A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Mérida: The Roman Jewel of Extremadura

Mérida, located in the province of Badajoz, in the autonomous community of Extremadura, Spain, is a city rich in history and culture. It was founded by the Roman Emperor Augustus in 25 BC, and was the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. Today, Mérida is famous for its numerous and well-preserved Roman remains, which have earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Roman Theatre

The Roman Theatre is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Mérida. This impressive building, dating from 16 BC, can accommodate more than 3,000 spectators and is still used today for theatrical performances, especially during the Classical Theatre Festival held every summer.

The Roman Amphitheatre

Right next to the Roman Theatre is the Amphitheatre, built in 8 BC. This venue, where gladiator fights and chariot races were held, could accommodate about 15,000 spectators. Its oval design and the ingenious distribution of the accesses allowed for a quick evacuation of the premises.

The Roman Bridge

The Roman Bridge over the Guadiana River is another icon of Mérida. With a length of 792 meters and 60 arches, it is one of the longest preserved Roman bridges. It was a key piece in the Via de la Plata, one of the main trade routes of Roman Hispania.

The Temple of Diana

The Temple of Diana is one of the few preserved Roman religious buildings in Mérida. Although its name is actually a conjecture, as it is not known to which deity it was dedicated, this temple from the 1st century BC impresses with its size and the enormous granite columns that still stand.

The Arab Alcazaba

Mérida also has important remains from the Arab era, such as the Alcazaba. This fortress, built in the 9th century on an old Roman castle, is the oldest in the Iberian Peninsula. From its walls, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Guadiana River and the Roman Bridge.

The National Museum of Roman Art

To complete the visit to Mérida, one must not miss the National Museum of Roman Art. Designed by the architect Rafael Moneo, the museum houses an impressive collection of objects from the Roman era, including mosaics, sculptures, coins, and everyday utensils.

Mérida is a city that invites you to travel back in time and discover the secrets of one of the most important civilizations in history. Its rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination for lovers of history and archaeology.

Gastronomic Products of Mérida

• La Serena Cheese

  La Serena cheese is a typical product of the Badajoz region, including Mérida. This cheese is made with milk from the Merino sheep, a native breed of the region. It has a creamy texture and an intense and characteristic flavor, making it one of the most appreciated cheeses in Spain.

• Lamb Caldereta

  The lamb caldereta is one of the most traditional dishes of Mérida's cuisine. It is a lamb stew with potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. This dish is usually prepared on special occasions and is highly appreciated for its intense and succulent flavor.

• Extremaduran Migas

  The Extremaduran migas are another typical dish of Mérida. They are made with stale bread, garlic, peppers, chorizo, and other ingredients, which are fried together until a crispy and tasty mixture is obtained. This dish is very popular in the region and is often served as a tapa in many bars and restaurants.

• Wines from the Ribera del Guadiana

  Mérida is located in the Ribera del Guadiana wine region, which is known for its excellent wines. The wines from this region are varied, from fresh and fruity whites to robust and complex reds. These wines are the perfect accompaniment to the typical dishes of Mérida's cuisine.

Sporting Activities in Mérida

Hiking

Mérida offers hiking routes that will allow you to enjoy its rich flora and fauna. You can explore the Route of the Mills, a journey that will take you through ancient water mills and beautiful natural landscapes.

Cycling

The city has several cycling routes that will allow you to get to know its surroundings in a different way. One of the most popular is the Green Way of the Vegas of the Guadiana and the Villuercas, which runs along old train tracks.

Canoeing

The Guadiana River, which runs through Mérida, is the perfect place to practice canoeing. There are several companies that offer equipment rental and guided tours, both for beginners and experts.

Golf

If you are a golf lover, Mérida has the Don Tello Golf Club, an 18-hole course that offers stunning views of the city and its natural surroundings.

Places near Merida

If you're in Merida and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Trujillo, a historical gem located in the province of Cáceres, Extremadura, is a city that seems to have stopped in time. With its impressive medieval and Renaissance architecture, Trujillo is a tourist destination that offers a unique insight into the history of Spain.

Caceres, a medieval gem of Extremadura, Spain, captivates with its ancient architecture, cobblestone streets and a vibrant culinary scene offering local delights such as Torta del Casar, Iberian ham and wines from the region.