Merida is located in the Extremadura and it is a bit off the beaten track. It's too far to daytrip from Madrid and too far to daytrip from Seville. the Roman ruins are so spectacular however, that a detour is worthwhile.
Merida was one of the most important cities in Roman Spain, or Hispania. Its patrimony includes one of the world's largest classical theatres, an amphitheatre, tow aqueducts, a bridge, several churches and other buildings. It's Museum of Roman Art has a valuable collection for the classic era.
