Description
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ROMAN ART
Book Summary
This publication offers a guided tour through the history, objectives, and collections of the National Museum of Roman Art in Mérida. The reader will find a clear and accessible synthesis that contextualizes the most significant Roman archaeological heritage on the Iberian Peninsula, presented in a didactic and visually polished manner. Ideal for those who wish to understand the importance of this museum as a custodian of the memory of the ancient colony of Augusta Emerita.
What is it about?
The work presents a brief description of the origin and evolution of the National Museum of Roman Art, located in Mérida. It explains the institution's founding objectives, which focus on the conservation, research, and dissemination of the Roman legacy in Hispania. It then takes the reader on a tour of the most significant collections, covering sculpture, epigraphy, mosaics, ceramics, and everyday objects, all sourced from the city's archaeological excavations. The text highlights the architecture of the building itself, designed by Rafael Moneo, as a container that engages in a dialogue with the pieces on display.
Main Topics
- History and foundation of the National Museum of Roman Art in Mérida.
- Institutional objectives for the conservation, research, and outreach of Roman heritage.
- Description of archaeological collections: sculpture, epigraphy, mosaics, and everyday objects.
- Historical context of Augusta Emerita as a Roman colony in Hispania.
- Architecture of the museum designed by Rafael Moneo and its integration with the exhibited pieces.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at museum visitors looking for a quick-reading guide, students of archaeology and art history seeking an introduction to the heritage of Mérida, and anyone interested in Roman culture in Spain who wants to learn about one of the country's most important monographic museums.
What this book offers
- A general and accessible overview of the museum's history and collections.
- Historical context that enriches an in-person visit or prior study.
- Information regarding the museographic and architectural criteria of the building.
- A light and manageable resource to consult during or after your visit.
Technical Specifications
- Author: Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport. area d
- Publisher: Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport. area d
- Language: Spanish
- Topic: EXHIBITION AND SPECIFIC COLLECTION CATALOGUES
- Collection: TBD. COLLECTION
- Binding: Other
- Publication date: January 2011
- Number of pages: 72
- Weight: 99 g
Editorial Assessment
This is an institutional, informative publication that successfully fulfills its function of presenting the essential content of the National Museum of Roman Art in a succinct and organized manner. Its brevity and light format make it a practical companion for the visitor, although those seeking an exhaustive analysis of the pieces or the history of the site should turn to more extensive catalogues. It is a recommended option for a first approach to the museum and its heritage.

