Just a short drive from Vejer is the fishing hamlet of Bolonia, better known to locals by its Roman name of ‘Baelo Claudia’. An unmissable day out on any trip to the area at any time of year. Frollick in the waves in the summer or climb the seemingly endless dunes. But most of all visit the shorefront Roman ruins and their wonderful museum…
Baelo Claudia by Anthony Howell (The Spectator 20.08.12)
Ancient grey of ruination: the last vestiges
Of civilization – merely a litter of masonry –
And between these remains and the sea
A cavalcade in beachwear parades.
Kites whirl like banners overhead.
It’s an assault on time that’s led
By señoritas dancing in the foam
And corrugated boys made of bronze.
Their elders are bivouacked against
A harsh noon. Properly beached, ice-boxed
And entertained by attendants, each of these
Is as steeped in respect as those weathered capitols
Which appear to look on. The riot spills
Its toys across the sand – things already under attack
From the surge of brand new breakers.
