The ancient city of Ronda in Spain. History and sights of the city of Ronda, Spain

Want to see the real Andalusia? You need to deviate from the traditional tourist routes and rent a car and drive deep into Andalusia. And your path lies through Ronda - the birthplace of bullfighting, an amazing city hiding over an abyss.

The mountain range that screens the Costa del Sol to the north from the rest of Spain not only protects it from cold winds and snow in winter. At the same time, it separates the coast from the mainland of Andalusia. The residents of Malaga and the province themselves call this area continental Spain. Having driven 40 km from the coast into the mountains, you find yourself in a completely different world, where there are not many tourists, and in winter it even snows sometimes.

Andalusia is one of the oldest cultural centers in Europe. This land was the cradle of many celebrities and geniuses: the Roman emperors Trajan and Hadrian, the two Senecas, the philosopher and orator, the poet Lucan - the “Spanish Aristotle”, the philosopher Maimonil, the famous Spanish artists Murillo, Velazquez and P. Picasso, the poets L. Gongora and F. Garcia Lorca, musician M. de Falla. Famous sailors and travelers set out from Andalusian ports to discover new countries, territories and seas.

The rhythm of life here is measured and unhurried, and how could it be otherwise: after all, almost each of these towns is old enough to be Torremolinos’ great-grandfather.

Ronda, Toloque, Antequera, Casares... They contain the ruins of Arab and, in some places, even Roman fortifications. But the main thing about them is not the architecture, of which there are plenty of ceremonial examples in large cities. What attracts people here is the naturalness of life, the rhythm of which seems to have not changed for centuries. Grapes and pomegranates straight from the tree, a noisy market in the morning, storks on the roof of the house evoke thoughts of the eternal and unshakable and provide the best rest. Just don’t overuse it, otherwise, accustomed to the crazy city life, you will soon get bored and want to breathe in the usual hustle and bustle.

Pay attention to the site!

Armed with a map and rented a car, you can safely hit the road. However, when choosing a route, be careful: some of the mountains belong to the territory of national parks, which are closed to travel for most of the year. Be careful on narrow mountain roads. The number of routes around inner Andalusia is endless, but if you have little time, give preference to the one that passes through Ronda - a small but very ancient and interesting city. If you're coming from the coast, from the N340 just past San Pedro de Alcántara you'll need to head into the mountains on the C339 road to Ronda and Seville.

The route passes through the Seronia de Ronda mountains and you can admire beautiful views of the sea all the way to Gibraltar, which opens up with each new turn of the serpentine. Ronda is located 54 km from the coast on a mountain top above the Guadaievin River. This is one of the most ancient cities in Spain. But the city attracts tourists not only for its venerable age, but also for its unique landscape. The Guadaievin River gorge stretches for almost half a kilometer, its maximum depth is 100 meters and its width is 50 meters. It divides the city into two parts - the ancient Moorish La Ciudad and the “new city” El Mercadillo, which appeared after the Christian reconquest in 1485.

Its founders are considered to be the Celts, who founded the settlement in the 6th century. BC e. and they named him Arunda. The Greeks who later captured the village renamed it Runda. During the Second Punic War at the end of the 3rd century. BC e. Laurus Castle was built in the village, which contributed to the growth of the settlement, and during the time of Julius Caesar it received the status of a city. In 711, the city opened its gates without a fight to the Arabs who invaded the Iberian Peninsula, who named it Izn-Rand Onda (city with a castle).

Ronda was mentioned in history back in the times of Strabo and Pliny. The Roman armies of Pompey and Caesar fought nearby, and in the Middle Ages it became a center for Andalusian bandits - bandoleros.

In 1485, King Ferdinand I the Catholic had great difficulty liberating the city from the conquerors, which is located on a hill and was of great strategic importance in those days.

The names of Théophile Gautier, Alexandre Dumas fils, and Gustav Doré are associated with the city. Rainer Maria Rilke wrote the Spanish Trilogy here. Ernest Hemingway and David Bomberg visited here.

They all stayed at the Reina Victoria (Queen Victoria) hotel, built in 1906. It was built by the British as a sophisticated holiday destination on the Alcejiras-Bobadilla railway.

There is a statue of Abbas ibn Firnas on the road to Baghdad International Airport, and another airport in the north of the Iraqi capital bears this name. A stamp with his image was issued in Libya. One of the craters of the Moon is named after him, and in Muslim countries Ibn Firnas is considered the first person in the world to create an aircraft, in which he flew 1,000 years earlier than the Wright brothers. The flight lasted only ten seconds, and the 65-year-old “pilot” broke both legs upon landing, but it was still a flight. Its witnesses were the residents of Cordoba gathered for such a significant occasion, who had previously seen Ibn Firnas perform the first parachute jump in history, if you can call that a huge piece of fabric with which he jumped from one of the city’s towers. The birthplace of the humanist, scientist, chemist and harbinger of aeronautics Abbas ibn Firnas (810-887) is Ronda, one of the oldest cities in Andalusia.

More than seven centuries of Arab rule left a noticeable mark on the appearance of Ronda, despite the fact that many architectural structures of that period underwent transformations immediately after its liberation from the Muslims. Ronda is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. A deep and steep gorge, known as the Tajo de Ronda, divides the city into two parts: the old, or “La Ciudad,” and the new. The Guadalevín, a tributary of the larger river Guadiaro River, flows along the bottom of the gorge. It took Guadalevin millions of years to carve his way through the rock on which the city settled. The historical center of Ronda is, of course, located in the old part of the city. At one time, the Arabs surrounded it with a fortress wall, fragments of which have survived to this day. The fortress gates, bearing the names “Almocabar” and “Carlos V”, have also been preserved in excellent condition.

The best place to start your walk in the “new city” is Plaza Esparto, where you can pick up a map of Ronda for free from the tourist office. It's easy to get lost in Ronda's small, winding streets, so be careful. In addition, you will definitely need to remember your sporting achievements, since you will encounter steep slopes everywhere.

