In the heart of Mérida, a city in Extremadura with a Roman heritage, stands the Museum of Roman Art, one of Rafael Moneo’s masterpieces. Its current restoration not only preserves an architectural icon, but also highlights the use of ceramic brick as a symbol of continuity and authenticity.
A restoration worthy of its history
The façade of the National Museum of Roman Art in Mérida: more than just bricks
Opened in 1986, this museum houses more than just Roman artefacts: its very structure is a work of art. After decades of exposure to the elements, the need to restore its pressed-brick façade led to a unique project that involved more than simply replacing damaged bricks: the original bricks had to be recreated exactly.
A unique brick for a unique museum
La Paloma Cerámicas, chosen for the restoration
Thanks to its adaptability and technical expertise in the production of special bricks, La Paloma Cerámicas developed a bespoke mould, carefully adjusting the composition of the clays to reproduce the shade and texture required by the project, following the instructions of Rafael Moneo himself, as the original model was no longer in production.
From the Prado Museum to Mérida: a long-standing partnership
This is not the first time that La Paloma Cerámicas has collaborated with Moneo. The firm previously developed bespoke bricks for the extension of the Prado Museum. This professional relationship has endured thanks to La Paloma’s ability to deliver with precision, innovation and respect for the original design.
Durability, aesthetics and adaptability: the keys to pressed brick
The bricks produced not only respect the original aesthetics of the Museum of Roman Art in Mérida, but are also designed to last. This type of pressed brick is particularly well-suited to public works, historic heritage sites and homes of high architectural value.
Ceramics that preserve the past and look to the future
This project demonstrates that ceramics remain a contemporary, versatile and sustainable material. Through advanced production techniques and a craft-based approach, La Paloma Cerámicas has helped the National Museum of Roman Art in Mérida to retain its original character without compromising on innovation.
