Parador de Mérida

Spain – Extremadura – Badajoz – Mérida

18th-century convent

4-star

This beautiful white-walled former convent was built on the site of an ancient Roman temple, and indeed the town of Mérida contains the most important Roman remains in the whole of Spain, earning it its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town was founded by the Emperor Augustus in 25 bc as Emerita Augusta (the origin of the modern name), and became the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. The Roman buildings still visible include a triumphal arch, an aqueduct, two bridges and a theatre, where festivals of Greek and Roman drama are held every July. The Parador itself, built as a convent in the 18th century and in the city centre, has many historic features including arches, pillars, vaulted ceilings and an inner courtyard with gardens in the Moorish style. Facilities include an outdoor pool, a sauna and a gym, and there is a golf course only 8 km away. Specialities at the restaurant include Gazpacho (chilled vegetable soup), Calderata Extremeña (lamb stewed with vegetables and wine) and Técula Mécula (a dessert made with almonds and egg yolks).