The Alcazar castle in Segovia

The Moorish word Alcazar stems from the Arabic " 'Al'qasr ", meaning fortress.The castle in Segovia is well rooted in bedrock adjacent to the río Eresma, part of the river was redirected around the castle to feed water to its' moat. After the reconquista the fortresses was taken over by the Spanish and began the rebuilding them with castles, fortresses with military headquarters. Building of the Segovia's Alcazar begun as early as 1085. Whereas its a purely Spanish architecture the buildings themselves bear a strong affinity to the Islamic influence.

Although the castle is of Moorish tradition, the spires are of central European influence. A place for
 royalty: kings, queens, prince and princesses. Wonderful models for modern
                day amusement castles.    
                                                                                                                                                                                              

the side view give you a different perspective

A better view of the huge rock the Alcazar was built on, with a perfect natural moat
surrounding the castle.This location gave it a natural defensive advantage.

The top is the front entrance to the castle and below the Code of Arms.

entering the castle

There are many rooms where businesses were carried out by the court and regal family
These three are a small sample of their colorful beauty.

Fernando III and Alfonso X were key for building the majority of the rooms we see today.

 

                                           

This video is of the tapestry of the coronation of queen Isabela displayed in one of the rooms.

                The Alcazar was built with two courtyards: el patio del reloj (patio of the clock)
                                 and the large one is el patio de armas (the armaments patio)

Can you tell the difference between a soldier and a knight in battle? The night had
 two extra weapons, the toes of their armor.