Discovering Merida Spain

Mérida, Spain: A Journey Through Roman History

From Córdoba, we took a 4-hour bus trip through picturesque countryside with the famed white Andalusian villages dotting the hilltops to Mérida, which was on our way to Lisbon, our final destination.

Mérida, founded by the Romans in 25 BC as Emerita Augusta, served as a retirement colony for soldiers of the Roman legions. The town boasts an array of fascinating Roman ruins, including an ancient amphitheater, a theater, a circus, and an aqueduct that brought water to the town from the nearby mountains.

Unfortunately, many of the ancient ruins were closed due to the time of year we visited, but we could still wander around, peer through the fences, and get a general feel for the historical treasures on display. Despite the closures, the city’s rich Roman heritage was evident in every corner.

One of the most impressive sites is the Roman Theatre, still used today for performances, which offers a glimpse into the cultural life of ancient Rome. The Amphitheater, once hosting gladiatorial contests, stands as a testament to Roman engineering and entertainment. The Aqueduct of Los Milagros, with its towering arches, and the Temple of Diana, with its imposing columns, are also must-see sights that highlight Mérida’s Roman past.

We were not overly concerned that most sights were closed, as we had plenty of work to catch up on during our time in Mérida. Our accommodation, La Flor de Al’Andalus, was a real gem. Advertised as a hostel, it was far superior to any other hostel I had ever stayed at. In fact, it was better than many hotels I’ve experienced, offering large private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, great Wi-Fi, and an easy walk from the bus station and close to the center of town.

We also discovered a great little tapas bar (whose name I’ve forgotten, but it’s on the road behind the main square) that became packed with locals later in the evening. I loved their croquettes and their cod.

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