Segovia, Spain — Snow White’s castle is here

The Alcázar Castle, with its blue rooftops gleaming with a charming metallic sheen under the sunlight. (Photo by Chen Mulin)

“Skin as white as snow, lips as red as blood, hair as black as ebony — her beauty aroused the jealousy of her stepmother, so she fled the palace and ventured deep into the forest…” The story’s heroine, Snow White, has accompanied generations through childhood, especially with Disney’s deeply beloved animation. The cliffside castle depicted in it leaves a striking impression, and it is said that the prototype of this castle is located in Segovia, Spain. The majestic real-life structure is truly breathtaking.

Perched at the northwest corner of Segovia’s old town, the stone-built Alcázar of Segovia resembles a sailing ship from afar, with its towering towers looking just like sails. The castle’s most distinctive feature is its light blue rooftops, which display an enchanting metallic glow under the sun. This dazzling sheen comes from the use of a type of slate called “fisara” sourced from the nearby river. Under the blue sky and white clouds, it stands out remarkably.

If you’ve seen Disney’s Snow White animation, you’ll feel a sense of familiarity — even emotion — upon seeing the Alcázar. It’s said that Disney used it as the inspiration for the castle in the animated film. Imagining Snow White living within its walls adds even more storytelling charm to the fortress, making it hard to leave.