Those wishing to see the real Andalusia should deviate from the traditional route and, armed with a four-wheeled friend, comfortable shoes and a camera with a fully charged battery, go deep into Andalusia, where high in the mountains, at a distance of 113 km from Malaga, literally "hovers" over the gorge El Tajo is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain - Ronda!
Ronda is the oldest settlement where the Celts, Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs left their rich heritage!
Everything here fascinates - from the extraordinary, breathtaking landscapes opening from almost anywhere in the city, to some even frightening concentration of attractions on just 481 square kilometers of the area of this city of "white houses".
Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting and is home to the oldest bullring in Spain (Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza), built in 1784!
It was in this arena that Pedro Romero, the founder of modern bullfighting and the most famous native of the city, performed. He has reportedly killed 5,600 bulls during his career. He was the first who, during the battle, dismounted from his horse and began to fight the bull on foot.
Interestingly, the Ronda arena is not only the oldest in Spain, but also the largest in diameter! It is also the only arena with stone barriers.
And it doesn't even matter if you are a bullfight lover or an ardent opponent of it. Here stereotypes are erased and an understanding of the depth of culture, traditions and way of life of many generations of true Andalusians comes!
Naturally, it was not without commerce, so we paid 6 euros per person to enter the arena, but we had the opportunity not only to walk with our own feet in the footsteps of the best bullfighters in Spain, but also to visit the bullfighting museum and even bypass all the "household »The premises of the" plaza de torros ".
This is how the room looks like in which the bulls are kept. Special devices with taut ropes are installed in order to release the angry animal from the cage.
Similar "remote control devices" are installed in corrals and corridors through which bulls are led to the arena.
Since bullfights are not only bulls and matadors, the arena is adjoined by stables that keep the horses for the picadors.
After walking around the spacious stands of the arena, imagining yourself now a modest picador, now a brave bullfighter, or even just a zealous fan, do not forget to look into the "Museo Taurino" - a museum of bullfights and bullfighters, which exhibits everything connected with this truly mystical action , including posters of the first bullfight that took place here immediately after the opening of the arena, in 1785!
Here our attention was attracted by the decoration of the horse of Queen Isabela II.
And blankets embroidered with gold for picadors.
There is also a whole exposition of ancient small arms.
Having got acquainted in detail with the homeland and history of bullfighting, we are heading to a place that can rightfully be called the "calling card" of Rhonda.
After all, it is here, according to statistics, that the maximum number of photos and videos is taken by guests of the city.
This is the famous Puente Nuevo (New Bridge). It was built in the narrowest, but at the same time the deepest (98 meters) place of the gorge. The majestic architectural structure was built in the period from 1755 to 1793.
The architect José Martin de Aldehuela, who supervised the construction of the bridge, according to legend, crashed to death while checking the quality of the work performed.
In the middle of the bridge, between the two extreme arches, you can see a walled up room, with a small window - this is a former prison, and today it is the bridge museum or Centro de Interpretacion del Puente Nuevo.
You can get to the museum by paying 2 euros at the entrance located near the Parador de Ronda.
It would be an exaggeration to say that a visit to the museum of the bridge must be included in the program of acquaintance with the city, since apart from a few successful shots of the gorge, you are unlikely to discover something new for yourself there.
The time has come to answer the logical question of most readers of this article: "If there is a New bridge, then there must be an old one too?" - "Of course I should!" A little away from Puente Nuevo, below, in the gorge, there are two more bridges, one of which, Puente Viejo (Old Bridge), was built already in 1616, and the second, Puente Arabe (Arabian Bridge), was erected by the Arabs on the foundation of the destroyed bridge, the construction of which dates back to the period of the Roman rule!
Near the Arabian Bridge are the Arab Baths, the building of which is considered the most significant building of this type in Spain and dates back to the XII-XIV centuries. But we did not go down to the baths, having decided that the beauty of the view, captured practically from a bird's-eye view, would serve as a wonderful compensation for that!
Having had enough of admiring the extraordinary landscapes with-, above- and, practically under the bridge, as well as having brought the camera to a state close to spontaneous combustion, we, following the rule that the main task of any traveler is to completely immerse in the color of the visited place, went to narrow and friendly the streets of Ronda, in fact, in search of that very flavor, which is more than enough here!
Everything from cozy antique shops, whose products are more like expositions of small private museums
And old abandoned houses, more like small palaces with antique lanterns and doors at the entrance
to unusual passers-by, for example, these nuns with a garbage can, so harmoniously fit into the unhurried pace of city life,
from cozy cafes with slow, but even more friendly waiters,
to the friendly artists who took their places in the narrow streets of the city. Everything is saturated with some extraordinary atmosphere of a warm southern and Andalusian hospitable town.
