Segovia's iconic feature is the Roman aqueduct built in the late 1st century. It is the most significant Roman civil engineering feature in Spain. The most fascinating feature is that the 818 meter (894 yards) span 29 meters (31 yards) high was built with no mortar. The aqueduct is even on the coat of arms for the city and city flag. The next iconic feature of the city is an alcazar that looks like a Disney castle. It was first documented in the 12th century and was a popular royal residence through the Middle Ages. While Philip II lived in the alzazar, he added the sharp spires with slate roofing that made it unlike any other Castillian fortress. Once the royal court settled in Madrid, the alcazar was used as a state prison for two centuries. I did not make that up - it was in the brochure! In 1762 the alcazar became the location for the Royal Artillery School. Sadly, in 1862 an enormous fire destroyed much of the interior and roof. Twenty years later, restoration work began to be used by the military once again. In 1951 the Castle Trust was formed to keep it as a museum and a destination for visitors. This castle was also the model for Disney's Snow White. We did not visit the cathedral interior, but the exterior was impressive. It was the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain. Segovia is also known for its roast meats. We had the Cochinillo Asado (roast pig) that was surprisingly tasty. Damon had to cut it up for me because I wasn't able to figure out how to approach eating it....lame, I know.
Not my picture - but this is the Cochinillo Asado we had for lunch.
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