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Roman Theatre of Medellin
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The Roman Theatre of Medellín is located in the province of Badajoz, Extremadura, and is part of the archaeological park of the ancient city of Metellinum. It was constructed at the end of the 1st century BC during the reign of Emperor Augustus on the southern slope of the castle hill. The theatre utilized the natural incline of the terrain for the construction of the seating tiers (cavea), which is typical of Roman theatre architecture built on slopes. For centuries, the site remained hidden under layers of earth, which contributed to its exceptionally good state of preservation when systematic excavations began in 2007. Particularly noteworthy are the original marble floor remains in the orchestra and the remnants of the stage wall (scaenae frons), which was once adorned with columns and sculptures. Today, the theatre serves once again as a venue for cultural performances and stands as an outstanding example of Roman urbanization in the province of Lusitania.
- Location: Galicia, Spain
- Top sights: Castillo de Medellín · Playa de Medellín · Centro de Interpretación del Parque Arqueológico de Medellín
- Nearby: Don Benito (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 24 | 28 | 28 | 23 | 17 | 11 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 46 | 48 | 59 | 50 | 34 | 11 | 3 | 5 | 24 | 77 | 65 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Roman Theatre of Medellín can be visited and is an open-air facility. You can explore the well-preserved cavea and stage, offering insight into Roman architecture. The site is partly restored with information panels. There are no covered areas, so don't forget sun protection.
Typical hours
Opening hours follow a seasonal pattern: in summer months it is typically open longer, in winter shorter. On holidays it may be closed or have reduced hours. It is advisable to check local tourist information in advance.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use. The use of tripods and drones may require a permit and should be clarified in advance. Be careful not to touch or damage the ruins.
Time needed
A thorough visit takes about 1 hour if you examine the site and information boards at leisure. A quick visit takes about 30 minutes. Combine the visit with the nearby archaeological museum in Medellín.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Archaeological Museum of Medellín, which displays finds from Roman times. The old town of Medellín with its medieval buildings is also worth a walk.
Getting there
The theatre is on the edge of Medellín in the province of Badajoz. By car it is accessible via the EX-105 road; parking is available nearby. On foot, it is about a 15-minute walk from the town center.
Insider tip
Combine the visit with the nearby Roman bridge or the aqueduct remains. An afternoon visit provides good light conditions for photos.
Geography
Facts
- The theatre had a seating capacity for approximately 800 to 1,000 spectators.
- The cavea has a diameter of about 50 meters.
- Excavations revealed over 800 sculpture fragments and decorative elements.
- Metellinum was founded in 79 BC by the consul Quintus Caecilius Metellus Pius.
- The theatre underwent extensive renovation during the Flavian period in the late 1st century AD.
- Since 2014, the theatre has annually hosted an extension of the Mérida International Classical Theatre Festival.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Roman Theatre of Medellin (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was the theater discovered?
Systematic excavations only began in 2007, although the remains were known beforehand.
How many spectators could it hold?
It is estimated that the theater had a capacity for about 3,200 spectators.
Is the theater open to visitors?
Yes, it is part of the Medellín archaeological park and is open to visitors.
When was it originally built?
The theater dates back to the era of Emperor Augustus in the 1st century BC.
Is there parking nearby?
There are public parking spaces near the entrance to the archaeological site.
Roman Theatre of Medellin: where is it located?
Roman Theatre of Medellin is located in Galicia, Spain.
Roman Theatre of Medellin: what is there to see?
Highlights include Castillo de Medellín, Playa de Medellín, Centro de Interpretación del Parque Arqueológico de Medellín.
Roman Theatre of Medellin: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Roman Theatre of Medellin: why is it worth visiting?
The Roman Theatre of Medellín is located in the province of Badajoz, Extremadura, and is part of the archaeological park of the ancient city of Metellinum.
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