Segovia: Stately, welcoming and beutiful

Segovia is one of the most impressive cities that we visited. The town sits majestically between the rivers Clamares and Eresma. Adjacent to the river Clamares you will find the royal castle, Alcazar. Down the ancient pebbled road sits the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain with its massive bell towers demanding everyone's attention. In this posting will divide Segovia into three posts, the cathedral outside, cathedral inside and royal castle  Alcazar reminiscent of Disney's creations.

We found  the city of Segovia to be fascinating. Historically, it is of Celtic heritage but was invaded by the Roman Empire.  Later it fell into Islamic rule. Eventually it was re-taken by the Spanish crown during their conquest of Toledo. A very important trade center during its golden age, Segovia's growth was accompanied by several splendid works of Gothic architecture. In 1985, UNESCO designated the old city of Segovia and its prestigious Roman aqueduct, a world heritage site.

The Roman aqueduct defines the entrance to Segovia and its historical nature dating
back to the 1st and 2nd centuries.

It is considered to be one of the most extraordinary engineering accomplishments
and a jewel of all Spain. 

As we walk under the prestigious Roman aqueduct we enter into old Segovia lovingly cuddled by a massive wall surrounding the city, like a dutiful mother protecting its child.

As Mercedes and I walked through the ancient gates of Segovia, we discovered
the wonders which we've only read about now the historical and cultural aromas escaping
through the city wall were waiting for us.

All tourist vihecles were parked outside the city gates. We walked about 10-15 minutes
 to the plaza mayor. A number of open strategically positioned stores, souvenirs shops lined
 main street. Restaurants displayed their menus, but tapas bars captured our appetite with their world famous jamón Ibérico, salted, aged, dried ham: excellent with you favorite Spanish wine.

Waking towards the plaza mayor, main square the imposing  bell towers and spires of
catedral Santa Maria of Segovia come into view. It's one of the largest in the world.

Santa Maria of Segovia known as the The Great Dame of the Cathedrals because
of its elegance and dimensions. It is a prime example of  baroque architecture.
 It was built in two phases and centuries. The first part was complected in 1562
and the second part in 1720.

There are 3 door inviting you to enter: two southern side, San Geroto and San Frutos.
 On the northern side is la puerta del perdon, the door of forgiveness.

Santa Maria de Segovia has 19 chapels, each one about the size of a typical town church.
   It's size is about 33 meters high, 50 meters wide and 105 meters long. 
The bell towers are 90 meters high.

So you can better appreciate the magnificence of this cathedral and Segovia, I borrowed this
panoramic picture from Google pictures.
http://cathedralsegovia.wordpress.com/Google maps