What to see and do in Sigüenza (Guadalajara): castle and maiden

One of the most interesting visits to make a short distance from Madrid is the historic population of Sigüenza in the Guadalajara province, Castilla la Mancha.

Taking advantage of a weekend I had the opportunity to visit this town of which I had good references.

The first thing that should be emphasized is that, due to its geographical location between the mountain ranges Central e Iberian, Sigüenza It has been a natural passageway on the peninsula for several centuries.

Thus, throughout its history Roman, Visigoth and Muslim populations inhabited this enclave.

The best things to see and do when visiting Sigüenza

A good reflection of this historical step is the Sigüenza castle, currently converted into a national hostel, which was rebuilt in 1976.

Castle and national inn of Sigüenza

El medieval castle It was built at the top of the hill, which provides beautiful panoramic views of Sigüenza.

The fortress has its origins in the remains of an Arab citadel, which was built on a Roman settlement.

For centuries these walls have protected its inhabitants on many occasions.

El castle It consists of a central courtyard with gardens, which was used to shelter the villagers when the population was attacked.

This patio is surrounded by several rooms such as dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms.

El Sigüenza castle It has been the residence of kings, cardinals and bishops; Even among its corridors you can find a 13th century chapel.

Currently some of its rooms can be visited, but whether you are staying or not, it is worth taking a walk through its patios, restaurants and dining rooms, which have a striking medieval decoration.

Walls of Sigüenza

Leaving the castle and going down the cobbled streets of Sigüenza, you can find remains of the two medieval walls that protected the city with their corresponding gateways.

Sigüenza It has a peculiarity, the construction of the city originated at the top of the hill where the castle is located and from there it has grown down a slope.

In this way, in the buildings you can see the passing of the centuries as you descend towards the cathedral.

In the lower part you can see the expansion typical of contemporary cities.

Prison Square

On your way to the cathedral you will find, among other places, the Prison square, which was previously the main square where you could find the most important civil buildings.

These were the old jail, town hall and Posada del Sol, buildings that are still preserved.

Sigüenza Cathedral

The current Plaza Mayor gives way to the majestic Sigüenza Cathedral, whose origin dates back to the time of the reconquest of the Muslims.

Starting from a Romanesque style, the cathedral has been built in different styles over the centuries.

As you approach, you will be struck by the enormous size of the building.

Once you enter its interior, you will get another surprise and it is its large Gothic style nave from the 15th century.

The cathedral ends its mosaic of styles with the ornamental part that dates back to the 18th century.

Where to see the Doncel de Sigüenza

An essential corner to see inside the cathedral is the tomb that houses the remains of Martín Vázquez de Arce. 

Known as the Doncel de Sigüenza, his tomb has one of the most outstanding sculptures of Spanish Gothic.

A good excuse to visit the city is to take advantage of the celebration of an exhibition such as the one that took place in 2016 inside the cathedral, the Atempora exhibition.

It was a review of the historical context of the time in which they lived. Cervantes y Shakespeare taking advantage of the 400 years since the death of the two greatest exponents of universal literature.

This commemoration was used to present a flag that was taken from the pirate Francis drake during his foray into Spain and Portugal.

The flag was found in the cathedral funds and was donated by a great-nephew of the aforementioned Doncel de Sigüenza.

In Atempora exhibition You could see objects typical of the time, in addition to some samples of the work of El Greek, Garcilaso de la Vega, Cinchinate etc ...

Also shown was the Santa Librada altarpiece, the main sacristy or the chapel of the Holy Spirit, in addition to the mausoleum of Factory from Portugal where the aforementioned tomb of the Doncel de Sigüenza.

Map: how to get to Sigüenza from Madrid

Sigüenza It is located just under two hours by car northwest of Madrid, and less than an hour from the city of Guadalajara.

Photos of Sigüenza in Guadalajara

Here you have more photos of Sigüenza, its castle and the cathedral, visit to be made in the Guadalajara province.