25 Most Amazing Roman Ruins in Spain
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When people think of Spain, they often think of urban areas with tapas, flamenco, and beautiful beaches, but many do not realize it is a great place to glimpse ancient Rome. The Roman Empire was expansive and included territories along the Asian, African, and Mediterranean coasts – including the Iberian Peninsula. In fact, Spain has some of the best Roman ruins in Europe.
If you are traveling to Spain, it is worth spending a day or two exploring a few of the most important sites. There are great options throughout the country to see the remains of amphitheatres, bridges, walls, and even villas. Here is a list of the best Roman ruins in Spain.
Roman Walls of Lugo
Hundreds of people visit Lugo each year because it is located along a less-traveled part of the Santiago de Compostela. One gem that often goes unnoticed, however, is the Roman Wall that encloses the city.
With 85 towers, ten gates, and a length over 2 km, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is so impressive that China’s ambassador named it the Great Wall’s twin. Like its counterpart, the Roman fortification is a walking path that is 8 -10 metres high in some areas and provides the most amazing views of the city.
Las Médulas
If you are looking for the perfect spot to spend the morning or early afternoon in Castilla y León, Las Médulas is a magical place with stunning views of red crags interspersed with green foliage.
During the 1st century, this site was the most important mine in the Roman Empire. It was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the incredible landscape created by a devastating mining practice called “ruina montium,” in which water was injected deep into the ground to shear the rock away from veins of gold.
What to do at Las Médulas Natural Monument?
You have several options for activities whilst visiting the archaeological park. A short walk from the designated parking, you can explore the man-made caves at the Galerías de Orellán and then head over to the viewpoint for photos. Don’t forget to bring a snack so you can picnic at one of many scenic areas among trees or by a river.
If you’re looking for something more active, then definitely take on the hiking trail which will allow you to fully explore the area. The hike will be amazing and I promise you won’t regret going on this adventure.
Villa de Almenara – Puras
The Museum of Roman Villas is a must-see for anyone who loves history. It is divided into three main areas: an elevated walkway over the vestiges of a 4th century home with frescos and mosaics, an exhibition hall, and a life-size replica of a typical villa complete with furnishings.
Exploring the recreated lobby, peristyle, kitchen, and living spaces of ancient Rome allows you to really imagine the daily living of their inhabitants.
Villa Romana La Olmeda and La Tejada
Situated in Castile y León, La Olmeda was discovered in 1968 when a farmer drove his tractor over an ancient wall. The sophisticated and wonderfully preserved 4th-century villa has 35 rooms, of which 26 are intricately decorated with colorful mosaics that still retain their original beauty. This makes it a must-see for both tourists and locals alike.
Once you have seen everything drive 25 minutes to see a less frequented hidden gem: Villa Romana La Tejada. Occupied from the 1st to 5th century AD, it features 13 rooms lined with mosaics depicting mythological, marine, and allegorical scenes.
You can also see a bath complex and an in-floor heating system. It’s the perfect complement to La Olmeda.
Aqueduct of Segovia
The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of three Roman-era UNESCO World Heritage sites in Spain, making it a must-see if you are in the area. Locals refer to it as El Puente del Diablo because legend has it that the devil created it for a young girl in exchange for her soul. Not much is known about the actual construction, unfortunately, but experts believe it to be from the 2nd century AD.
The aqueduct was a significant water supply system in Roman Hispania as it supplied an estimated 20-30 liters of water per second or 2.2 million liters each day. And because it was in use until the mid-19th century, it is well preserved.
The system carried water from the Frío River to the centre of the city – giving it a total length of 16,186 metres. It has 120 pillars and 167 arches that range from 9 metres to 28 metres in height. The 24,000 granite block and mortar-free structure is truly an engineering feat.
The aqueduct can be seen at several different locations throughout the city but the view in the centre is, inarguably, the most impressive. I recommend taking a stroll along the nearby river, afterward, to see the aqueduct’s interpretation centre at El Casa de Moneda.
Ruïnes d’Empúries / Ampurias
Situated in Northeastern Spain, Ampurias is along the Costa Brava, an area known as one of Catalonia’s most popular seaside destinations. It was initially founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC as a strategic port. By the end of the 2nd century, however, the Roman city of Emporiae had been established to control the region.
The Greco-Roman site has remnants of both Greek and Roman architecture that you can explore; and although only 20-25% of the city has been excavated so far, there is still a lot to see.
Visible portions of the Greek plan are from the Hellenistic period and include the Agora (public square), Stoa (covered walkway with shops), a Salt factory, and various religious buildings dedicated to Greek and Egyptian gods.
The Roman structures consist of public baths, basilica, ampitheatre, and much more. A particularly interesting section is the Capitoline Temple due to its scale and partial reconstruction.
MUHBA Plaça del Rei
Tucked away in the heart of Barcelona is Plaça del Rei, a magnificent site with 4,000 square metres of subterranean ruins that date from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD. This ancient city, known by the Romans as Barcino, was accidentally discovered in the 1930s when construction workers were relocating Casa Padellàs to make way for a new road.
