We were not sorry to leave Torremejia – a dispiriting place; shabby, where you would not be surprised to see Tumbleweed blowing down the street – hence no photos!
The only stopover that lacked any character; easy route out, parallel to the N360 highway; trundling on for our usual 90 minute stretch,when, taking a bag- break, we met up with our 4 Dutch friends.
Over an incline, and across the fields; cloudy above, but still warm enough…
We made decent time towards Merida, conditions underfoot varied from Tarmac to stony and rough – like most of the Camino in Extramedura.also, nearly all Olive groves and vineyards are fenced off and all Fincas are gated and locked.given the size of the inevitable guard dogs, that was reassuring at times! They take security very seriously.
We crossed in to Merida, over the Guadiana River, along the Roman Bridge, which took us into this Roman City.
We found our hotel; map from the Tourist Office helped.Very busy compared to the quiet villages we had become used to so far , but a welcome change nevertheless.
Took a stroll around , but our legs were telling us to stop!
So,after an hour or so, a Siesta called, but we took in one or two Roman remains.
We treated ourselves to a slightly special meal; a change, good as they are, from the usual Menu Del Dia.Walking back,across the Plaza De Espana,who should we chance to meet but our Dutch Pelegrinos.After a glass of Pacharan with them , we headed back to the hotel.
Tomorrow,Saturday, Tomorrow, we should be reinvigorated enough to enjoy the Roman sites.
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The origins of Merida have been dated back to 25 years before Christ when Emperor Octavio Augusto ordered the construction of a city to house retired soldiers of the V and X Legions. Much of modern Merida is built on Roman foundations and many of the most important buildings have been uncovered and preserved for all ….. |
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