Temple of Diana travel guide

The Temple of Diana is a remarkable historical monument located in Merida, an ancient city in Spain. Constructed in the late 1st century BC or early 1st century AD, it was part of the Roman Forum, the city's main public area.

Originally, the temple was dedicated to the Imperial cult, not Diana, but the misinterpretation by local historians led to its current name. The temple is a classic example of a Roman peripteral temple, surrounded on all sides by a colonnade. It sits on a podium and originally had six columns along the front and back and eight along the sides.

In the 16th century, the Duke of Corbos built a palace within the temple's structure, which inadvertently aided in preserving the site. Today, the Temple of Diana is a centerpiece in Merida's archaeological ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-visit for history enthusiasts touring Spain.

The Temple of Diana stands out for its well-preserved Roman architecture. Despite its name, it was not actually dedicated to the goddess Diana, but likely to the Imperial cult. This unique attribution makes the temple an intriguing point of interest.

The temple is noteworthy for its asymmetrical design, a rarity amongst Roman structures. This deviation from the symmetrical norm is due to a 16th-century Renaissance palace built within the temple's columns, which adds a fascinating layer of history to the site.

The grand podium on which the temple stands is another distinguishing feature. The podium is almost completely intact, making it one of the most well-preserved in the Roman world. The temple also boasts an impressive colonnade, with six columns standing at the front and back, and a further eleven on each side. These Corinthian columns, with their distinctive fluted design and ornate capitals, add to the temple's majestic appearance.

The temple's location in the heart of Merida also sets it apart. It is an impressive sight amidst the city's modern buildings, a testament to Merida's Roman history.

Located in the dynamic Mérida, the popular Temple of Diana is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Mérida or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Spain.

Mérida is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Mérida offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Mérida and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Teatro Romano de Mérida, Roman Circus of Mérida, Acueducto de los Milagros, Casa del Mitreo y área funeraria de Los Columbarios, and National Museum of Roman Art.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Mérida has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Mérida, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Spain!

Temple of Diana is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Mérida, Spain. If you're flying in, Badajoz Airport is approximately 25.7 miles (41.4 km) away from Mérida. From there, you can easily reach Temple of Diana by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Mérida, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Temple of Diana, which is located 0.1 miles (0.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Temple of Diana, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Oficinas del Consorcio, C. Sta. Julia, 5, 06800 Mérida, Badajoz, Spain, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Temple of Diana!

The best time to explore the Temple of Diana largely depends on your preference for climate and crowd levels. For comfortable weather, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the most favorable seasons. These periods offer mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and lush scenery, making your visit more enjoyable and relaxed. The summer months of July and August can be quite hot, but they are ideal if you prefer a lively atmosphere, as Merida hosts the renowned Classical Theatre Festival during this period, which adds a unique cultural element to your visit. However, keep in mind that these months also attract the largest crowds. To avoid the peak daytime heat and large tour groups, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Regardless of the season, an evening visit is always mesmerizing, as the temple is beautifully lit up, creating a magical and unforgettable experience.

Conveniently explore Temple of Diana and plenty more captivating attractions in Mérida by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Temple of Diana and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Mérida has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Temple of Diana below.

Aside from Temple of Diana, Mérida is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Mérida, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Teatro Romano de Mérida, Roman Circus of Mérida, and Acueducto de los Milagros.

Teatro Romano de Mérida is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Mérida, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 37,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Teatro Romano de Mérida is Plaza Margarita Xirgu, s/n, 06800 Mérida, Badajoz, Spain.

Another appreciated attraction in Mérida is Roman Circus of Mérida. Like Teatro Romano de Mérida, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 9,500 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Av. De Juan Carlos I, s/n, 06800 Mérida, Badajoz, Spain.

Acueducto de los Milagros is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Mérida. This establishment and top attraction in Mérida has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,400 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Av. Vía de la Plata, S/N, 06800 Mérida, Badajoz, Spain.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Mérida below.