To the south of the square is Ronda's famous bridge - Puente Nuevo (New Bridge). It was built in the narrowest, but at the same time deepest part of the gorge. The bridge looks so impressive that when you look at it from the outside, you will probably compare it to a fortress. This architectural structure was built from 1755 to 1793. Architect Jose Martin de Aldehuela, who supervised the construction of the bridge, fell to his death while checking the quality of the work performed. No one knows the total number of casualties on the bridge, but it is likely that the largest number of people died here during the Civil War. For some time there was a prison at the bottom of the bridge.

On the opposite side of the bridge begins the old Moorish city. You can wander the winding streets lined with white stone houses with balconies lined with bird cages, adding to the beauty of these Renaissance mansions.

Turn left at Santo Domingo and walk until you reach Coso. del Rey Moro (Palace of the Moorish King). Despite the sonorous name, the palace was built only in 1709 on the site of an old Moorish house, when there was no trace of the Moors here. The palace garden offers a wonderful view of the gorge; a staircase of 365 steps, carved into the rock, leads from here to the river. There is a legend that during sieges the Arabs placed a chain of prisoners on it, who passed water in jugs up. And supposedly the Arab ruler drank this water from cups made from the skulls of his Christian enemies.

Below the Salvatierra Palace, a road leads to the gorge, from which two ancient bridges extend. Puente Viejo (Old Bridge) was built in 1616 on the foundation of a dilapidated bridge that was built by the Romans. Puente Ardbe (Arab Bridge) was created by the Moors during the Caliphate - they would hardly recognize it now - it was completely rebuilt. Near the bridge there are remains of Arab baths. Like the famous baths in the Alhambra, their ceiling is decorated with star-shaped exhaust holes.

Walk up the hill to the Plaza de la Cludad (City Square). The 18th-century building overlooking the square houses the city hall. Nearby is the city's cathedral, the Church of Santa Maria la Mayor (St. Mary). Like many Christian churches in Andalusia, it was built on the site of the city's main Moorish mosque. The naves of the church are made in the late Gothic style, and the main altar is covered with gold leaf in the Baroque style. The minaret is hidden under the walls of the bell tower, made in the Renaissance style. From the Arab religious buildings in Ronda, the minaret was restored, which in its current life received the name, surprisingly, of the Christian Saint Sebastian - San Sebastian at the very end of Marques de Saluatferra street. Below the Cathedral, designed in such an ascetic manner that it looks more like a military fortress, are the ruins of the old Arab fortress Alcazaba. blown up by the French in 1809. Nearby is the Moorish gate Puerto de Atrnocobar, through which King Ferdinand triumphantly led his troops into the city in 1485.

From the west wing of St. Mary's Church, Ronda de Cameras leads to a stone palace with medieval twin turrets known as Casa de Moridragon. Captured in 1485 after the victory of Ferdinand and Isabella over the Moors, it was most likely the residence of the Moorish kings of Ronda. The courtyard of the house is made in the Mudejar style (Arab style of the Reconquista period) with carved ceilings and openwork stucco. Nowadays there is a historical museum here.

About the nearby Plaza Campillo, the road leads down into the valley past the remaining ruins of the fortress wall. The square, adjacent to the hillside on one side, offers an amazing view of the gorge and hillsides. From here, Calle Tenorio takes you back to Puente Nueuo u in El Mercadfllo, which is the commercial center of the city with cozy hotels, restaurants, banks, bars and shops. The busiest business activity takes place in the Plaza del Socorro and along the Can-era de Espinel, the city's main shopping street.

Ronda's symbol is undoubtedly the matador's cap and banderillas. After all, it is in Ronda that one of the oldest (construction was completed in 1784) and most beautiful Plaza de Toros - bullrings in all of Spain is located. Pedro Romero (1754-1839), the founder of modern bullfighting and the city's most famous native, is said to have killed 5,600 bulls during his career. It was he who was the first to get off his horse during the battle and begin to fight the bull on foot. The Museo Tawino (Museum of Bullfighting and Bullfighting), located nearby, displays posters of the first bullfights, which took place in 1785. Every year in September, the arena becomes the scene of corridas goyescas, named after the artist Goya, famous among other things for his magnificent drawings of bullfights. All participants in the performance and celebrities in the stands dress for this occasion in the costumes of the times of the great artist. Now the arena belongs to the formerly famous bullfighter Antonio Ordonez, on whose ranch Ernest Hemingway loved to spend time.

The shady park Alameda del Tajo (Alley of Poplars) is located near the bullring. It was opened in 1806. The main alley ends with a lush balustrade, which offers a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.

The best way to appreciate the color of everyday life in Ronda is to go out on a weekday morning to Calle de la Bola, starting at Plaza de Toros. Horses and donkeys harnessed to carts line the sidewalks alongside souvenir shops and restaurants, and peasants from all the surrounding villages sell livestock, poultry and fruit. From Ronda you can take interesting trips to the surrounding towns.

The Tahoe Balcony, located right at the edge of the precipice in the new part of town, offers breathtaking views of the valleys far below. The symbol of Ronda is a stone medieval bridge almost 100 meters high, connecting the “old” city with its “new” part. In addition to its picturesque streets, in Ronda you need to see the Mondragon Palace, the House of the Moorish King, the Arabian baths and the Bullring Museum, which reflects the exciting events of bullfighting.

In the old town is Ronda's main church, Santa Maria la Mayor, built in 1485 on the site of a mosque, of which only one tower remains. Not far from it is the Church of the Holy Spirit, erected by the Catholic kings Fernando and Isabella in honor of the reconquest of Ronda from the Moors. Nearby are the Alminar Minaret, which belongs to the Church of St. Sebastian, the City Hall, the Palace of the Marquis de Salvatierra with a beautiful facade, the House of the Giant, the House of the Moorish King with its wonderful garden, from where you can go down a staircase carved into the rock to the bottom of the gorge, and many other palace houses , cozy little squares, cobbled streets, museums and antique shops.