The complex features glass catwalks and extensive tunnels that transport you back in time. You can easily spend several hours exploring the underground streets. Along the way you will see wine and garum (fish sauce) factories, laundry facilities as well as an early church. This incredible experience is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Archaeological Ensemble of Tarragona
The Archaeological Ensemble of Tarragona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the city of Tarraco, a Roman military port established in 217 BC. Unfortunately, the city is often skipped in favor of nearby Barcelona; but it is a gem of the Mediterranean and home to some incredible ruins.
The ruins are a fantastic place to walk around and have little to no crowds. Some of the highlights include an amphitheatre with amazing beach views in the background and one of the best-preserved Roman circuses in the world. Easily accessible from Barcelona, I recommend taking that hour train ride – it will be worth every second.
Ferreres Aqueduct
Just outside of Tarragona’s centre you will find Ferreres Aqueduct – known locally as Pont de Diable. Built in the first century to supply water to Tarraco, it is an excellent example of Roman engineering.
The 27 metre tall structure is in exceptional condition and, because it is located in a park surrounded by nature, it is a perfect way to escape the heavily trafficked tourist sites. I recommend walking across the top to take in the spectacular views.
Afterward, you can head to the Roman Villa of Centelles. It isn’t as large as other sites but hosts a modest amount of partially restored frescos.
Parque Arqueológico de Carranque
Located approximately 40 km from Madrid, in the province of Toledo, you will find Carranque Archaeological Park. It was discovered in 1983 when a local farmer spotted mosaic tiling beneath the soil. So far, excavation has revealed a settlement that occupied at least 18 hectares of land near the Guadarrama river.
Not much is known about the history of Carranque, but the settlement is thought to have emerged in the late 3rd or early 4th century AD. Evidence of facilities used to store and press olives, tread grapes, and decant products suggests it was an agricultural centre focused on the production of oil and wine. Now it is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Spain thanks to the Castilla-La Mancha Archaeological Parks Department, which opened it to the public in 2003.
Casa de Materno is, inarguably, the most impressive part of the park. Named after its former owner and the uncle of Emperor Theodosius the Great – Maternus Cingius, it consists of 1200 m2 of rooms organized around a central peristyle or atrium. While the walls are no longer standing, beautifully preserved floor mosaics depicting geometric designs, plants, and mythological scenes are still visible throughout most of the space.
Parque Arqueológico de Segóbriga
Segóbriga Archaeological Park is located in the countryside of Castilla-la Mancha and, without a city built overtop, it has remained a hidden gem. Originally a Celtic Iberian settlement, it became a tributary when it was conquered by Rome in the 2nd century BC. Gypsum mining and local glass production helped the town flourish and by the end of the 1st century it had been upgraded in status to a Roman municipality.
The town layout is well preserved and walking through the area will give you an idea of what daily life was like. Remains of the forum, baths, basilica, and walls are visible but the well-preserved theatre and ampitheatre are most impressive.
As you move further from what would have been the centre, there is clear evidence of a circus and three cemeteries: Roman, Christian, and Visigoth.
Roman Villa of Noheda
The Villa of Noheda, which is located near Cuenca, is a 25-acre country estate from the late Roman period. Not much is known about the owner except he was extremely wealthy and, more than likely, a part of the ruling class. This is evidenced by over 30 different types of marble found onsite and a spectacular mosaic located in the triclinium (formal dining room).
The mosaic, which has 291 square metres of glass tesserae, is the largest mosaic in the world. It features six separate scenes featuring mythological themes such as Dionysus, the life of Paris, and the abduction of Helen. This remarkable piece of art is a must-see.
Afterward, if you want to enjoy the countryside a little more, you could opt to include La Ciudad Romana de Valeria and/or the Yacimiento de Ercávica in your itinerary.
Teatro Romano de Sagunto
Although there are several examples of Roman theatres throughout Spain, the one in Sagunto is particularly interesting due to the controversial restoration that took place in the 1990s. The original first-century structure, which was planned during the reign of Augustus and completed in 50 AD, was almost entirely rebuilt.
The decision to renovate instead of preserving the original site continued to be an issue for over a decade. In fact, it narrowly avoided being torn down in 2008 when the Spanish Supreme Court ruled that the current theatre was a new and separate entity sitting on top of the original ruin that had been declared a Spanish National Monument in 1896.
Terraced into the side of a mountain, the 8,000-seat theatre hosts an annual summer festival called “Sagunt a Escena” that features a mix of contemporary plays and traditional Greek and Roman classics. The theatre is free to visit and open to the public all year except during the festival program.
Centre Arqueològic de l’Almoina
The La Almoina Archaeological Museum is often overlooked in favor of the more famous tourist destinations, but it’s underneath Valencia that you will find amazing ruins highlighting the historical evolution of the city. Transparent walkways allow you to walk through the streets of Roman, Visigoth, and Moorish settlements.
The glass roof, which acts as the basin of the above-ground water feature, provides an illusory effect. One moment you are standing next to 2nd-century Roman baths, and suddenly there’s the shimmer of water filling the space.
