Santiago Gate (Francisco Peralta’s puppet collection)
Francisco Peralta Puppet Collection
This is one of the Gates in the Wall of Segovia, known in 1122 as the Puerta de Rodrigo Ordoñez.
In the mid-13th century, it acquired its current name from the nearby church dedicated to St James, which no longer exists.
It connected the upper town with the suburb of San Marcos and from there led to the Camino Real de Castilla.
The defensive structure and the interesting architecture can be seen, with external remains of sculptural elements and paintwork.
Sheltered within the arch is the image of the Virgen del Camino.
Inside is the excellent Francisco Peralta Puppet Collection, named after one of Spain’s finest puppeteers. The collection comprises 38 pieces depicting characters from popular ballads, musicals, classical literature and children’s stories.
This space features a specialist bookshop focusing on the city walls, the world of puppetry and marionettes.