If you want to take a similar photo, get ready for a long descent and then a long climb up!
You can get here by one of two routes: the first is to go down a steep path straight from the city center. To do this, you need to walk to the small Plaza de Maria Auxiliadora at the edge of the cliff.
The second route is much more interesting, as it obliges you to go through the entire old part of the city, which is fraught with many interesting things!
For example, the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Mary, rebuilt from an Arab mosque, which, in turn, was built here in the XIII-XIV centuries ...
Or the building of the current city hall of the city of Ronda, and in the past - military barracks.
When leaving the gate, we witnessed an entertaining picture, how the waiters in order to get from the “hall” to the “kitchen” each time had to cross the roadway with a fairly busy traffic!
Perhaps this is Ronda - a city that does not obey logic, a city of mixing traditions and cultures, an alluring and mystical city, a city hovering over an abyss!
ContentMap requires Javascript support.
This is how Ronda is described on the city's official website (www.turismoderonda.es).
Ronda is indeed an integral part of the region, giving it charm and unusual flavor.
Ronda is a city and municipality in the northwestern part of the province and also the center of the region (in the Spanish comarca, comarca) Serranía de Ronda. The city has a little less than 37,000 inhabitants.
The city is located on a hill called meseta, in which there is a gorge and the Guadalevín river.
On both sides of the gorge, on both sides of which Ronda is located, there are residential buildings, and tourists can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
The city's many attractions, beautiful landscapes and excellent hotels make Ronda one of the most interesting places to visit, and the bridge over the Tajo Gorge has become a symbol of the city.
The first settlement was founded by the Romans, and the city was then called Arunda. Later, the Visigoths came, and the city continued its development. With the arrival of Muslims, the status changed, and Ronda became already the center of a komarka, or district. The location on the cliff helped to protect the city, and its strategic position opened up access to the lower Andalusia. This, as well as the availability of land for agriculture, gave the city great historical significance.
In the photo, Rhonda's products (liqueurs, canned vegetables and fruits), a showcase in one of the cafes.
History
Although rock paintings and remains of dwellings dating from the Neolithic period have been found in the vicinity of the city, the city of Arunda itself appeared in the 6th century BC. Later, the Phoenicians came and founded the settlement of Acinipo nearby. After the conquest by the Greeks, the city changes its name again, now it is Runda. Then, at the end of the 3rd century, the Roman period begins, and even later it was conquered by the Byzantines, and then by the Visigoths.
The photo shows the ruins of the theater, the settlement of Acinipo.
In 711, the invasion of the Muslim peninsula begins, and in 713 the city practically without resistance opens its gates to the Berber commander Zaide Ben Kesadi El Sebseki. The city changes its name again, now it is called Izn-Rand Onda (walled city) and is the capital of the Andalusian province of Takurunna.
The Islamic period ended on May 22, 1485, after a long siege, the city was taken by King Fernando el Catolico.
After the reconquest, many buildings of the Muslim period were rebuilt (as in other cities, such as La Giralda in Seville or La Mezquita in Cordoba and many others). The city again receives an impetus for development, flourishes, the construction of new districts begins.
In 1572, the Royal Cavalry (la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda) was founded to strengthen the city's defenses. In the XVI-XVII centuries, a part of the city was built, which has survived to this day. The old part takes the name La Ciudad, the Barrio Alto (Upper) and Barrio Bajo (Lower) districts appear, new San Francisco and Mercadillo districts appear, new churches and inns are built.
In the 18th century, the period of the construction of monumental buildings begins again, then the famous Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) and Plaza de Toros, the bullring, were built.
Plaza de Toros, Ronda.
City map
The map can be taken from the tourist office, it is located near the Arena (Plaza de Toros), on Paseo Blas Infante, marked with the letter "i".
It works from Monday to Friday from 10-00 to 19-00, Saturday from 10-00 to 14-00 and from 15-00 to 17-00, Sunday and holidays from 10-00 to 14-30.
The second office is located at Plaza de Espa ña, 1, closer to the New Bridge, it is open in winter from 9-00 to 19-30, in the summer from 9-00 to 20-00 from Monday to Friday,
on weekends and holidays from 10-00 to 14-00.
What to see - attractions, monuments, museums
The main attraction of the city is the Puente Nuevo Bridge (New Bridge, on map 6), located above the Tajo Gorge. The years of construction are between 1759 and 1793, the total height of the bridge is 98 meters.
