The Alcázar of Segovia is a castle in the city of Segovia, Spain. It is one of the most distinctive castle-palaces in Spain by virtue of its shape. The castle was originally built as a fortress and later it was used as a royal palace and a military academy.
Documents indicate that a fortress existed on this site by the early 12th century known as the Alcázar, an Arabic word for a royal residence. It was built by the Berber Almoravid dynasty, on the site of an old Roman fort, but little of that structure remains.
In the 13th and 14th centuries, the palace was enlarged during the reign of King John II. He was the single largest contributor to the continuing construction and built the “New Tower,” also known as “John II Tower.”
Under Philip II, a major renovation was made after his marriage to Anna of Austria. Slate roofs and spires on the towers were added to reflect the castles of central Europe. After a hundred years, in 1862, a fire destroyed most of the structure and the roofs of the treasury, the keep, the armory, the sleeping quarters, and framework were badly damaged. The Islamic ceiling in the castle is a modern replica of the original which was destroyed by the flames.
There are a lot of notable room in the castle with many works of art representing Spanish Kings and Queens. Sala de Ajimeces has gorgeous, Romanesque, mullioned windows. The Fireplace Room is known for its furniture, which dates back to the 16th century.
The Throne Room features two thrones used by Alfonso XIII. The Gallery Room is one of the most beautiful aspects of the entire castle. Is known for its impressive ceiling which resembles the upside-down hull of a ship.
The fairytale good looks have made it Spain’s most famous castle. It is one of the several castles that inspired the creation of the world-famous Cinderella Castle found in various Walt Disney theme parks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPl7xeRlwpE