Summer is over, but that doesn’t mean the festivals and historical reenactments have come to an end. In fact, this Saturday, October 3, you can travel back to the 15th century just over an hour’s drive from Madrid. Segovia, whose Old Town and Aqueduct are World Heritage Sites, is celebrating the third edition of the Proclamation of Isabella the Catholic, a reenactment that brings to life one of the most pivotal episodes in Spanish history.
The historical reenactment was initially scheduled to take place on the Cathedral’s Paved Courtyard, the famous “Lady of the Cathedrals.” However, the forecast of rain has forced organizers to move the main event to the Aula Magna at IE University. The program, however, retains the essence of the original plan: a staged performance featuring acting, music, and dance that will transport the audience back to 15th-century Castile.
An ancient medieval church as the setting
The new venue maintains its connection to the Middle Ages: IE University’s Aula Magna is housed in the former church of the Santa Cruz la Real convent, a Dominican complex founded in 1218 and renovated in the 15th century under the auspices of the Catholic Monarchs.
The building retains its monumental character, featuring Gothic architecture, ribbed vaults, and a historic religious nave. Today it serves as an academic and cultural space, having moved away from its original spiritual function, but this Saturday, October 3, it will host an immersive journey back in time.
The reenactment will have two performances, at 6:15 p.m. and 8:15 p.m., each lasting approximately one hour. The performance will take place inside the complex, a change that allows the event to proceed despite the weather forecast.
A medieval market to round out the getaway
The Proclamation of Isabella the Catholic, starring Madrid actress Amapola Arribas as the queen, will not be the only opportunity to travel back in time. The reenactment is part of a broader program that began on September 28 and runs through October 4.
And, although the weather forecast isn’t the most favorable, the medieval market in Plaza de los Mercaderes is still scheduled to take place from Friday, October 2, through Sunday, October 4, in the area surrounding the Plaza Mayor. Since this is an outdoor event, it’s advisable to check the organization’s official channels for any last-minute changes.
There will be craft stalls, local products, and culinary offerings where you can take a break while exploring the historic center. On Saturday, October 3—the day of the Proclamation of Isabella the Catholic—the market will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., making it a great option before attending the reenactment.
How to get to Segovia from Madrid
Segovia is just over an hour’s drive from Madrid. Another option is to take the high-speed train from Madrid-Chamartín to Segovia Guiomar, a journey of about 30 minutes. The station is located outside the historic center, so you’ll need to complete the trip to the city center by city bus, taxi, or private vehicle. It is possible to walk the route, but it takes about half an hour.