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Observation deck · Segóvia, Castela e Leão
Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos
Lawn on the banks of the Eresma, below the Alcázar, from where you can see the bow-like front of the castle on the rock. It's the classic spot to photograph the Alcázar from the north side.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos
The Pradera de San Marcos is a meadow in the bottom of the valley, where the Eresma and Clamores rivers meet, just below the Alcázar. From there the castle appears atop the rock, with the Torre del Homenaje at the front, shaped like the bow of a ship.
The place is part of the green area of the Jardines de la Fuencisla, at the foot of the sanctuary of the Virgen de la Fuencisla, patron saint of Segóvia. Locals use the meadow for picnics and reading, and visitors come looking for the photo of the entire Alcázar.
The Iglesia de la Vera Cruz is a few minutes away, up the slope, and the monastery of El Parral and the Casa de Moneda are in the same valley, further east. You can make a walking circuit through the valley and climb back up to the town via the Puerta de Santiago.
Another viewpoint for the Alcázar is the small square in front of it, in the upper town, open to the Clamores valley, the mountains and the San Marcos neighborhood.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
15 to 30 minutes to see and photograph. Longer if you plan to relax on the lawn.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the western light hits the façade. From November to February it gets dark early; plan to arrive while it's still light. At night the Alcázar is usually illuminated.
How to get there
From the upper town, exit via the Puerta de Santiago and go down to the Eresma river, following the bank to the confluence with the Clamores. It's a 15–20 minute walk; the return is uphill.
Tip
Bring water and sturdy footwear: the valley path has dirt sections and slopes. For a photo of the whole castle, stand in the most open part of the lawn, near the confluence of the rivers.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos
Where to take the classic photo of the Alcázar of Segóvia?
At the Pradera de San Marcos, at the bottom of the valley, below the castle. From there the Alcázar is visible in its entirety, with its tower shaped like a prow.
Can you walk from the center to the Pradera de San Marcos?
Yes. It's about a 15 to 20 minute walk downhill from the Alcázar or via the Puerta de Santiago. The return is all uphill.
What else is near the Pradera de San Marcos?
The Iglesia de la Vera Cruz, up the slope, the sanctuary of Fuencisla and, further east, the monastery of El Parral and the Real Casa de Moneda.