Baelo Claudia is one of Andalucia´s most significant and well-preserved Roman archeological sites. The extensive ruins are situated on the Costa de la Luz, some 15km north of Tarifa, by the small town of Bolonia and its beautiful beach. The site´s important history rests on the former city having been a strategic point for trade routes between Europe and North Africa; the Straits of Gibraltar are just 14km wide at their narrowest point, and Baelo Claudia profited from this proximity. The remains of the impressive temple, Forum, basilica, baths, aqueduct, and large fish-salting factory in particular, can all be seen today, giving an insight into the former glory of the city.
Baelo Claudia dates back to the Republican period of the 2nd century BC. The city´s central Forum was constructed under Augustus, but it wasn´t until the rule of Claudius (the city´s namesake, 41 – 54 AD) that the monumental complex of the city was established. It was during this time that the site acquired the status of a municipium, attaining its greatest urban and economic splendour.
