Ronda

Ronda is situated in the Malaga province in the Andalucia region of Spain. It is one of the "White Towns" that are scattered around Andalucia.

Ronda is built on a rocky outcrop and is split in half by deep river gorge the El Tajo. This gorge is spanned by an 18th century arched bridge, the Puento Nuevo, and tall whitewashed houses perch along the edge. Amazing!

Enjoy the spectacular views from the gorge and you can even walk down by the river in the valley bottom. The city is split into tow by the gorge. Most of the sights lie on the south side amongst the whitewashed houses and cobbled alleys. 

This town was one of the last parts of the Moorish empire to fall and it has left a strong influence. The Palacio Mondragon is largely rebuilt but has original Moorish mosaics. The Santa Maria la Mayor is an attractive mix of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance styles. The minaret survives from the 13th century mosque which existed before the church.

Puente Nuevo bridge, Ronda

Visit Ronda

The Palacio de Mondragon is a beautiful Moorish palace with lovely gardens and courtyards. It also houses the Museum of Ronda.

The Casa del Rey Moro is an 18th century mansion, the gardens are open to the river and include 365 steps down to the river. These hanging gardens were designed by Jean Claude Nicolas Forestier. The Casa del Rey Moro is also the entrance to the Water Mine. The Water Mine was built by slaves and was used to haul up water for the city. It is possible to descend the mine down to the river and up again - be warned this is quite a climb.

The Palacio del Marques de Salvatierra is a little further along the same street. This 16th century mansion has biblical scenes and South American Indians carved on its facade.

Ronda is also home to one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. This is considered to be one of the most important and fans flock in in September for the Corrida Goyesca. The bullring is very beautiful and  was used for the video of Madonna's ' Take a Bow'. As well as the bullring you can visit the stables and the bullfighting museum.

The Arab Baths were built in the 11th century and still used in the 17th century. They are one of the best preserved in Europe. The baths are located next to the Puente Arabe (the Arab bridge) - one of the entrances to the city. This is because it was necessary to be purified to enter the city.

Walk down the cliff face on a path which starts to the east of the old city. Walking down here gives you some excellent views of the 'White Town' and the surrounding countryside.

See also Ronda for tourists