Sigüenza, Medieval municipality in Guadalajara Province, Spain
Sigüenza is a municipality in Guadalajara Province, Spain, spreading across a hillside above the Henares River. Narrow lanes wind between houses with balconies and stone doorways, while the old castle rises as a silhouette on the upper part.
In 1124 Christian forces recaptured the town and Bishop Bernard of Agen began rebuilding, tearing down the old mosque. During the 16th century the place gained further importance through several noble families and trade routes.
The name derives from the Roman settlement Segontia, whose traces remain visible in several spots today. Visitors find a lively center at the Plaza Mayor, where locals stroll under the arcades and gather in the cafés beneath the arches.
The old quarter sits on a hill at roughly 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) elevation, so comfortable shoes help with the slopes. Many lanes are narrow and closed to cars, making walking the easiest way to explore.
Beneath the ground lie remains of Roman aqueducts, which occasionally surface during construction work. In some cellars of old houses visitors find Arab cisterns that once collected rainwater for residents.
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