The Mondragon Palace, built in 1314 as the residence of the great Moorish king Abd el-Malik, deserves special attention. Among its many courtyards, the Mudéjar-style “patio” stands out, lavishly decorated with brick, marble, tiles and wood. From here you can enter the stunning garden through the characteristic horseshoe-shaped arch. At the Arch of Felipe V there is a chic observation deck “The Moor’s Chair”, covered in legends about love and jealousy.

In the new part of the city, the pedestrian street Carrera Espinel, or de la Bola, attracts the attention of tourists. In the old days, when snow fell quite often in Andalusia, children had fun making snowballs, which, thanks to the slight slope of the street and its straightness, rolled down, reaching unimaginable sizes. Now this kilometer-long street is the center of the city’s commercial life: most of the different kinds of shops are located on it.

Bullfighting is the hallmark of Spain, born in the city of Ronda, which is located in the mountains of Andalusia, 40 kilometers from the Costa del Sol, and is the birthplace of bullfighting. Ronda is proud of its bullring, the oldest and one of the most beautiful in Spain. And this is no coincidence: the city is considered the cradle of modern bullfighting. Here in 1700, the founder of the famous bullfighting dynasty, Francisco Romero, was born, who became the pioneer of foot fighting with a bull, since until that time bullfighters fought on horseback. His grandson Pedro Romero is the greatest figure in Spanish bullfighting: during his 25-year career, he killed more than 5,600 bulls without receiving a single scratch. Ronda is also the birthplace of another legendary bullfighter, Cayetano Ordóñez Aguilar Niño de la Palma (1904-1961). Ernst Hemingway dedicated his works “Fiesta” and “Death in the Afternoon” to Cayetano and his son, and Pedro Romero and his brother were immortalized in paintings by Francisco Goya. The bullfighting museum is located in the arena.

The birthplace of bullfighting is located in the most picturesque place in Spain, because the city of Ronda is spectacularly located on two beautiful rocky plateaus. They are separated by the Tagus Gorge, more than 100 meters deep with steep walls. On the southern plateau is the ancient city of Ciudad, founded by the Arabs, where fortress walls and architectural monuments from the period of Moorish rule (8th-15th centuries) have been preserved. On the northern plateau, a new city, El Mircadillo, arose in the 16th century. In the second half of the 18th century, the Spaniards built a unique 98-meter-high bridge across the chasm, connecting the old and new areas of Ronda.

The Ronda bullring has the status of a historical and cultural monument. It was built in 1785 and has a diameter of 66 m, making it the largest in area in the world. The arena is surrounded by two amphitheater rings with 68 arches and 136 columns. The local bullfighting museum displays luxurious bullfighter attire with beaded inlays, sequins and braid.

In 1954, a “Goya bullfight” was held in Ronda in honor of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Pedro Romero. Since then it has become traditional and is one of the most important events in the life of the city. It is held in early September and coincides with the main city festivals. "Goya's Bullfight" restores in every detail the bullfights that took place two and a half centuries ago.


History buffs know that in the past the mountains of Ronda were the refuge of the famous Spanish “bandoleros” - robbers. However, few people know that a museum has been opened in Ronda, which recreates the life and customs of the robber gangs that operated in this area in the 18th - 19th centuries, and even at the beginning of our century. In the steep gorges of Ronda were hiding such authorities of the past as Diego Corrientes, José Ulloya, nicknamed "Donkey's Belly", José Maria Hinojosa, nicknamed "Early Bird" or Francisco Rios "Flint". The museum exhibits are fascinating. A hand-drawn deck of cards with brown stains (either wine or blood), Navaja knives, saddles, pistols. On the yellowed newspaper pages - pale photographs - if you can make out anything, it’s the crazy, burning eyes of the bandoleros. Closer to night, their wax figures can come to life in the imagination of an impressionable visitor if he accepts a glass of sweet malaga from the hands of the museum caretaker.

Ronda and its surroundings were the birthplace of such legendary and well-known bandits as José Maria el Tempranillo, Flores Arrocha and Pasos Largos. The bandit with such a strange nickname (“Pasos Largos” - “Long Steps”) was born in the same year as Lenin (1870) and was the last of the famous Andalusian “bandoleros”. After spending 16 years in prison, in 1932 he was amnestied by the Republican government “for health reasons” and for exemplary behavior in captivity. Upon his release, the 62-year-old bandit, in “poor” health, again went into the forests to do what he loved, and was killed in a shootout with the Civil Guard two years later.

10 km from the city is Ronda la Vieja with preserved elements of a Roman theater. The forest road in the direction of San Pedro de Alcantara will lead the traveler to El Pinsapar, a forest of Andalusian spruce (“pinsapo”). Ronda is the final destination of the scenic route through the "white villages" of Andalusia, which starts in Arcos de la Frontera and passes through the Sierra de Grazalema National Reserve. Its length is 76 km, travel time including sightseeing is about three hours.

Let's go on a virtual tour. Click on the pictures and get to Spain.

sources

http://visavis-tour.narod.ru/

http://www.ice-nut.ru/

http://miroland.com

And here is another city over the abyss and also in Spain, remember: . Well, since we have already started talking about Spain, remember and The original article is on the website InfoGlaz.rf Link to the article from which this copy was made -

An integral part of the district called Malaga is the city of Ronda. Its population is approximately 37,000 inhabitants. The city attracts the attention of guests with its very colorful location. Ronda in Spain is located on a gorge, with residential buildings on both sides of this split.

The depth of the gorge is more than 100 meters and the width is 50 meters. The unusual panoramic views that open to tourists from the highest points of the city are simply amazing and have no analogues in the whole world. The hallmark of the city is the bridge over the gorge, which locals gave the name Tahoe.

History and areas of Ronda in Spain

The first settlement that appeared on the edges of the gorge had a completely different name - Arunda. The peculiarity of the city was that it was located in a dangerous zone and, as it were, protected the population from enemies.

With the arrival of Muslims and Visigoths in the city, the city began to develop in all sectors. According to rock drawings found by archaeologists, the appearance of the settlement dates back to the 6th century BC. The city was conquered several times, first by the Greeks, then by the Phoenicians, and then by the Romans and Byzantines.