At one time the premises of the bridge were used as a prison.
The bridge was built to replace the previous one due to its deterioration, one of the designers - José Martín de Aldehuela, he completed the construction.
Excursions across the bridge: Monday-Friday from 10-00 to 19-00, Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 10-00 to 15-00, entrance 2 euros, children under 14 free of charge.
Below the gorge is the Puente Viejo (Old Bridge, map 18), built on the remains of the former Puente Árabe (Arabian Bridge).
Ronda was divided, and still retains this division into three districts: San Francisco, the oldest of the three, La Ciudad, with large buildings, monasteries, churches and palaces, where quaint streets with arches, columns, and finally El Mercadillo, the most modern, founded after the Reconquista, famous for the Baroque style, dazzling white, with shops and souvenir stalls.
The photo shows a diagram of the city, made on asulejo (ceramic tiles) .ç
City districts
District La Ciudad
Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor (Church of St. Mary, the main temple of the city, 11)
The church was built in the 13th century, previously it was an Arab mosque, by order of King Fernando el Catolico it was rebuilt into a church and elevated to the rank of the main temple of the city. Gothic style.
Entrance to the church Monday - Saturday from 10-00 to 20-00, Sunday from 10-00 to 12-30 and from 14-00 to 20-00, entrance 4 euros, children under 12 free of charge.
la Iglesia del Espíritu Santo (Church of the Holy Spirit, 24)
Built by order of King Fernando el Católico, construction began on May 24, 1485, the year the city was taken by the Catholic Kings, completed in 1505. Mixed style, gothic and renaissance.
Open for visits from Monday to Saturday from 10-00 to 14-00, entrance 1 euro.
Casa Consistorial, or Town Hall (12)
The building was built in 1734, previously it housed the military, now there is the City Hall (Ayuntamiento).
Palaces (Palacios) Mondragón (10) and Salvatierra (27)
Casa del Rey Moro (House of the Moorish King, 13)
The first documentary mention of this palace house dates back to the 18th century, but the house was built earlier. The building is completely irregular in shape, it has many labyrinths and stairs, a facade with two towers of different heights, and the gardens are terraced. To raise water from the bottom of the gorge, a staircase with a depth of 60 meters was built.
The palace is currently closed for visits.
Casa del Gigante (House of the Giant, 4)
Alminar de San Sebastián (Minaret of Saint Sebastian, 14)
This square tower used to be a minaret, later became the Church of St. Sebastian.
The tower consists of three parts: the lower, stone, crowned with a horseshoe-shaped arch, the middle brick zone, erected in the 14th century, and the upper, also brick, built after the Christian conquest of the city, served as a bell tower.
Puerta de Felipe V (Gate of Philip V, 16)
After the first New Bridge fell into disrepair in 1741, it became necessary to improve the entrance to the city, since there was a fairly large flow of people and goods. It was decided to use the old, former Arabian Bridge. The bridge was rebuilt and enlarged during the reign of the first king of the Bourbon dynasty on the Spanish throne, Philip V (Felipe V), in 1742, as evidenced by a plaque located next to the gate.
This unique landmark of the city consists of a double arch of masonry topped with three peaks, adorned with the shell of the Dukes of Anjou and the royal shield of the Bourbons.
San Francisco area
Puerta de Almocábar (Gate of Almocabar, 25)
The gate is located in the southern part of Ronda. Built in the 13th century and changed under Charles V. They consist of three successive doors and two side semicircular towers. Guards lived in the towers.
The name of the gate comes from the Arabic word Al-Maqabir, as there is a Muslim cemetery nearby.
In front of the gate, outside the old city, is the Plaza de San Francisco, where on May 20, 1485, Spanish troops gathered for battle under the command of the Marquis of Cadiz. This battle ended the Arab rule in and around Ronda.
The Almocábar gate was rebuilt in 1961. The gate complex was built in the Renaissance style and decorated with the imperial shield of Charles V.
Arab Wall (Muralla Árabe, 9) stretches to the Old Bridge.
Arab Baths (22)
The building is surrounded by a wall with arches. Water is collected in the Serpent Creek (Arroyo de las Culebras) and in the Guadalevin River, rises to the tower and, through a system of aqueducts, is supplied to the baths. The building's heating system was inherited from the Romans.
Visiting hours are from Monday to Friday from 10-00 to 19-00, Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 10-00 to 15-00, entrance is 3 euros, children under 14 are free.
Neighborhood El Mercadillo
Plaza de toros (bullring, 3) belongs to the Royal Cavalry and is the oldest and largest in the world.
