Spain's Enduring Roman Architectural Heritage

The Alcántara Bridge: A Roman Engineering Marvel

The Alcántara Bridge is a magnificent Roman arch bridge constructed between 104 and 106 AD. It majestically spans the Tagus River in the town of Alcántara, Cáceres. This impressive structure consists of six arches of unequal height, resting on five pillars that rise from different elevations above the hewn slate rock. At the center-top of the bridge stands a memorial shrine with a triumphal arch, reaching a height of 10 meters, famously known as the Arch of Trajan. The bridge itself is meticulously crafted from rusticated granite blocks, each measuring between 45 and 50 cm. Furthermore, at the foot of the bridge, there is a Roman temple dedicated to its constructor, Lácer, which was Christianized in the Middle Ages and renamed the Temple of Saint Julian.

The Segovia Aqueduct: An Enduring Roman Icon

The Aqueduct of Segovia stands as one of the most significant and best-preserved Roman monuments on the Iberian Peninsula. It is arguably the most important symbol for the people of Segovia, even featured on their city's shield.

This monumental structure is ingeniously constructed from granite blocks laid without mortar. During Roman times, the three tallest arches bore a cartouche with bronze letters, detailing the construction date and the builder. Additionally, two niches are visible at the top, one on each side of the aqueduct. Legend has it that one of these niches once held the image of the Egyptian Hercules, believed to be the city's founder. Today, these niches house images of the Virgin of Fuencisla (the city's patron saint) and Saint Stephen.

The aqueduct remains the most important architectural landmark of Segovia. Its continuous use throughout centuries has allowed it to survive in remarkable condition. Until very recently, it continued to supply water to the city of Segovia, particularly to its Alcázar. However, in recent years, it has experienced noticeable deterioration due to pollution.

Mérida Roman Theater: A Grand Ancient Stage

The Roman Theater in Mérida was commissioned by Consul Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa in the Roman city of Augusta Emerita. Its construction dates back to 15-16 BC.

Seating Area (Cavea)

The seating area, or cavea, is essentially a semicircular tier with a capacity for 6,000 spectators. It was divided into three main zones:

• Ima Cavea: The lowest section, with 22 rows of seating, reserved for the wealthier social classes. This part is excavated and supported by the natural slope of the land, without artificial supports, following Greek tradition and similar to other theaters in Spain. It is divided into five radial sectors (cunei) by stairs for movement.
• Media Cavea: The middle section, with 5 rows.
• Summa Cavea: The uppermost section, which is highly deteriorated today.

A horizontal corridor (praecinctio) separates the lower seating from the upper stands, which are supported by a complex system of arches and barrel vaults.

The Orchestra

The most prominent space was the orchestra, a semicircular area paved with white and blue marble. Here, on three tiers, mobile marble seating was placed for senators and high-ranking officials attending the performances. The orchestra was separated from the seating by a marble ledge, of which a fragment remains.

The Stage (Scaenae Frons)

The rectangular proscenium, the stage (or pulpitum), and finally the impressive stage front (scaenae frons) constitute the most spectacular and iconic part of the theater. Measuring 7.5 meters wide, 63 meters long, and 17.5 meters in total height, the scaenae frons consists of two bodies of Corinthian columns with marble bases and cornices. It is adorned with sculptures in the spaces between columns and features three openings: a central door known as the regia valva, and two lateral doors called hospitalia valvae. Strong setbacks are evident in the arrangement of the stones, reflecting the structural and compositional dynamism of the scene. The original stage front's appearance is unknown, as the current one appears to have been rebuilt under Emperor Trajan.

Post-Scene Area (Peristyle)

Complementing the main building is the entire post-scene area, or peristyle, built on a broad, quadrangular base. This area features a landscaped interior space, where irrigation gutters are still preserved. In the background, there is a small, marble-lined and paved cabin, possibly a chapel dedicated to the cult of the Roman Empire.