Apr. 21, 2008 - Field trip - Segovia, Spain
What a beautiful day for a field trip! Weather today in Segovia is cool but sunny, and great for getting around and seeing the sites.
Can you imagine what it would be like to live in a UN World Heritage site? The old town in Segovia won this honor due to the impressive Roman aqueduct that still carries water. My children and I were recently studying the Romans, and discovered that this is one of the finest remaining examples of a Roman aqueduct.
Can you imagine what it would be like to live in a UN World Heritage site? The old town in Segovia won this honor due to the impressive Roman aqueduct that still carries water. My children and I were recently studying the Romans, and discovered that this is one of the finest remaining examples of a Roman aqueduct.
This amazing piece of architecture was built around 50 A.D. The Romans were in Spain for a long time, and have left their mark on the language, religion, and culture of Spain. Julius Caesar worked his way up the Roman Military ranks here, the apostle Paul went to Spain on missionary trips, and Hannibal was raised in Spain. Just as many American kids find arrowheads in their yards, a Spaniard is as likely to unearth Roman coins.
Another amazing site in the area is the Alcazar castle. Construction began in the 11th century, and it reached the form we see it in today in the 1500s.
Another amazing site in the area is the Alcazar castle. Construction began in the 11th century, and it reached the form we see it in today in the 1500s.
It is said that Walt Disney was inspired by this castle when he created the castle in Snow White. Perched on the edge of a cliff, and with an amazing view of the countryside, it played a key role in the reconquest of Spain from the Moors. Later it served as an alternate residence for the king, from which he and other courtiers went on hunting trips.
Also built in the golden age of the 1500's was the Cathedral of Segovia. It is considered by some to be the last great Gothic Cathedral built in Europe.
Also built in the golden age of the 1500's was the Cathedral of Segovia. It is considered by some to be the last great Gothic Cathedral built in Europe.
This lovely Cathedral remains the tallest building in the city. In addition to this breathtaking Cathedral, Segovia is full of Romanesque churches, each a treasure in its own right.
The old city is surrounded by a wall, built and maintained since the 8th century.
After a lovely day of walking through twisted alleys, visiting monuments, castles and churches, let's stop in a cafe and enjoy some hot chocolate to finish off our day.
For more information and pictures of this amazing city, visit this site.
The old city is surrounded by a wall, built and maintained since the 8th century.
After a lovely day of walking through twisted alleys, visiting monuments, castles and churches, let's stop in a cafe and enjoy some hot chocolate to finish off our day.
For more information and pictures of this amazing city, visit this site.
Comments
Apr. 21, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 4sweetums
Thank you so much for this wonderful entry and pictures. I would so love to take my children to Europe someday.
Blessings,
Dawn
