Baelo Claudia

Tarifa, Spain

Baelo Claudia is a well preserved Roman city in Andalucia, Spain, founded in the 2nd century BC. The town was important for fish processing. It was also a centre for trade with Roman towns in North Africa.

The life of the inhabitants reached its greatest splendor during the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD. In the middle of the 2nd century, however, the town declined, probably as a result of a major earthquake which wiped out a large part. In addition to such natural disasters, by the 3rd century, the town was beset by hordes of pirates, both Germanic and Barbary. Although it experienced a slight renaissance later in the century, by the 6th century, the town had been abandoned.

Excavations have revealed the most comprehensive remains of a Roman town in the whole of the Iberian Peninsula, with extremely interesting monuments such as the basilica, theatre, market, and the temple of Isis. Today you can visit the museum, walk around the remains, and admire the scenic location.

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Founded: Roman
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Spain

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4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Lukas Genutis (2 years ago)
Very interesting location, was surprised it is free for al EU citizens, but the locations is extremely well kept with looking like a modern entrance building and all the pathways. Curious to imagine what it was like back then 2000y ago. Spent a good half an hour walking, worth it if you are passing by, its some of history and very old one.
David Hopkins (2 years ago)
Visited the Roman ruins in Bolonia right next to the beach. the Roman city is absolutely amazing with the fishery area where they salted the tuna for preservation. The main forum where the politicians debated is still in amazing condition. The Colosseum where they performed the shows is in a very very good condition. The houses in the ruins are absolutely amazing with their own baths. Would highly recommend a visit to this Roman city to see just how far advanced they were.
T West (2 years ago)
How does one rate living history, but to experience it? What makes this Roman ruins site exceptional is the beautiful beach and hills nearby. Because of the isolation of nearby Bolonia, one really feels walking through the ruins one is experiencing life as the Romans did, with Africa in the distance. There were no lines to enter. Parking was convenient. There was no charge for Americans.
DOEY GUASCH (2 years ago)
Perfect quick museum trip! The location is fantastic! The ruins was awesome, and to think that this was 2000 years old! Bed at least 2-3 hours to absorb what you're seeing. Maybe because it was a holy week, entrance was free.
Edward Dewe (2 years ago)
Well preserved little Roman city by the sea. Free entry and set in a beautiful uncrowded bay. Very easy to imagine what it must have looked like 2000 years ago
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