When going for a walk, you should definitely take a map with you; it is very easy for tourists and guests of the city to get lost.

The winding streets of Ronda in Spain can confuse anyone.

In addition, you will have to remember all your sporting achievements, because in some places you will have to jump on steep slopes. The town is quite small and all its sights can be seen in one day.

Walking along the streets of the city is very interesting; the souvenir shops here are so original that their appearance is more reminiscent of small museums than shopping premises.

Tourists who are here for the first time will walk along the streets and look at everything, because outwardly the village looks different from the cover of most guidebooks. The city of Ronda in Spain is divided into three areas:

San Francisco;

Each of the above areas of the city of Ronda in Spain has its own characteristics and attractions. San Francisco the oldest part of the city, it contains ancient buildings and large buildings. Here you can see the ancient Almocabar gate, as well as the remains of an Arab fortress.

The gate consists of three doors at the corners of which there are observation towers.

Area La Ciudad as if created for tourists, this is where you will find many museums, monasteries, galleries and streets with interesting landscapes.

El Mircadillo- this is a new city, there are modern shops, buildings, office centers and many cozy cafes where you can enjoy the silence and leisurely pace of life in the city of Ronda in Spain. All the bustle of business and many shops where you can buy a lot of souvenirs are located on Plaza del Socorro and along Can-era de Espinel street.

Most tourists purchase traditional symbols of the birthplace of bullfighting as a souvenir: a matador’s cap and banderillas.

Sights of the city “floating above the earth”

Among the most visited places in the city, of course, the leader is Puerta de Novo. This is a new bridge that appeared in 1793. According to history, the chief architect, while checking the work performed, fell to his death. In the middle of the bridge there is a separate part with premises - this was once a prison.

Today it houses the bridge museum. A tour of the museum costs two euros, but the exhibits and the many new things you learn are worth it. In addition, you can take excellent photos of the gorge from the walls of the museum; it can be seen especially well from here.

Few people know, but the famous bullfight appeared in this city. The first bull tamer was an ordinary villager who was engaged in carpentry - Francisco Romero. During his practice, a bullfighter from a small town became a record holder and killed 600 bulls, without even being wounded.

The first arena where bullfighting took place is also located in Ronda in Spain. It is one of the widest arenas in the entire country.

Real Maestransa Built in 1785, today the arena is no longer operational, but it houses a bullfighting museum. Entrance to the museum costs 6 euros. For this money they will show you not only the arena itself, but also give you a tour of the outbuildings.

Not far from the arena there is Poplar Alley and a tennis park built in 1806. The main alley offers a beautiful view of the gorge and the wild Spanish nature that surrounds the city; it is here that you can take great photos as a souvenir of your visit to this piece of paradise.

It will be very interesting for city guests to visit Palace of the Moorish King, although, despite its name, it has nothing in common with the Moors.

From the windows of the building, city guests and tourists will have a wonderful view of the mountain gorge, so beautiful and dangerous.

There are 365 degrees in the rock that lead from the palace to the river. There is a legend according to which, during the siege, all the prisoners were placed on the steps, who transferred water from the river up in large containers, and the Arab ruler drank it from the skulls of dead opponents.

Very simple, but at the same time no less famous among tourists is the street Espinel. It consists of nine pedestrian sections and is one kilometer long. Locals call it “ball street.” The street received such an unusual name because of an old tradition. It rarely snows in Ronda, but when it does, children make a huge snow ball here.

The ancient churches made in the Gothic style, which are located in the center of the city of Ronda in Spain, are also particularly beautiful.

For example, the main altar of a church Santa Maria la Mayor covered with gold.

The architecture of the city is very diverse, ancient houses in the Renaissance style with iron balconies combine perfectly with modern buildings. On a street called Marques de Saluatferra, you can visit Church of St. Sebastian-San Sebastian

And Cathedral. The latter, in appearance, looks more like a military fortress than a temple. The city has many ruins of ancient fortresses and buildings, but of most, practically nothing remains. The city museums can tell you more about the former buildings.

The most interesting of the museums in Ronda is the Museum of Witches and Robbers, which has very unusual exhibits. Museum of Robbers and Witches will tell guests about famous dark personalities of past centuries and the noticeable mark that they left behind in history.

People have always been interested in the true intentions of these people, perhaps these two museums will help you uncover the secrets of the Middle Ages.

Traditional cuisine and hotels in Ronda

If you visit this colorful city in Spain, you simply must try the local cuisine. It consists mainly of simple dishes, but their taste is simply unforgettable. On the menu of most cafes, you will see light tomato soups, pea and lentil stews, various mushroom and asparagus bodas.

Particularly popular are baby goat baked over fire and sausages in wine. You will be very surprised, because the favorite dessert of the local population is eggnog. In monasteries, you can buy very tasty sweets.

Whipped egg whites are used in winemaking, and the yolks are given to monasteries. The nuns make delicious puddings and cookies from them. You can buy monastery sweets in a special window of the sanctuary.

The city of Ronda in Spain has its own brand of wine, it bears the label Serrania de Ronda. The production of this drink began here a long time ago, but has retained its ancient manufacturing traditions to this day.

You can try rose, white, and even dry red wine here. There is even a museum dedicated to winemaking, where tourists will be invited to familiarize themselves with the technology of winemaking and the history of its origins in the region. There are more than 15 wineries in the city. It would be very wise to grab a bottle of a delicious drink from Ronda as a souvenir.

Prices in catering establishments are quite reasonable; you can have a hearty lunch and drink wine for just 20 euros. As for a place to stay, it’s quite easy to find a hotel here; there are plenty of them. There are budget hotels with a price per night of 30 euros, and expensive hotels for which you will have to pay more than 100 euros. There are also local residents who invite tourists to stay with them. The prices are the lowest there, but if you don't know Spanish, it's best not to stay with strangers.

Even more fun

For the most daring and hardy tourists, there is a special offer for a descent down the gorge. In general, it does not pose any particular danger, but you should stock up on water and patience. Traveling outside the city, you will be simply amazed by the beauty of the wild Spanish nature and its extraordinary vegetation.

