Anadalusia, Spain Travel: Ronda
A Picturesque Town in Southern Spain with a Wealth of History
© Rod Quin
A spectacular setting, a rich store of Moorish architecture and a historic bullring make Ronda a scenic destination for day trips from the Costa del Sol and Seville.
Only 60 km (37 m) inland from Marbella and 120 km (74 m) south of Seville, Ronda perches dramatically on the edges of the Tajo Gorge, a 180 m (590 ft) ravine of the Guadlaquivir River. Inhabited since pre-Roman times and occupied by the Moors in the 8th century, Ronda has a fascinating history, much of which is still on display.
Things to Do and See in Ronda
- Take in vertigo-inducing views of the Tajo gorge and sweeping panoramas of the surrounding countryside from the Puente Nuevo.
- Wander through the old town exploring Ronda’s Arab heritage.
- Learn about Ronda’s contribution to the history of bullfighting.
- Have a lunch at a restaurant overlooking the gorge.
The Puente Nuevo
The Puente Nuevo, or New Bridge, is a 98 m (321 ft) triple arched bridge, spanning the Tajo Gorge which separates the old and new towns. Built in the 18th century, the bridge took 42 years to construct. A museum in the foot of the central arch offers the opportunity to learn more about this amazing feat of engineering.
Ronda’s Arab Heritage
Ronda was, in 1485, one of the last towns to be reconquered from the Moors and much of its Moorish architecture is well preserved. Attractions include:
- the 13th century Amocabar city gate
- the Arab walls of the old city
- the mihrab arch and minaret from Ronda’s 13th century mosque
- the Moorish water gardens of the Mondragon Palace
- the well-preserved Arab baths on the banks of the river
- the water mine in the Casa Del Rey Morro (House of the Moorish King), a secret tunnelled staircase built in the 14th century to give access to water when the city was besieged, stretching 300 steps down to the river below
- the Giant’s House, named not after an inhabitant, but two large stone reliefs, built in Nazari architectural design, the same style that produced Granada’s beautiful Alhambra.
Ronda’s Bullring
Ronda is considered the home of bullfighting in Spain; the modern style of bullfighting, involving the use of unmounted matadors, was developed here in the eighteenth century. Ronda’s 18th century bull ring in the new town is one of the oldest and largest in Spain, and considered by many to be the most beautiful. It also contains a museum where visitors can learn about the history of bullfighting.
Restaurants in Ronda
Ronda has a wide range of restaurants catering for all budgets. Two often recommended because of the spectacular views of the gorge they offer are:
- Casa Santa Pola, Cuesta Santo Domingo 3, first left across the Puente Nuevo in the old town, tel 952 87 92 08
- Albacara , Calle Tenorio 8, first right across the Puente Nuevo in the old town, tel 952 87 38 55.
Accommodation in Ronda
For those seeking a longer stay, Ronda has a wide range of accommodation available.
Getting to Ronda by Car
- From the Costa Del Sol take the A7 or E15, and turn off on the A376, just east of San Pedro de Alcantara. The A376 becomes the A397 and leads directly to Rhonda. Driving time from San Pedro to Ronda is approximately 1 hr.
- From Seville, take, in order, the A376, A375, A384 and A374. Driving time from Seville is approximately 2 hrs.
Getting to Ronda by Bus or Train
Ronda is easily accessible by bus or train from Malaga, and by bus from other towns on the Costa del Sol. It can also be reached by public transport from Granada, Cordoba or Seville.
