Roman temple of Alcántara

The Roman temple of Alcántara is an ancient stone structure positioned next to the city's famous bridge, featuring two Tuscan columns flanking its entrance. Its rectangular layout contains a single interior chamber and is built from uniform granite blocks, with an external staircase providing access to the main entrance.

This structure was built around 103 CE during the reign of Emperor Trajan as a Roman religious monument. During the medieval period, it was repurposed into a Christian place of worship, marking a significant shift in its function and meaning.

The structure was repurposed as a chapel dedicated to Saint Julian following medieval conquest, transforming it into a place of Christian worship. This conversion shows how Roman buildings were adapted to fit new religious needs across centuries.

The temple sits directly beside Alcántara Bridge and is easy to locate near this well-known landmark. Access is gained via the external staircase, and visitors benefit from exploring the area on foot to appreciate both the temple and bridge within their surrounding landscape.

The architect who designed and built this structure was laid to rest within the temple itself, a burial practice that honored his role in its creation. This unusual choice reflects the importance placed on both the building and its creator in Roman times.

Location: Alcántara

Architectural style: ancient Roman architecture

GPS coordinates: 39.72171,-6.89155

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:04