Segovia Cathedral, Segovia (must see)

The Segovia Cathedral, an awe-inspiring Late Gothic masterpiece, reigns majestically atop the highest point of the Old Town, exerting its dominance over the surrounding landscape. Positioned strategically, it offers panoramic views of the city and the picturesque Sierra de Guadarrama foothills.

Dating back to 1525, the Segovia Cathedral stands as the final Gothic cathedral constructed in Spain, and its magnificence is evident in its intricately designed façade and soaring towers. The remarkable Puerta del Perdón entrance, a creation by Juan Guas, showcases exquisite craftsmanship.

Stepping into the cathedral's vast vaulted interior, visitors are greeted by the grandeur of Gothic architecture. Bathed in the vibrant hues of stained-glass windows, the sanctuary, extending 105 meters in length, emanates a sense of tranquility and balance.

The cathedral houses 20 chapels, adorned with fine sculptures, artworks, and altars, each enclosed by ornate grilles. The main altarpiece, a masterpiece crafted from marble, jasper, and bronze, features a 14th-century ivory figure of the Virgen de la Paz, captivating all who behold it.

For enthusiasts of ecclesiastical artifacts, the Museo Catedralicio de Segovia presents liturgical objects, religious paintings, and 17th-century tapestries within 18 chapels of the cathedral. The museum's collections boast noteworthy works crafted from gold and silver, spanning the 15th to 18th centuries. Additionally, masterpieces of religious painting and tapestries from the School of Rubens grace its halls.

The cathedral is also home to the Archivo Capitular, an archive room preserving over 500 antique songbooks, documents, manuscripts, and books, including the Sinodal de Aguilafuente, Spain's first printed book. Visitors can explore this treasure trove from Monday to Friday, between 9 am and 1 pm.

Regular masses take place at the cathedral from Monday to Saturday at 10 am, and on Sundays and holidays at 11 am and 12:30 pm. Tourists can visit the cathedral, with an admission fee, from Monday to Thursday between 9:30 am and 7:30 pm, on Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm, and on Sundays from 12:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Guided tours of the cathedral and its tower, conducted in Spanish, are available for an additional fee.