The arena and museum are open for visits January-February from 10-00 to 18-00, March from 10-00 to 19-00, April - September from 10-00 to 20-00, October from 10-00 to 19-00, November-December from 10-00 to 18-00.
Tickets are normal € 6.50, with an audio guide € 8.00.
Alameda del Tajo (2) located next to the bullfighting arena. This is a botanical garden with five boulevards. Its balconies offer beautiful views of the Ronda countryside.
Iglesia del Socorro (Church of Salvation) is located in the square of the same name.
Built on the site of a former chapel. The church was burned or destroyed several times, and then rebuilt again.
Iglesia de la Merced (Thanksgiving Church, map 1)
To this day, it is located in the same building that was at the time of construction in 1585.
Open from 10-15 to 13-15 and from 16-45 to 18-45.
Iglesia de Santa Cecilia (Church of Saint Cecilia, 1663), on the map 17.
Iglesia de Padre Jesus (Church of the Father Jesus, late 15th - early 16th century), on the map 21.
Another interesting place in the area is Calle Carrera Espinel. There are many shops on the street, and almost all the commercial life of the city takes place here.
Note - the tourist office is located next to the Arena, marked with the letter "i" on the map. Opening hours are from Monday to Friday from 10-00 to 19-15, on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10-15 to 14-00 and from 15-30 to 18-30.
Museums
Museo municipal located in Palacio Mondragón (map 10). Opening hours Monday-Friday from 10-00 to 19-00, Saturday from 10-00 to 13-45 and from 15-00 to 18-00, Sundays and holidays from 10-00 to 15-00.
The ticket price is 3 euros, children under 14 are free.
Museo Lara (on the map 29)- This is a museum of arts and antiques, located in the former palace of the Dukes of Condé, in its halls it contains more than 2000 works, there is a hall of weapons, a hall of clocks, a hall of collections, a Roman hall, a hall of folk arts and a hall of archeology.
This is the first private museum in Andalusia.
The museum also hosts exhibitions related to the period of the Great Inquisition.
Opening hours June-October from 11-00 to 20-00, November - May from 11-00 to 19-00.
The ticket price is 4 euros.
Museo del Bandolero (Bandits Museum, on map 31), a unique museum that tells the story of bandits who took refuge in the city in the old days. Located in a 19th century building.
The schedule is autumn-winter from 10-45 to 19-00, spring-summer from 10-30 to 20-30, the ticket price is 3.50 euros.
Museo Joaquín Peinado (Museum of the artist Joaquín Peinado, on map 15) contains a collection of things and works by this artist, originally from Ronda.
It works from Monday to Saturday from 10-00 to 14-00 and from 17-00 to 19-00, on Sundays and holidays from 10-00 to 14-00, entrance 3 euros, children under 10 are free.
Museo del vino (Wine Museum, map 32)
The museum tells about more than 6,000 years of history of making wine, in the museum there are 12 rooms, tasting is included in the ticket price, and wine is sold.
Schedule in winter Monday - Saturday from 10-00 to 19-00, Sunday from 11-00 to 15-30, in summer Monday - Saturday from 10-00 to 20-30, Sunday from 11-00 to 15-30, cost on request ...
Museo de caza (Hunting Museum, map 30)
Collection of fauna samples from the vicinity of Ronda (Serranía de Ronda), as well as animals from other continents. Located in an 18th century building.
Open daily from 11-00 to 18-30, entrance € 1.50.
Holidays in Ronda basically the same as in all of Spain, and in particular in Andalusia.
Cabalgata de los Magos Reyes () for the New Year.
Carnival
Semana santa .
Other festivals and fairs.
The most important local holiday in Ronda is La Feria de Pedro Romero.
The holiday originated in the San Francisco area and has been held for over 100 years. Feria dates are 8.9 and 10 September. At first, since 1881, it was called the September Extravaganza (fair), and in 1934 it was renamed and got its current name.
From the second half of August, preparations begin, there are performances in theaters, performances in the streets, song festivals, tournaments, etc. Women wear traditional dress.
At the same time, bullfights are held under the name Tradicional Corrida Goyesca, traditional Goya Bullfighting.
In addition, on January 24, the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Paz (feast of the Virgin of the World), the patroness of Ronda, is celebrated.
