Mérida is the Rome of Spain. Founded in 25 BC by Emperor Augustus as Augusta Emerita, a colony for veteran soldiers, it became the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. Today the capital of Extremadura, a quiet city of about 60,000 people on the Guadiana, it preserves an exceptional set of Roman monuments listed by UNESCO.
Why visit Mérida
Few places let you walk among so many Roman buildings still standing: a theatre, an amphitheatre, temples, bridges, aqueducts and a circus, all within a compact town. One joint ticket gives access to most of the sites.
Top things to do in Mérida
The Roman theatre and amphitheatre
The theatre, with its two-storey stage front of marble columns, is one of the best-preserved in the Roman world. Next door, the amphitheatre once hosted gladiator fights.
The National Museum of Roman Art
A striking brick building by architect Rafael Moneo holding the largest collection of Roman sculpture and mosaics on the Iberian Peninsula.
The Temple of Diana
A Roman temple in the middle of the town, later incorporated into a Renaissance palace.
The Roman bridge
Crossing the Guadiana on dozens of arches, it is one of the longest bridges that survive from Roman times. It is now for pedestrians only.
Los Milagros aqueduct
The tall granite and brick arches of the Los Milagros aqueduct once carried water to the city – especially photogenic when storks nest on top.
The Alcazaba and the circus
The Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress of the 9th century, guards the bridge, while the remains of the Roman circus show where chariot races were held.
The Mérida Classical Theatre Festival
Every summer, usually in July and August, the Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico stages Greek and Roman plays in the Roman theatre. Watching a performance there at night is an unforgettable experience.
Best time to visit Mérida
Spring and autumn are ideal for walking between the sites. Summer is very hot, though evenings at the festival are pleasant. Winter is cool and quiet.
Getting to and around Mérida
Mérida is about 3.5 hours by car from Madrid and two hours from Seville. Trains link it with Madrid, Badajoz and Seville. The nearest airport is Badajoz, about 60 km away. The monuments are close together and easy to visit on foot.
What to eat in Mérida
Jamón ibérico, Torta del Casar cheese, migas, caldereta (lamb stew) and red wines of the Ribera del Guadiana.
Mérida FAQ
How long do you need in Mérida?
One full day covers the main monuments and the museum; stay a night if you want to see a performance at the festival.
Is there a combined ticket for the monuments?
Yes, a joint ticket covers the theatre, amphitheatre and most of the archaeological sites. The museum has a separate ticket.
