Castle History

The Alcázar of Segovia rises from a rocky outcrop at the meeting point of two rivers, giving it the silhouette of a stone ship sailing over Castile. Its origins date back to Roman times, but it was during the Middle Ages that the fortress took on its iconic form. The castle served as a royal palace, military academy, state prison, and artillery fortress over the centuries. It was one of the favorite residences of the kings of Castile, especially during the reign of Alfonso X. Isabella I was crowned Queen of Castile at the Alcázar in 1474, a moment that reshaped Spanish and global history. The castle's dramatic towers and steep roofs were designed as much for symbolism as for defense. Its distinctive fairy-tale profile is often said to have inspired later storybook castles. Inside, richly decorated halls reflect the power and ambition of Spain's medieval monarchy. The Hall of Kings displays sculpted portraits of Castilian rulers, turning genealogy into architecture. After falling into decline, the castle suffered a devastating fire in 1862. A meticulous restoration returned it to its former grandeur in the late 19th century. The Alcázar later became a military academy, linking medieval fortification with modern statecraft. From its towers, the surrounding plains stretch endlessly, reinforcing its sense of command. The castle's layered history mirrors Spain's transition from feudal kingdom to global empire. The Alcázar of Segovia endures as a place where architecture, power, and imagination converge in unmistakable stone. Today, its soaring turrets and ornate halls draw visitors from around the world, allowing them to step directly into the drama and majesty of Spain's royal past.