In order to feel the true atmosphere of the city, you need to go out on the streets in the morning. Modern buildings are in perfect harmony with donkeys and horses harnessed to old carts. Markets along the streets, where there is a lot of noise and people, seem to commemorate the Moors in ancient times, who once also walked along the streets and did their usual things.

Once you visit the city that hovers over the abyss, you will receive indescribable impressions that will stay with you for a long time. As one poet said, “the further you move away from this city, the more strongly you will remember it.” Don’t force yourself to miss the city of Ronda, come back here again, and you will certainly discover something new for yourself all the time.

surrounding suburb

Ronda embodies a living open-air museum that contains centuries-old history and is happy to convey it to its guests.

And the service website will easily help you get to Spain. Only here you can buy air tickets at a favorable price and book a good room in a local hotel.

Ronda is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is located in the south of the country 100 km northeast of Malaga in Andalusia. The road to Ronda runs along the very edge of the cliff, and the city itself is built in the mountains on two massive rock plateaus, separated by the El Tajo gorge, 100 meters deep. The Guadalevin River flows at the bottom of the gorge. The Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) bridge connects the two parts of the city, and the view of the valley from it is one of the most beautiful in the country and even in all of Europe.

Ronda is a very calm and quiet city; people come here for the beautiful mountain nature and ancient architectural monuments, but not for noisy entertainment.

Ronda is considered the birthplace of Spanish bullfighting. It was in this city that the first fighting arena, Plaza de Toros, was built in 1775.

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How to get there

From Moscow to Ronda you can only get a transfer.

• First, you need to get to Malaga by charter flight (the flight takes 5.5 hours on average), and then by regular bus (1 hour 50 minutes, ticket cost about 10-15 EUR). Prices on the page are as of November 2019.
• Another option is to fly to Seville, from there to Ronda by bus, the price is approximately 12-20 EUR.

You can also get to Ronda by train, but it is less convenient than by bus - trains rarely run and you will often have to make transfers to get there.

• From Madrid, trains to Ronda run twice a day (both in the morning), the journey takes about 4 hours, tickets cost from 40 EUR.
• You can travel from Malaga by train in 2-3 hours, the fare is 10-14 EUR, two trains depart per day - at 10:05 and 16:48.
• The train from Seville leaves once a day at 12:50, travel time is about 3 hours, the fare is 42 EUR.

Search for flights to Malaga (closest airport to Ronda)

Ronda Hotels

Ronda is a popular city among tourists, and although many of them come here for one day, the hotels here are quite varied and the prices for accommodation are reasonable. The minimum room rate is only 25 EUR, although there are also expensive hotels with rooms starting from 100 EUR.

In the north of the city there are railway and bus stations, around them and closer to the city center there are modern and not particularly interesting residential areas, to the south there is a new part of the historical center (El Mercadillo), and even further south across the New Bridge is the oldest part of the historical center - La Ciudad .

The modern part of the city and the neighborhoods around the stations are convenient for those passing through the city: close to the stations and no problems with parking, unlike the historical center. Accommodation prices are 15-20% lower than in tourist areas, and the hotels themselves, although not as colorful, are comfortable and functional.

The historical center has many tapas bars, restaurants, shops and other things tourists need. There are also many hotels here, and they are usually located in old buildings. In most of them, the rooms are small and there is no heating, so it can be chilly here in autumn and winter - the air conditioner may not be able to heat a room with thick stone walls. Air conditioning is not available everywhere, but this is a very important condition, since the area is quite noisy and it will be difficult to sleep with open windows. The best hotel in this quarter is Parador de Ronda 4*, located in the building of the former city hall. Each room has a balcony overlooking the gorge and the Puente Nuevo bridge, and the local restaurant serves excellent Andalusian cuisine, which not only hotel guests come to try. The cost of accommodation is from 110 EUR per day for a double room. For thrifty tourists, there are also more budget options - a good three ruble can be rented for 35-40 EUR per day.

In the Old Town (La ciudad), the most popular hotels are located along the gorge overlooking the valley. Almost all the buildings here are historical monuments, and the hotels in them are very colorful - with stonework and wooden beams, wrought iron grilles and antique furniture. Heating and air conditioning are not available everywhere, but if without air conditioning it is quite tolerable here (in houses with thick stone walls it is cool even in summer), then heating in winter is a necessary thing. Some hotels occupy entire palaces, for example Hotel Montelirio 4*, located in a 17th century palace (accommodation costs from 100 EUR per day for a double room), as well as many small family hotels with cozy patios for 40-60 EUR per day.

The main event of the year in Ronda is the Corridas goyescas ("Goya-style bullfight"), which takes place annually in the first week of September. Hundreds of people come here, hotels are booked six months in advance, and prices soar 2-3 times. If you are not a fan of bullfighting, it is better to plan your trip to this city at another time.

Shopping in Ronda

There are no large shopping centers or outlets in Ronda. When it comes to shopping, this city is quite old-fashioned - there are many small family-run shops and stores selling everything from clothes and souvenirs to vegetables and sausages.

Calle Espinel (formerly known as Calle de la Bola) is a one kilometer long pedestrian street where all the shops in Ronda are concentrated. There you can buy handmade shoes and bags made of genuine leather (including designer ones), jewelry, famous Andalusian ceramics, toys and souvenirs. This same street is the center of celebrations in the evenings and on weekends, and most of the bars and restaurants are located here.

Cuisine and restaurants

Rhonda's cuisine is simple and “peasant”; local establishments serve tomato soup with garlic, lentil stew, mushroom and asparagus dishes and, of course, meat. The population of Ronda is a hunter, so almost every second restaurant here cooks game. The most popular local dishes are fried kid, sausages in wine, stewed beef with potatoes, stewed rabbit, lamb and fried partridge (definitely from the gorge - it will be written on the menu), pork fillet stuffed with nuts, spicy lamb and much more.

