Disney transformed the Alcázar of Segovia into a fairytale setting for the promotion of its new live-action film, Snow White. The medieval fortress, built in the 12th century, is widely believed to have inspired the castle in the 1937 animated classic, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Now, nearly a century later, Disney returned to this iconic location to celebrate the upcoming release, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.

A Magical Performance by Rachel Zegler

As part of the event, Rachel Zegler performed Waiting on a Wish, an original song from the film, in front of the majestic Alcázar. Dressed in an elegant white gown, she sang to an audience of excited fans and special guests. Disney captured the performance on video, sharing it on social media with the caption: ‘Rachel Zegler singing in front of the castle that inspired the original Snow White movie.‘ The video quickly went viral, reinforcing the timeless connection between Segovia’s castle and Disney’s storytelling.

Segovia Transformed into a Fairytale

Disney went beyond the Alcázar, adding touches of Snow White throughout Segovia. Large red apples, a nod to the story’s poisoned fruit, appeared in key spots like Plaza del Acueducto. The city fully embraced the theme, mixing its rich history with classic Disney magic.

La historia clásica que lo empezó todo llega a Segovia. Estad atentos, estamos preparando algo mágico #Blancanieves pic.twitter.com/JiYd4kmnNd

— Disney España (@DisneySpain) March 12, 2025

Exclusive Access and Star-Studded Attendance

Disney secured several key locations in Segovia for the event and temporarily closed the Alcázar to the public. The premiere brought together Rachel Zegler, director Marc Webb, and Gal Gadot, along with invited guests, including families from organizations Disney supports in Spain. Fans from across Europe also traveled to see the event, adding to the excitement.

The Alcázar’s Lasting Influence on Disney

The Alcázar of Segovia is widely considered one of Disney’s biggest architectural inspirations. In the 1930s, Walt Disney traveled across Europe looking for ideas for his animated films. While it’s unclear if he personally visited Spain, the resemblance between Segovia’s Alcázar and Snow White’s castle is striking. Disney officially recognized this connection in its Disney100: The Landmarks feature, naming the fortress as one of 30 real-world locations that influenced its films and theme parks.

The Alcázar’s impact goes beyond Snow White. It also helped shape the design of Cinderella’s Castle, the centerpiece of Disney theme parks worldwide. Disney’s lead designer, Herbert Ryman, combined elements from the Alcázar with other European castles, including Neuschwanstein in Germany and Craigievar in Scotland, to create the now-iconic structure.

Balancing Nostalgia and Modern Adaptation

The live-action remake of Snow White, set to premiere on March 21, aims to introduce the beloved story to a new generation. However, the film has not been without controversy. Some critics have labeled it as ‘too modern’ or ‘woke,’ particularly regarding changes to the original plot and characters. Disney, however, maintains that the adaptation honors the essence of the classic while making it relevant for today’s audiences.

A Special Moment for Segovia

For Segovia, this event has put the spotlight on the city and its historic castle once more. Disney’s choice to return to the place that inspired its first princess film highlights the connection between history and storytelling.

Will you be watching Snow White in the cinema? Have you ever visited the Alcázar? Let us know in the comments…

Main image: X/@Alcazar_Segovia