We headed down below the Alcazar for four stops. The first was at the viewpoint below the Alcazar, looking up for the classic “Looking up at the Alcazar” photo. That was pretty quick.
Our next stop was at Vera Cruz Church, built in the 13th century, reputedly by the Knights Templar (it was definitely built by an order of chivalric knights, but it’s uncertain as to which one). We got there when it opened at 10:30am, so we were the first ones in.
It’s a twelve-sided church on the outside, and an unusual circular nave, which rings a giant central column called an edicule, so named because when Ed went in there, he was ridiculed.
(Editor’s Note: Now you’re just making stuff up. Writer: No comment.)
Vera Cruz Church
The tower.
The edicule was used for chivalrous ceremonies. Mariano said there is a strange energy within the church. He suggested we stand at the center point of the church, feet together, eyes closed, arms spread. He says when he does it, he feels massive energy pulling him in different directions (others, but not all, report the same feeling). Carol got pulled in directions, whilst I, bad balance and all, felt nothing. So I’ve scrapped my second career, which was to move to California and become a mystic.
From there, we went to the nearby Real Monasterio de Santa Maria del Parral. There are only seven monks left in the order, although apparently people come regularly for three days of meditation, prayer, and silence. The monastery is only accessible by tour. Alas, the tour guide only presented in Spanish. Even more alas, he was stalling for time, seeking to keep people there till the noon service, so he droned on and on. There is a beautiful garden and fountains with a huge number of koi fish. Double bonus, as the gardens afford wonderful views of the Cathedral to the Alcazar part of Segovia.
We were only allowed into one of the four cloisters. I was tempted to stay to hear the Gregorian chants, but the energy suck that was the tour caused Carol and I to skedaddle out of there. I’m not saying don’t go, but don’t go and then blame me if you got bored.
The building between us, in
the distance, is the Alcazar.
The monastery.
A view of the Alcazar from the monastery.
The cathedral from the same spot.
A good look at the city walls.
The cloister we were allowed in.
From there we doubled back, up the hill past Vera Cruz Church, and pulled into a dirt lane with stunning views of Segovia. We were the only ones there, surrounded by red poppies and basking in the sunlit views.
The Cathedral towers over the city.
Our dirt road, and Segovia in the
distance. Madrid is over the mountains
in the background.
Spring wheat, spring poppies.
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