For dessert they serve yemas del tajo (eggnog) and various monastery sweets. Local wine Serrania de Ronda is produced under the Sierras de Malaga brand and is considered quite good.

Tapas bars are concentrated on the pedestrian street Calle Espinel; you can have a meal there for 10-13 EUR per person, including wine or beer. Restaurants are located both in the depths of the historical center (its old and new parts) and on the very edge of the gorge. The price tag in the second case will be higher - this is an additional payment for the view. On average, dinner in a Ronda restaurant with wine will cost 15-30 EUR per person.

City of Ronda

Guides in Ronda

Entertainment and attractions in Ronda

People rarely come to Ronda for a long time; there is nothing to do there for more than a couple of days. This small town can be explored on foot in literally a day, but the day is definitely worth it.

5 things to do in Ronda:

1. Descend through the galleries inside the Puente Nuevo bridge to the bottom of the gorge.
2. Go to the Witch Museum.
3. Visit a bullfight in the largest arena in Spain.
4. Take a photo with a bronze bull.
5. Find out the meaning of the word "tauromakia".

A little history

Ronda is one of the oldest cities in Europe. The city was founded in the 4th century BC by the Celts. Initially, it was a small village, often passed from one conqueror to another. Later, a castle was built in the village, which led to an increase in population, and during the time of Julius Caesar it was given the status of a city. The final name was formed after the capture of the city by the Arabs, who called it Izna-Rand-Onda (“City with a Castle”), hence the current name.

The Arabs who captured the city called it Izna-Rand-Onda, which means “city with a castle.”

Ronda now consists of two parts: the Old Town and the New Town, founded in the 13th and 18th centuries respectively. Also in the 18th century, the Puente Nova bridge was built, connecting both parts of the city.

Architecture

First of all, it is worth visiting the Old Town (La Ciudad), which has preserved many historical architectural monuments: the Arab (Moorish) fortress of Alcabar, Arab baths built in the 13-14th centuries, the cathedral church of Santa Maria de la Encarnacien from the 15th century. , which mixed Romanesque, Arabic and Gothic styles, but the main city attraction is, of course, the New Bridge (Puente Nova). This is the highest bridge in the city, its height above the bottom is 120 m, and inside there are galleries of descent into the gorge itself. In addition, the Roman Bridge (Puente San Miguel), built by the Arabs in the 13th century on the site of a bridge built in Roman times, and the Old Bridge are partially preserved in Ronda.

Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting. It was here that the first and still the largest bullring in Spain, the Plaza de Toros, was built in 1784. There is a monument to a bull near the Plaza de Toros, and the arena itself is used for its intended purpose to this day. When it is not hosting performances, it works as a museum of tauromakia (the art of bullfighting), telling tourists about the development of this unusual action.

It's nice and easy to walk around the old quarter of the city - there are many ancient buildings, including the House of the King of the Moors (Palacio del Rey Moro) and the Muslim Gate fortress.

The outstanding Spanish bullfighter Pedro Romero was born and raised in Ronda. It was he who established the basic rules in modern bullfighting. Having killed more than 6,000 bulls during his career as a bullfighter, he was never “horned.”

The foothills of Ronda outside the city have very beautiful nature. These views were repeatedly sung in their works by writers Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles, who visited Ronda. In addition to the beautiful landscapes, they were fascinated by the history of the city and the courage of its inhabitants, which was also reflected in their works.

Museums

The most unusual and popular museum among tourists in Ronda is the Witch Museum (Museo Lara). The exhibition is dedicated to witchcraft and the history of the Inquisition in Spain; the museum is located in a gloomy basement for greater fear.

The most interesting thing at the Wine Museum (Museo del vino de Ronda) is the tastings. A tour of the cellar costs 5 EUR per person (sample included). An excursion to the factory, where they will tell you about the technologies for making local wine and how to store it, as well as let you try more interesting and expensive varieties, will cost 12-20 EUR.

The magnificent and unique city of Andalusia, Rondo, attracts travelers with its mesmerizing landscapes. The city seems to be floating in the clouds, stretching high above the mountain gorges. Excellent landscapes for photographs are everywhere, the streets are surrounded by greenery and clean mountain air.

The historical part of the city is made mainly in the Renaissance style. But there are also medieval buildings from the Arab period. This place is famous for its rich history and unusual sights. What is worth seeing in Rondo will be discussed below.

The new bridge is a truly majestic structure, erected to a height of 120 meters above the abyss. All the more striking is the fact that the bridge was built at the end of the 18th century - 1796. Connecting two parts of the city, the bridge has become a favorite subject for photographers. The bridge looks especially grandiose from the gorge; this angle most often adorns postcards and guidebooks.

The city is essentially located above the El Tajo Gorge. Therefore, the issue of building bridges in Rondo was taken more than seriously. The Old Bridge was built in 1616. It also looks majestic. However, due to errors in construction, the old bridge collapsed. That’s why we had to build another one six years later.

You can admire the landscapes of Rondo not only from the bridges, but also in the Alamenda del Tajo park. The park, which is also a botanical garden, consists of five green alleys starting at the embankment. The promenade has been taking place here since 1806, when the park was opened. It was originally called Alameda San Carlos. Here you can admire the rarest plants. Some trees are more than two hundred years old. The garden ends with an observation deck overlooking the valley and surrounding settlements.

Location: Paseo Blas Infante - 1.

Not far from the New Bridge is the notorious monastery of Santo Domingo, where the Holy Inquisition held meetings.

Location: Calle Cuesta de Santo Domingo - 1.

The palace was built during Muslim rule, in 1314. Later, when the Christians seized power, the house was given to Captain Mondrajon. Little has been preserved from its original appearance; a major reconstruction took place in the 18th century. The courtyard typical of eastern buildings has been preserved.

There is a fountain and a well inside. The building is painted in white, traditional for Spanish houses. This two-story mansion now serves as a museum displaying fossils from the archaeological site. Lovers of antiquities should definitely visit this museum of the primitive era. You can see reconstructions of Stone Age dwellings, household items, and utensils.

Location: Plaza Mondragon.

