Mérida

Mérida is a municipality located in the province of Badajoz, Extremadura. It was founded in 25 BC by the Roman Emperor Octavian Augustus, receiving the name Emérita Augusta. It was the capital of Lusitania from its inception and one of the most important cities in Hispania.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Mérida continued to be an important city in the Visigothic Kingdom. Following the city’s capture by the Muslims, it began a slow decline. It was reconquered in the 13th century by King Alfonso IX of León. Since then, it has witnessed various significant historical events such as the conquest of the Americas and the French invasion.

Today, it is one of the best-preserved Roman cities, as evidenced by the fact that its ancient theatre still hosts theatrical performances.