Have you ever wondered if there are Roman ruins in Madrid? The answer is yes! Despite not being as famous as other Roman cities like Segovia or Merida, Madrid has some fascinating remnants of the Roman era that are worth exploring.
The Origins of Madrid
Madrid’s history goes back to the 9th century when it was founded by the Muslim empire. However, it wasn’t until the 16th century that Madrid became Spain’s capital city. Before then, the region belonged to various civilizations, including the Celts and Romans.
The Roman Empire in Madrid
During the Roman Empire’s reign, Madrid was known as “Matrice” and was a significant commercial hub due to its strategic location on the banks of the Manzanares River. The Romans built several public buildings and infrastructure, some of which can still be seen today.
The Temple of Debod
The Temple of Debod is one of Madrid’s most popular tourist attractions and a remnant of the Roman occupation. This ancient Egyptian temple was given to Spain by Egypt as a thank you for helping save their temples from flooding during the construction of Aswan Dam.
The temple dates back to 200 BC and was dedicated to Amun and Isis. It was dismantled piece by piece from its original location and rebuilt in Madrid’s Parque del Oeste in 1971.
The Walls of Madrid
Another impressive remnant from Madrid’s Roman past is its walls. Although many sections have been lost over time, there are still some parts that you can see today in Cuesta de la Vega.
These walls were built around 300 AD for defensive purposes during a time when Germanic invaders threatened Rome’s territories. They were made up of small stones held together with mortar and featured towers at strategic points.
The Casa de la Villa
The Casa de la Villa is a stunning building located in the Plaza Mayor in Madrid. It was originally built in the 17th century but sits on top of Roman ruins that were discovered during renovations in the 20th century.
These ruins include thermal baths, a well, and a section of the old Roman road that connected Toledo and Zaragoza. Visitors can see some of these remains through a glass floor in the building’s basement.
Conclusion
Madrid may not be as well-known for its Roman ruins as other Spanish cities, but it certainly has some impressive remnants from this era. The Temple of Debod, walls, and Casa de la Villa are just a few examples of how Madrid’s history is still visible today.
If you’re visiting Madrid and interested in history, make sure to add these sites to your itinerary. They provide a unique insight into the city’s past and are sure to leave you with lasting memories.