Merida

Merida. 1. An ancient town in Spain, stands on the Guadiana, 36 miles E. of Badajoz. As Augusta Emerita it was the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. Memorials of its history are a

Moorish palace, and Roman remains, including a fine bridge, and the Arch of Santiago, both of which were built by Trajan.

2. The chief town of Yucatan, a province of Mexico, founded in 1542. It has a cathedral, university, public library, and conservatory of music.

3. The capital of the state of Los Andes, Venezuela, stands more than 5,000 feet above the level of the sea. It is a university and cathedral city, and manufactures carpets. In 1812 an earthquake did great damage.