equestrian statue of Augustus

The Equestrian Statue of Augustus is a bronze sculpture depicting the first Roman emperor mounted on horseback, standing on a roundabout in Mérida at the junction of Avenida de Portugal and Avenida Reina Sofía. Despite honoring the city's ancient past, the statue itself is a modern creation, dating from 2007, and has since become a recognizable landmark in the newer part of Mérida.

Why Augustus?

The choice of subject is far from arbitrary. It was Augustus who, in 25 BC, ordered the founding of the colony of Emerita Augusta — the city known today as Mérida. The settlement was established as a retreat for emeritus veterans of the Roman legions V Alaudae and X Gemina after they completed their military service. The modern name "Mérida" is itself a direct descendant of "Emerita." The equestrian statue therefore acts as a tribute to the city's founder, keeping its Roman origins visible to residents and visitors alike.

What will you see?

The sculpture shows Augustus in a pose typical of triumphal Roman statuary — upright, commanding, and dignified. Positioned at the center of the roundabout, the emperor on horseback is visible from multiple directions to drivers and pedestrians moving between different parts of the city. It's worth remembering that this is not an archaeological artifact but a contemporary reinterpretation of a historical motif — genuine Roman remains can be found elsewhere in Mérida, such as the Roman Theatre and the Amphitheatre.

How to get there?

The statue stands at the intersection of Avenida de Portugal and Avenida Reina Sofía, in an easily accessible part of the city outside the historic core. It's most convenient to reach on foot or by car, since the roundabout sits along one of Mérida's main traffic routes. Given that it occupies a functioning road junction, the best way to view the statue is from a safe distance, such as the sidewalk along one of the adjoining avenues.

When to visit?

Mérida lies in the Extremadura region, where summers can get very hot, so spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the most comfortable seasons for exploring the city and its surroundings. Since the statue sits in an open, exposed location, it's best visited in the morning or late afternoon, avoiding the harshest midday sun.

What to pair it with?

The Equestrian Statue of Augustus fits naturally into a broader route tracing Mérida's Roman history. The city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wealth of ancient monuments, offers nearby attractions including the Roman Theatre, the Amphitheatre, and the Roman bridge over the Guadiana River. Consider the statue a fitting introduction to the story of the city's founding before heading on to its larger archaeological sites.

Frequently asked questions

Is the equestrian statue of Augustus an ancient monument? No. The sculpture dates from 2007 and was created as a modern tribute to the city's founder — it is not an original Roman artifact.

Why is Augustus connected to Mérida? In 25 BC, he ordered the founding of the colony of Emerita Augusta as a settlement for veteran soldiers of the Roman legions. The city's modern name derives directly from this origin.

Where exactly is the statue located? On a roundabout at the junction of Avenida de Portugal and Avenida Reina Sofía in Mérida.

Is it worth visiting? It's a quick stop, ideal as a complement to a tour of the city's Roman monuments — it doesn't require much time but adds useful historical context to a visit to Mérida.