In addition to the baths, you can see two important Roman roads, the Muslim Plaza Mayor, and more. Digital reconstruction of buildings will submerge you in the past.
Roman Theatre of Cartagena
Built during the reign of Augustus, the Roman Theatre in Cartagena is a fantastic place to visit. A unique feature of this site is its placement within the modern cityscape. Because the area has been in continuous use since the Romans, the theatre continues to be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the city much the way it was originally designed.
The ancient venue is wonderfully well preserved and can be accessed by walking through the tunnel in the Museo Teatro Roman that is located off Plaza Ayuntamiento. Once you emerge into the theatre, walk up to the upper rows for amazing panoramic views. If you want to walk just a little further toward the top, there is a small park where you can enjoy even more stunning views or just sit and people watch. You won’t be disappointed.
Ruinas Romanas de Mérida
Mérida is one of the most historically rich cities in Spain, and it’s no surprise since it is home to some incredible ruins. The remains of the Roman city Emerita Augusta date back to 25 BC when it was the capital of Lusitana, an essential province near what is now Portugal.
The UNESCO site is a well-conserved ensemble with several points of interest, including a beautiful Roman bridge with 60 semicircular arches and that spans almost 800 metres. The real gem, though, is the theatre. Not only is it extraordinary to see, it is also the oldest still-functioning theatre in the world.
If you are there in the summer, treat yourself to a performance during the International Festival of Classical Theatre which features concerts as well as plays. Visit the Festival de Merida website to see what’s on.
Baelo Claudia
Along the coast of Andalucía, you will find one of the most underrated archaeological sites on this list. Baelo Claudia, founded in the 2nd century BC, served as an important industrial town until the 6th century when it experienced a series of earthquakes and, later, pirate attacks. Until then, it was a pivotal component to the North African trade route exporting tuna, salted fish, and garum – a fermented fish sauce.
Visitors will find the remains of a Roman city replete with roads, sewer maxima, amphitheatre, forum, basilica, baths, and a fish-salting factory. There are also individual temples dedicated to Minerva, Jupiter, Juno, and the Egyptian goddess Isis. After seeing the archeological complex, head to the onsite museum and two nearby beaches.
Conjunto Arqueológico de Itálica
Located in Santiponce near Seville, the Archaeological Park of Italica is one of the most remarkable Roman ruins in Spain. It is a large archaeological complex with streets, baths, commercial establishments, aqueducts, theatre, cistern, and a large amphitheatre.
Originally founded in 206 BC as a convalescent area for veterans, it was the first Roman city in Hispania. Over time it became known as the City of Emperors because Trajan, Hadrian and, possibly, Theodosius were born there.
It is interesting to note that the ampitheatre was one of the largest in the empire and could seat 25,000 spectators.
Ruinas de Acinipo
Known by locals as Ronda la Vieja (The Old Ronda), Acinipo is not as polished as more popular sites, but the appeal is that it is not overrun with tourists. In fact, you may find yourself alone – able to sit, enjoy the pastoral setting, and contemplate life, the universe, and everything.
This hidden gem is located on a bed of limestone 999 metres above sea level and its easily defensible location may be why the area was so popular. Evidence has revealed that it was occupied off and on as early as the Copper Age. It wasn’t until the Romans settled the area in 206 BC, however, that major construction works took place.
Because the site was never fully excavated, most of the ancient city remains beneath the soil. While there are a few points of interest, the true highlights are the amazing views and the last century BC theatre that was carved directly into the bedrock.
Baños Romanos de la Hedionda
If you are looking for something completely off the beaten path that combines relaxation with a tad of adventure, you need to experience the Roman Baths of Hedionda. This unspoilt area, located in a secluded natural environment near the Rio de Manilva, is still in use today.
While not much is known about the history of the site, except that it was originally constructed by the Romans and later remodeled by the Arabs, it is generally accepted that the baths were commissioned in the 1st century BC after the sulfuric properties cured Roman troops of scabies. A more fanciful legend, however, states that the sulfurous water was created as the devil expelled his last breath.
While there you can spend time relaxing outside in several shallow pools with beautiful turquoise water and then enter an enclosed Roman bath with two vaulted galleries. The constant 21°C temperature will leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Afterward, walk along the river to see the aqueduct bridge.
Museo Arqueológico Nacional
While not an archaeological site, this list would not be complete without the Museo Arqueológico Nacional in Madrid. Known as a centre for research and conservation, it contains one of the most important collections of mosaics in the world.
The mosaics are beautifully preserved and a must-see for anyone interested in art history or Roman culture. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Conclusion
The Romans occupied the Iberian Peninsula for over 600 years and, during that time, introduced major architectural and engineering works such as roads, fortifications, and even irrigation for both olive and wine production. It is no surprise that evidence of their culture can still be found throughout the area today.
In fact, if you look closely enough, you can pick out remnants of bridges or columns in just about any Spanish city. With so many incredible opportunities to see Roman ruins in Spain, this is just a list of my favorites.
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