About the Picture
Looking for the Knights Templars linked places for your trip in Spain? The church of the True Cross (Iglesia de la Vera Cruz) in Segovia has one such hidden gem.
Spain is a very popular travel destination and many who visit Madrid also take a day trip to Segovia; those who don’t – they miss a wonderful city.
Segovia’s historic center is part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing (featuring famous Alcazar de Segovia castle and Roman Aqueduct), drawing millions of visitors annually – yet Iglesia de la Vera Cruz sits in a quieter landscape pocket perfect for contemplative views.
The church was constructed in 1208 and is one of the most distinctive churches associated with medieval military-religious orders around Segovia. Often linked to the Knights Templar and also historically connected with the Order of the Holy Sepulchre.
Romanesque churches with centralized polygonal plans are comparatively rare in Spain, which adds editorial interest.
I find it quite compelling, how Iglesia de la Vera Cruz embodies Spanish Romanesque stripped to essentials: thick walls, small windows and massing that catches light in broad planes. Isn’t it visually powerful?
I took this picture from the Alcazar de Segovia castle grounds, the church just grabbed my attention, and thanks to the image I also learnt about its fascinating history.
For itinerary planners, walking to Vera Cruz is a peaceful choice away from the busy crowds at the aqueduct. You can visit the small religious buildings in the valley and the Monastery of Santa María del Parral on the same trip. A great opportunity to visit great viewing spots to take beautiful wide photos of the church, nearby small villages and especially, the Alcazar of Segovia.
If you’re looking for free images of other famous tourist spots in Segovia, check the image of Alcazar de Segovia (taken from Mirador del Alcázar y los dos Valles) and Roman Aqueduct picture (one of the largest and best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world).
For more information about Segovia in Castile and León region and places to visit, check Tourismo de Segovia website, it shares plenty of great information!
FAQs about Iglesia de la Vera Cruz (Segovia)
Is the church inside Segovia’s old town?
It sits just outside, on the Eresma valley side, a short walk from the Alcázar.
Is it a Templar church?
It’s traditionally linked to the Templars and associated with the Order of the Holy Sepulchre.
How do I get to Iglesia de la Vera Cruz from central Segovia?
Follow signs toward the Alcázar and continue west; footpaths and local roads reach the church in about 20 minutes on foot.
What’s special about its architecture?
A rare Romanesque, centralized polygonal plan with a compact tower and austere masonry.
Where’s the best viewpoint to see the church in the landscape?
From Alcázar terraces and nearby hill paths that reveal the winding road leading to the church.
How far is it from Segovia’s main sights?
About 1–2 km from the Alcázar; the aqueduct and cathedral are within roughly 2–3 km.
Can I use this image commercially?
Yes — CC BY 4.0. Credit “Luke Lawreszuk – Sprayedout.com” with a link to this page; don’t resell the file as-is.

How to Use This Image & Attribution
License: CC BY 4.0 — free for personal & commercial use with credit.
- Give credit: “Photo by Luke Lawreszuk – Sprayedout.com” and link back to Iglesia de la Vera Cruz (free photo).
- Do not resell the file as-is or claim authorship.
Copy-paste attribution:
Photo by Luke Lawreszuk – Sprayedout.com (CC BY 4.0) via Iglesia de la Vera Cruz (free photo).


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