The Church of Santa Maria la Mayor is Ronda's main religious building. The church was built on the foundation of a mosque; the former minaret is now a belfry. The construction of the building lasted more than two centuries, so two styles merged in the architecture of the church: Renaissance and Gothic.

Inside, the temple amazes with its decoration: high Gothic vaults, carved antique furniture, statues of saints, frescoes. Today the church building gravitates more towards the Baroque architectural style.

Location: Calle Sor Angela de la Cruz - 5.

The Arab baths, founded around 1300, still remind us of the city's Arab past. The state of preservation of this historical monument is good. Excursions are conducted and films about the construction and installation of baths are shown.

These structures are a legacy of the Roman baths: water was also delivered through aqueducts. You can see preserved halls, vaulted ceilings with cut-out star windows, the remains of a heating and water heating system.

The fact that the rich aristocracy of Spain lived in Rondo is also evidenced by several palaces, for example, the Salvatierra Palace. Built at the end of the 15th century, it still belongs to a noble family. However, travelers can also look into it. Renaissance architecture. There are interesting details on the facade of the building.

The columns support Indian statues. Next to the building there is a cross in honor of the conquest of Ronda by Catholics. The first stronghold of Christians was built on this site when the city fell.

Location: Calle Real - 2.

The museum has such a fancy name for the reason that Andalusia was famous for its noble robbers who robbed rich people passing on the roads, but did not harm ordinary people, and even helped the poor. There are no similar museums anywhere in the world. Here you can see portraits of real bandoliers, weapons, documents, and reconstructed scenes from the life of bandits.

The collection of firearms and bladed weapons is also significant: pistols, navajas, arquebuses. The walls are decorated with ancient paintings on this theme. The museum is relatively new, founded in 1995 at the request of the residents of Rondo. Bandoliers are revered as heroes. During the war against Napoleon's army, many robbers organized a partisan movement and took part in battles.

Location: Calle Arminan - 65.

Spain is famous for its traditions, some of which today seem relics, and some of which are cruel. And first of all, these are bullfights. In Rondo, the founding city of bullfighting, there is the oldest stadium for this kind of fights - Plaza de Toros, opened in 1785.

The Bullfighting Museum is also presented here to the attention of city guests. Its exhibition includes hundreds of photographs dedicated to battles, swords, toreador vestments, heads of the most furious bulls and other items related to bullfighting. There is also a firearms museum here. The arena itself is very reminiscent of the Colosseum: a sandy stadium frames a two-tier amphitheater with a gallery of columns.

This arena hosts the Goya Corrida Festival, named after the famous 19th-century Spanish artist, a passionate fan of bullfighting. The festival is held in costumes of Goya's contemporaries. It is noteworthy that one of the regular spectators at the Plaza de Toros was the outstanding writer Ernest Hemingway. There is a monument to a bull near the arena.

Location: Calle de Utebo - 1.

The Mina spring is a passage cut into the rock back in the Middle Ages to a spring. Those who want to see the source with their own eyes must overcome almost 300 steps and descend to a depth of 60 meters.

Urban legend says that this tunnel was made for the daughter of the King of the Moors, which she could use as a hiding place if the city was captured. In fact, during the siege, the inhabitants used this spring, transferring water along a chain in furs.

Spanish wine is one of the most popular varieties in the world. You can appreciate the taste of the drink in the wine museum, located in an ancient Arab building. In the museum you can get acquainted with the traditions of winemaking in the Roman Empire, Byzantium, Phenicia, and Arab countries. The entire exhibition occupies twelve halls and covers the entire history of winemaking.

It will be interesting to learn about the origin of many brands of the drink. There is even a room dedicated to wine glassware and wine stoppers. During the reconstruction of the building, a staircase to a deep cellar was discovered. Researchers found there a large warehouse of wine from the ancient Roman era and coins. Of course, these wines can no longer be tasted, but you can taste modern Spanish varieties.

Location: Calle del Palacio.

How to get to Ronda

Ronda is a typical “white” town of Andalusia, belonging to the small towns of the province. The street development consists of narrow streets and whitewashed low-rise buildings, which gives Ronda a somewhat oriental flavor. The city also has preserved historical monuments; it makes sense to walk through the architectural sites of the city. But, of course, the city acquired its main tourist attraction thanks to its distinctive feature - the steep cliffs on which the city is located. The thing is that Ronda is located in the mountains, and on the steep cliffs that surround the city, an arched bridge was erected, leading into a mountain abyss. These are the views that tourists come to Ronda for.

Ronda is located in the province of Andalusia, in southern Spain, so to get here you first need to fly into the nearest major city. It could be Malaga (closer) or Madrid (further). Further from large cities you can use public transport or to get directly to Ronda and its picturesque cliff.

How to get to Ronda from Madrid

The distance between Madrid and Ronda is an impressive 550 km. The cities are connected by highway No. A-4. You can get from the Spanish capital directly to Ronda by train. Direct trains run several times a day from Madrid's Puerta Atocha train station to Ronda. Travel time is a little less than 4 hours. Direct trains leave in the morning at 8.35 and at lunchtime at 15.05. The rest of the time there are transfer trains (transfer in Cordoba or Antequera), and the duration of the journey increases in proportion to the time spent on the transfer. You can buy a train ticket either at the Madrid railway station or in advance at the railway service .

How to get to Ronda from Malaga

Malaga is a large city with an international airport located on the Costa del Sol. The distance between Malaga and Ronda is only 100 km. The two cities are connected by highways A-357 and A-367. There is also a railway connection. Regional direct trains run between the cities; travel time is just under two hours. There are also options with transfers in Antequera, then the travel time will be about a little more than two hours. You can buy a train ticket either at the Malaga railway station or in advance at the railway service .

If you plan to move around a lot, then public transport may not always be useful, for example, to get to the National and Natural Parks near Ronda, you cannot do without a personal car. You can rent a car in any major city in Spain; car rental is especially popular in And . Here, offices are open not only in the cities themselves, but also at arrival airports. The competition between rental companies is quite high, which means that in the fight for clients, rental companies lower prices. It is not without reason that car rental in Madrid and Malaga is considered to be one of the cheapest in the country. You can get to Ronda by car from Madrid in approximately 6 hours, and from Malaga in 1.5 hours.

