Segovia, Spain

Segovia is one of the most impressive and most important historical cities in Spain, about 90 km north of the capital city Madrid, situated on a 1.000 m high plateau.

The first records of a settlement in this place go back to Celtic times. Legend has it, that the city was founded by the mythical hero Hercules.

Under Roman rule the city began to thrive. One of the most important legacies of that time is undoubtedly the aqueduct, a feat of Roman engineering. It soars up to the impressive height of 28.5 meters with 167 arches made of solid stone blocks, all fit together without binding mortar on a length of almost 17 km to channel water from the mountains down into the city. It was built in the first century and was in use until 1973. It is among the most intact Roman aqueducts in Europe.

In medieval times, the city's wealth  came through its important textile industry and wool trade. Sitting on one of the most important trade routes helped tremendously. From 13th until 15th century it was the official royal resicdence. In 1474 Isabella, who later freed her people from Moorish rule together with Ferdinand II of Aragon, who became her husband and co-ruler, was crowned Queen of Castile in Segovia.

In 1985 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the old town of Segovia, including the Alcázar and the Cathedral.

Thank you very much for sending this beautiful card with EUROPA stamp José !!!