Day 15 - Segovia Mass

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Segovia

Segovia became an important town under the Romans, who built the aqueduct (more later) in the 1st century AD. The city was long favoured by Castilain royalty, and Isabel the Catholic was proclaimed Queen here in 1474. In 1480 it became the headquarters of the dreaded Inquisitor Torquemada.

Economic recession, war and a 1599 plague nearly bought Segovia to ruins, but it rose again under the Bourbons who built their summer palace at nearby La Granja. It became a city known for its writers and artists, the most famous of whom was the early 20th century poet Antonio Machado.

Carmelite Convent

We boarded the bus and headed to the Discalced Carmelite Convent. This was founded by St. John of the Cross. The saint's remains were moved from Ubeda to this site, where they lie to this day in a mausoleum built at the beginning of the 20th century.

Across the street from the convent is a nice park, with a wonderful view of the Alcazar (more later on that too).

Anne-Maree does the honours of reading today. Father Mark wasn't really hiding behind the candle - it just looks that way!

Father Mark and Bishop Geoffrey during Mass, in front of the mausoleum with the remains of St. John of the Cross.

After Mass there was a "photo session".

Another view of the Alcazar from the convent.

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