The Alcázar of Segovia (alcázar = castle) is a fortress located in the old city of Segovia, at 95 Km from Madrid. It is one of the most popular historical sights in Spain and is one of the three major attractions in Segovia.
It undoubtely was an arab fortress, but the basis shows that this place was used since the Roman age. The Alcázar was built as a fortess, but it was also used as the royal palace.
King Alfonso VIII and his wife Eleanor of Plantagenet made this Alcázar their official residence. Lots of work were carried on during the Middle Age to erect part of the fortification we see today. The Torre de Juan II (John II Tower) was built in this period.
The Alcázar began one of the favourite residences of the the Castilian monarchs, because its strategic location near the Guadarrama mountains, at the conflunce of Eresma and Clamores rivers. Here, in 1474, Queen Isabel I the Castile married King Fernando II.
King Felipe II and his wife Anna of Austria ordered the main renovations of the building.
When the court moved to to Madrid, the Alcázar was used as a prison, until king Carlos III founded the Royal Artillery School in 1762. In 1862 the fire badly damaged part of the castle which was restored only in 1882.
Even if the rooms are barely furnished, they have lovely stained glass and wonderful ceilings in Mudejar style. If you don’t fear heights, you can also climb the Torre de Juan II and enjoy a lovely view over the city and the surrounding area. A 160 steps winding staircaise takes you to the top of the tower. Maybe it is a little tiring, but if you are not in a rush it’s worth it!
And if you were wondering where Disney took inspiration for his fairy castle, go to Segovia and visit the Alcázar! The building with its lovely gray turrets makes you feel as if you are in a real Disney tale!