Visit the Mint

Mint location map
Take a photo-tour of the mint

The Segovia Mint is nestled in the narrow Eresma River valley, just outside the medieval wall that surrounds the historic district of the city, at the foot of the Alcázar castle. Looking towards one direction the castle looms overhead, and off towards the other is the splendid 15th century Parral Monastery. The entire area is classified as a green, protected zone. Historic monuments, garden patches, trees, the Eresma River -- crossed by two ancient bridges -- and the small neighborhood of San Marcos, comprise the landscape surrounding the Mint.

The river, with its tree-lined walk, is the centerpiece of the Mint’s setting. It’s flow pauses briefly at the Mint’s dam where water was drawn off to to feed the waterwheels which powered the Mint’s machinery. The visitor feels transported centuries back in time, surrounded by monuments, trees and the river. No modern building interrupts the setting.

The complex of buildings which makes up the Mint is situated on the left bank of the river, set up against the bridge to the Parral Monastery, and bordered by “Calle de la Moneda” street. Access to the complex is via the huge neo-classic monumental entryway. Upon entering, one finds oneself on the upper level of a great, split-level central patio, surrounded by buildings that served as departments of the historic industrial manufacturing plant. The entire panorama from the upper patio, has the castle and the Parral Monastery for its backdrop.

The buildings along the upper patio level are the ones which did not require water power for their function: administration, living quarters, foundry ovens, treasury and storage. The great machinery building sits along the length of the lower patio level, with the canals and waterwheels on its back side. The upper level of the machinery building is connected to the upper patio level via a curious footbridge which exits into a sunken stairway leading between the two patio levels. On the other side of the canal is the “old mill”, with its own patio, views and ambiance.

Adjacent to, and in back of the administration building, is the factory’s historic romantic garden. It’s a hidden garden which is accessed through two doors, which guard its private setting. In the center is a gazebo with a fountain, and a room with a small balcony overlooking the river where the king enjoyed fishing for trout when he visited his Mint.

The Friends Of The Segovia Mint Association organizes visits to the Mint. For more information: info@segoviamint.org.