Bilbilis

Bilbilis is an ancient Roman archaeological site in Aragon, Spain, identified as a former Roman town occupied in the Roman period. The site is noted for visible urban remains and its association with the Latin poet Martial.

Excavated stone foundations and street layouts reveal the plan of a Roman municipal centre, with clearly defined public and domestic sectors. Key visible elements include the remains of a forum area, a stone theatre and bath complexes, all exposed at ground level and accessible by walking paths.

The settlement was occupied during the Roman period and is recorded in classical sources; it was the hometown of Marcus Valerius Martialis (Martial), born in the 1st century AD. Excavations during the 20th century and later have uncovered the town plan and public buildings; the site today preserves archaeological ruins rather than reconstructed buildings.

The ruins lie in the province of Zaragoza in Aragon, in the valley of the Jalón river, a short distance from the modern urban area of Calatayud. The site sits on low hills overlooking agricultural land typical of the region.

• Literary connection: Associated with the Roman poet Marcus Valerius Martialis, who was born in the town in the 1st century AD.
• Visitor practicalities: Site is open-air and exposed to the elements, so bring sun or rain protection and wear sturdy footwear for uneven archaeological surfaces.

What to See #

• Forum and urban area: Remains of the Roman urban centre including visible foundations, street layouts and stone structures identified as public buildings and domestic blocks; excavations have exposed parts of a forum and residential areas.
• Theatre: A ruined stone theatre and associated structures that mark the town's public entertainment area.
• Baths and service buildings: Thermal complex and related infrastructure interpreted as Roman baths, with masonry remains and service rooms.