Alcazar of Segovia

Castile and León, Spain's city of Segovia is home to the Alcázar of Segovia, a medieval castle. It is one of the most recognizable castle palaces in Spain because of its design, which resembles the bow of a ship. It rises out on a rocky crag above the confluence of two rivers close to the Guadarrama mountains. The Almoravid dynasty initially constructed the alcázar in the 11th or 12th century as a stronghold, but it has subsequently been used as a royal palace where twenty-two kings have reigned, a state jail, a Royal Artillery College, and a military academy. The castle is a representation of Segovia's Old City and looks out over a valley where the Eresma River flows.

In 1985, UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site. Since its designation as a National Archive by Royal Decree in 1998, the alcazar is now a museum and a structure housing the military archives. Highlights of the Alcazar of Segovia's interior include the magnificent keep, the square with four towers, the hall with twin windows and pointed barrel vaults, and the ornate Mudejar-style interior.

The spectacular site is open for tours, and visitors can climb the towers for a beautiful view of the town. The magnificent castle is on our list of the greatest tourist attractions in Spain.

Established: 11th or 12th century

Location: Pl. Reina Victoria Eugenia, s/n, 40003 Segovia, Spain