DAY 30 - MÉRIDA (Rest Day) - Wednesday 22 May 2024

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We had breakfast and a long chat with our host, topics ranging from storks on the aqueduct to Spanish politics to Australian animals. A trip to the laundromat was next, a kind local guiding us through the process. While our clothes were in the washing machine, we visited the crypt and basilica of Santa Eulalia. It was very interesting seeing the layers of history. 

With our chores done, we headed out to the Museo Nacional de Arte Romano, where they display many valuable Roman artefacts from the surrounding area - mosaics, statues, pottery etc.

After building up our sightseeing stamina with a three course menu del día, we visited the amphitheatre, where gladiator fights used to take place, and the nearby theatre, used for drama performances and civic events. The festival of Emerita Ludica, where Mérida celebrates its Roman heritage, starts today, and workmen were setting up seating. 

Our next stop was the Temple of Diana. Different civilisations recycle the building materials of the past, and this was very evident here. We also saw people dressed as Romans, ready for the festival launch. 

After this we headed for the Alcazaba, the fort. We viewed inside the walls first - the cistern, Roman house ruins, Arab garden etc and then toured the walls. 

In the evening we did a quick tour through Trajan's Arch and up to the Temple of Diana, enjoying the lively markets and 'Romans' out celebrating the festival.

An encounter with some Romans off to join the Emerita Ludica festivities at the Temple of Diana
The basilica and crypt of local martyr Santa Eulalia
A highlight of our rest day in Mérida 
Wandering in the National Museum of Roman Art - another highlight of our day in Mérida 
Some of the exhibits that caught our eye in the National Museum of Roman Art
Roman amphitheatre in Mérida - another highlight
Roman amphitheatre 
Roman theatre - yet another highlight
Roman theatre
Gardens behind the Roman theatre
Expressive statue outside the theatre
Apparently a statue of a long-distance walker
Temple of Diana, Mérida. Yes, another highlight. 
The Alcazaba (Moorish fortress)
Many people in the crowd tonight were turned out in period dress for the Emerita Ludica festival
Bird.  Yes, it's a stork. 
Day 30 - Map

Day:                                30
Distance:                       0 km
Walking time:               0 hrs 0 mins
Elevation gain:             0 meters
Cumulative distance: 524.01 km

Comments

  1. Murray and Sandra15 July 2024 at 07:19

    Wow. If I ever manage to get to Spain Merida will be on my list. The roman history there looks fantastic.

    ReplyDelete

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