now into a public library. Across the square you can see the wonderful 14th-century tower Torreon de Lozoya and the museum of contemporary art Esteban Vicente, next to it, featuring works by the artist expressionist who died in Long Island, USA in 2001.

Going down the hill from Plaza de San Martin you will reach Casa de los Picos, a private residential house from 15th century with an impressive façade, today housing a school of applied arts. In the surrounding neighbourhood you will often meet facades with decorative plaster reliefs “esgrafiados”, such as that of Alhóndiga, a former public granary, housing today the municipal archives. Alhóndiga and the neighbour Palacio de Azpiroz are typical examples of the regional architectural style from 15th century.

Without any doubt, the most remarkable sight of Segovia is the fairy-tale castle Alcazar de Segovia, raising with its towers like a mirage on the strategic western summit of the hill, below which is the junction of the rivers Clamores and Eresma. The Emperor Philip II from the Habsburg dynasty ordered this incredible palace. To the earlier medieval castle were added new tall structures, covered by picturesque roofs with numerous small towers. In the last quarter of 19th century the complex had undergone a major reconstruction after a fire. The restorers added some additional pomposity to it. After that the castle was given to the royal artillery, which created its own museum here. You should ask at the ticket-office about a brochure with a full description of the Alcazar's interior. Arrow signs will lead you from the medieval doorway with original Gothic windows to the magnificent throne hall, which will stun every visitor with the restored mudejar decoration. Inside the castle you will see ancient tapestry, paintings, historic furnishings, beautiful mudejar ceilings and knight’s armours. Enjoy the panoramic views from the roof of the central tower, which you can access climbing narrow staircase of 150 steps. Pay attention to the semi-cylindrical small wall towers.