Roman Theatre of Merida

This spectacular Roman theatre, built around 15 BC, once seated 6000. The stage backdrop — two tiers of Corinthian columns — is remarkably preserved and still used for performances during the summer Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico. It's possibly the most impressive Roman ruin in all of Spain, and the adjacent amphitheatre, circus, and Museo Nacional de Arte Romano make Mérida a Roman archaeology powerhouse.