Royal Alcázar of Segovia

Welcome to the Royal Alcazar of Segovia, a place where history and myth are inextricably intertwined. As you stand before its imposing silhouette, you might notice something peculiar about its shape. …

Before we enter the castle proper, we must cross the threshold of the deep moat. Look down into the chasm; it is massively deep and intimidating. …

We now enter the Throne Room, perhaps the most emblematic space in the entire Alcazar. As you look toward the far end of the hall, you will see two thrones set beneath a magnificent canopy. …

We move now into the Hall of the Kings, or 'Sala de los Reyes,' a room that functions as a physical chronicle of the Spanish monarchy. Encircling the upper part of the room is an elaborate gold-plated freeze featuring 52…

Step into the Hall of the Galley, or 'Sala de la Galera,' so named because of its unique coffered ceiling which is shaped like an inverted ship’s hull. Commissioned by Catherine of Lancaster in the early 15th century, this room…

Descending toward the lower levels, we find the Armory, a room that reflects the Alcazar’s original function as a fortress. Here, a formidable collection of weapons and suits of armor is on display, spanning several centuries of…

Our final stop within the fortress is the magnificent Tower of Juan II, also known as the Homage Tower. This is the tallest part of the Alcazar, rising majestically over the city. …

As we walk back across the drawbridge and leave the Royal Alcazar behind, take one last look at its 'ship’s prow' profile against the sky. We have journeyed from the deep moat where bears once lived, through the golden Throne…