Day 15 - Segovia Mass

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.

Peter in front of Segovia castle at Carmelite Monastery with St. John of the Cross

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

Anne-Maree reads at St. John of the Cross tomb

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

Mass at St. John of the Cross tomb, Segovia

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

Mass at St. John of the Cross tomb, Segovia

Photo session after Mass at St. John of the Cross tomb

After Mass there was a "photo session".

Segovia castle from below

Another view of the Alcazar from the convent.

Pilgrimage Home Page

The Aqueduct right arrow