Aqueduct of Segovia

Being one of the best public works in Spain, the Aqueduct is one of the most magnificent works left by the Romans. It was built during the 1^st century during the Flavian Dynasty in order to bring water to the city of Segovia from the mountains. The Aqueduct is made up of 166 arches of granite block without any type of mortar. It also reaches almost 15 kilometers in length, and a maximum height of 28.1 meters. During an attack by the Moslem Al-Mamum of Toledo in 1072, 36 of the arches were damaged. These arches have been restored in the 15^th century. The Aqueduct starts by the road of La Granja and continues along through the Casa de Piedra where the water was filtered by sand and the flow was regulated. The water also goes through a second sand filter later on. The Aqueduct was used up until the 1950’s to bring water to the city.

Allison Spiker

Real Jardin Botanico

The Royal Botanical Gardens of Madrid were established in 1781 by King Charles III. The gardens were established as a center of research and study of plant life and of preservation of species. The garden has four different levels: the “Terrace of Plots”; the “Terrace of the Botanical Schools,” where plants are arranged by botanical affinity; the more romantic “The Flower Plan”; and the “Laurel Terrace” which houses special collections. The gardens are especially beautiful in the spring time when all the flowers are in bloom.

Allison Spiker

Atocha Train Station

The Atocha train station was built in the early 1900’s and has been enlarged and improved to meet the demands of the modern high-speed trains. The interior contains a tropical rain forest that is misted every few minutes to keep the plants healthy and beautiful, which actually creates its own clouds of humidity. The rain forest keeps the same tropical look all year round, even when it’s snowing outside. Turtles also make up a part of this rain forest, as you can watch them swim around or climb on the rocks as you wait for your next train to arrive. This rain forest gives the train station a wonderful atmosphere and adds a great element of entertainment for both regular and visitor train passengers.

Allison Spiker

Alcazar Castle

The Alcazar castle, located in the town of Segovia, is entered through a drawbridge crossing over a deep moat that runs all around the castle, and has existed since the time of the Celts. The word “alcazar” means royal residence, in which this castle was converted to in the 13^th century. A serious fire in 1862 damaged the majority of the castle, but during the rule of Alfonso XII reconstruction took place. After completion the Alcazar firstly became the Military Archives and later an Artillery Academy and Museum. Now, the castle is currently used for cultural activities and a museum.

Allison Spiker