How to get to Ronda from Granada

Another popular tourist route runs from Granada to Ronda, since the two cities are located quite close to each other. The distance is approximately 180 km. You can also get from one city to another by train. Both direct and transfer trains run between cities. Direct regional trains start running from 7 am, travel time is about 2.5 hours.

Sometimes you can find transfer trains (change in Antequera), but they run much less frequently than direct ones. Travel time by train with a transfer is just over 3 hours. You can buy a train ticket either at the Granada railway station or in advance at the railway service . Tourists often combine travel to Ronda and Granada, since both cities have a huge number of attractions.

Ronda Hotels

In Ronda you can find hotels of different star categories. All of them comply with European standards. If you arrive in the city by car, then it makes sense to take care of parking issues, since the historical center of the city has a rather narrow layout. If you prefer to stay outside the city, then, as a rule, parking spaces from the hotel are already offered there.

Aire De Ronda, 4 stars

This boutique hotel is located in the historic center of the city, within walking distance of Ronda's main attractions, but on a quiet, peaceful street. The hotel has its own small internal garden and bar. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Free public parking is available nearby.

The rooms are individually decorated, inside you can find air conditioning, telephone, radio, iron, hairdryer, balcony. Breakfast may be included in the price, depending on the room type (check when booking). Luggage storage is available. The hotel received the best reviews for the work of the staff and the cleanliness of the rooms.

The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Check-in is from 14.00, check-out is until 12.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel costs for specific dates on the booking websiteBooking.com.

San Gabriel – su casa en ronda, 4 stars

The hotel is located in Ronda's historic district, close to major attractions. The hotel has a courtyard. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge. Public parking is available nearby (reservation is not required). Luggage storage is available. The hotel also has its own library. The hotel's rooms are decorated in typical Andalusian style.

The hotel has rooms of different categories, all of them are equipped with air conditioning, TV, and minibar. Breakfast is available for an additional fee. The hotel received the best reviews for its location, cleanliness of the rooms and staff.

The reception is open 24 hours a day. Standard check-in is from 12.00, check-out is also until 12.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel costs for specific dates on the booking website Booking.com.

La Fuente de la Higuera, 2 stars

The hotel is located outside the city, in the tranquil atmosphere of Andalusia's nature. The hotel has its own swimming pool, garden and lounge area. The hotel is small in size, family type and has a little more than 10 rooms. Free public parking is available nearby (no reservation required). Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire territory free of charge. Luggage storage is available.

The hotel has rooms of different categories: standard, junior suite, double suite, luxury. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, and a hairdryer. The hotel has a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel received the best reviews for the work of the staff, the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms.

Check-in is from 15.00, check-out is until 12.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel costs for specific dates on the booking websiteBooking.com.

Ronda Mountain Resort

The hotel is located 7 km from the city center and has all the necessary options for relaxation: an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a barbecue area, free parking, free Wi-Fi. Reservations are required for valet parking.

Hotel guests can choose a room to suit their taste: standard, superior, deluxe, separate apartments. The hotel rooms have air conditioning, TV and other amenities. Some rooms have a balcony with views of the surrounding nature. The holiday complex received the best reviews for the comfort provided, the work of the staff and the cleanliness of the rooms.

Check-in is from 13.00, check-out is until 11.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel costs for specific dates on the booking website Booking.com.

Sights of Ronda

Ronda is a completely unique city, unlike any other. Situated on the rocks, at an altitude of 700 meters and hanging over the El Tajo gorge, in which a mountain river flows, it makes an extraordinary impression with just its view from the side. And the colorful white houses, narrow streets, preserved cultural sites - all this makes the city a desirable place to visit among tourists who appreciate the national flavor of Spain.

The sights of Ronda can be divided into historical and natural. The first include numerous churches, fortifications, houses of famous people, and museums that have been preserved in the city. The second includes views of El Tajo cliffs and gorge, on which the city itself is located.

Historical sights of the city

The city has preserved a number of churches dating back to different eras in the history of Andalusia. For example, on the central Salvation Square There is also a church of the same name. Salvation Square is a rectangular area surrounded on all sides by white low buildings, ceremonial and festively decorated. Salvation Square is a mixture of white and gold, which look especially impressive in the light of the Andalusian sun. In the center of the composition there is the same elegant fountain, and from the square itself there are numerous narrow streets of the city. Church of Salvation- a relatively small, but as bright and pleasant building as the rest of the buildings in the square. The church is active, Catholic, one of the favorites of local residents.

Other religious institutions in the city include Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, built on the site of a former mosque and is one of the tallest buildings in Ronda; Church of the Holy Spirit, more reminiscent of a fortress; Church of Our Lady of Peace, in which the statue of Our Lady is located.

In addition, Ronda is home to the largest bullring in all of Spain. Plaza de Toros is a combination of styles: the amphitheater itself is two-tiered, made of sandstone, supported by Tuscan columns, and the building is decorated with Arabic tiles. Today, the arena houses a museum dedicated to the history of the development of bullfighting.

Interesting archaeological sites in the city include Arab baths and Arab fortress gates, preserved in Ronda. Both of these monuments date back to the Moorish era in the history of the city. In another building in the Arabic style is located wine museum, telling about the winemaking traditions of the eras. This is one of the most extensive museums on this topic; exhibitions are presented in 12 halls. The museum hosts themed excursions with tastings.

Neighborhood of Ronda

Of course, the best views of Ronda open from its immediate surroundings; it is from here that you can appreciate the height of the arched Punta Nuevo Bridge, overlooking the El Tajo gorge. Punta Nuevo is an inherently unique engineering structure, consisting of three arched spans and deepened by 98 m. Below in the gorge flows a fast mountain Guadalevin River, another natural wonder of Ronda, which then turns into a waterfall. The bridge connects the old and new quarters of the city; it was built in the mid-18th century.