Over the course of its busy history, the building that now houses the Parador de Mérida has had different uses, including as a hospital, insane asylum and even a jail. Today it still houses historical remains dating back 2000 years. The interior cloister and Jardín de Antigüedades (Garden of Antiquities), a collection of Mudejar, Roman and Visigothic archaeological pieces, are both truly fascinating locations. The Parador stands on a peaceful square painted with orange trees. It is five minutes from the Roman theater, the jewel of Mérida's monuments, with an incredible stage that still hosts performances.
The amphitheater, where gladiatorial games, wild beast hunts and battles between wild animals were held on the large wooden platforms that formed the arena; Roman circus, one of the grandest and best preserved in the Empire; Los Milagros Aqueduct; Roman bridge; and Temple of Diana are other must-sees.
This city overflowing with vestiges of the past inspires calm and peace, revealing secrets like the beautiful sunsets over the waters of the Guadiana River. Here everything can be perfect.
Who has not heard of the Roman theater at Mérida, or its Roman circus? Who has not been told that a visit to this beautiful city, known by some as the Spanish Rome, should not be missed? In Mérida, a magnificent Parador awaits you. Located in the heart of the city, it offers the opportunity to discover a wealth of heritage without having to worry about driving. The hotel is a former 18th-century convent built atop the remains of a temple dedicated to the Augustan Concord. It is the perfect combination of tradition, comfort and good service, from which you can explore Roman, Visigoth and Arab Mérida, as well as the modern, contemporary city.
Mérida is 60 km from Badajoz and 330 km from Madrid via the A-5. It is 70 km from Cáceres and 200 km from Seville via the A-66.