Segovia's Treasures

When I used to work with Latin American students, I was constantly impressed by how influenced the students were by American culture. Their constant references to Justin Beiber, High School Musical and all things Disney surprised me, but I soon wrote it off as the large influence of U.S. culture on the world as a whole. While the influence of U.S. culture cannot be dismissed, the city of Segovia proves that not even Disney is solely of American ingenuity.
Segovia is situated about two hours outside of Salamanca and is one of the best representations of Old Castile. One of Segovia’s most famous attributes is the Alcazar. The Alacazar is a behemoth castle on top of a large hill. It is known within Spain for its beauty and its grandeur. It is known throughout the world as the inspiration behind the castles in Disney’s Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. How strange that I boasted of U.S. influences throughout the world, when in fact ours is based on another culture as well.
But the story of Segovia reaches farther back then the Spanish palaces and their consequent movie roles. Segovia also boasts some of the oldest remaining Roman aqueducts in the world. Segovia’s aqueducts are more than 2,000 years old and span across the city façade like ancient guardians, protecting the rich culture of the city. Moorish geometrical designs also cover the sides of buildings, reminding everyone of a forgotten father of Spanish culture.