Gastronomy
Rhonda's cuisine is based on simple dishes such as tomato and garlic soups, pea and lentil stews, asparagus and mushrooms. They also cook here, los chorizos al alcohol y la ternera con patatas (sausages in wine and beef with potatoes), but Rhonda's cuisine is mainly based on hunting. Traditional dishes are la perdiz al tajo (gorge partridge) and el conejo a la rondeña (rabbit a la Ronda). Dishes such as calabazas a la rondeña (pumpkin a la Ronda), habas con tomate (beans with tomatoes), ajo con jamón (jamon with garlic) are also widespread.
The first courses are sopa de almendras (almond soup), sopa de alcachofas (artichoke soup), gazpacho a la serrana (mountain gazpacho).
The second is served with tortilla a la rondeña (potato casserole a la Ronda), caldereta de cordero (braised lamb), as in lomo relleno de piñones (pork fillet stuffed with nuts) and cochifrito de borrego (boiled and then fried lamb or goat meat with hot spices).
For dessert, they serve yemas del Tajo (eggnog), as well as sweets prepared in monasteries.
produced under the brand name Sierras de Málaga (Málaga Mountains) and are labeled with the name Serranía de Ronda (Ronda Mountains). Wine production has grown significantly since 2004, with white, rosé and red wines being 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. Unusual panoramic views that open to tourists from the top points of the city are simply amazing and have no analogues in the whole world. The visiting card of the city is the bridge over the gorge, which the locals gave the name Tahoe.
History and districts of the city 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 industries. According to the drawings on the rocks 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.
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 small enough 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 retail premises.
Tourists who are here for the first time will walk 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 mentioned areas of the city of Ronda in Spain has its own characteristics and attractions. San Francisco the oldest part of the city, ancient buildings and large buildings are concentrated in it. Here you can see the ancient Almokabar gate, as well as the remains of an Arab fortress.
The gates are three doors at the corners of which there are observation towers.
Area La Ciudad as if created for tourists, it is here that 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 quiet and unhurried pace of life in the city of Ronda in Spain. All the hustle and bustle of business and a lot of shops where you can buy a lot of souvenirs can be found at Plaza del Socorro and along the Can-era de Espinel street.
Most tourists buy traditional symbols of the homeland of bullfighting as a souvenir: a matador's hat and a banderilla.
Attractions of the city "soaring above the ground"
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 the story, the chief architect, checking the work done, crashed to death. In the middle of the bridge there is a separate part with rooms - this was once a prison.
Today it houses the bridge museum. A guided tour of the museum costs two euros, but the exhibits and many new things to learn are worth it. In addition, excellent photos of the gorge can be taken 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, while he was never even wounded.
The first bullfight arena is also located in Ronda in Spain. It is one of the widest arenas in the entire country.
Real Maestranza erected in 1785, today the arena is no longer operating, but it houses a bullfighting museum. The entrance to the museum costs 6 euros. For this money, you will be shown not only the arena itself, but also will take you on 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 in memory of visiting 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 to do with the Moors.
.jpg)
From the windows of the building, guests of the city 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 captives were placed on the steps, that they transferred water from the river upward 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 “the street of the ball”. The street got such an unusual name because of one old tradition. Snow rarely falls in Ronda, but when such a phenomenon occurs, children sculpt a huge ball of snow here.
The ancient churches made in the Gothic style, which are located in the center of the city of Ronda in Spain, are also of particular beauty.
For example, the main altar of the church Santa maria la mayor plated with gold.
The architecture of the city is very diverse, old Renaissance houses with iron balconies go well with modern buildings. On a street called Marques de Saluatferra, you can visit Church of St. Sebastian- San Sebastian
and Cathedral... The latter, in its appearance, looks more like a military fortress than a temple. There are many ruins of ancient fortresses and buildings in the city, but from the majority, practically nothing remains. You can tell in more detail about the former buildings in the museums of the city.
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 the guests about the famous dark personalities of the past centuries and about 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 reveal the secret of the Middle Ages.
Traditional cuisine and hotels in Ronda
If you've visited 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 boda.
Especially popular are the fire-baked kid and sausages in wine. You will be very surprised, because the favorite dessert of the local population is eggnog. In monasteries, you can buy delicious sweets.
Whipped egg whites are used in winemaking, and the yolks are donated to monasteries. The nuns make delicious puddings and biscuits from them. You can buy monastery sweets in a special window of the sanctuary.
The city of Ronda in Spain has its own wine trademark, it bears the label Serranía de Ronda... The production of this drink here began a long time ago, but has retained its ancient traditions of making to this day.
Here you can try rosé, white and even dry red wine. There is even a museum dedicated to winemaking, in which tourists will be offered to get acquainted with the technology of winemaking and the history of its origin 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.
The prices in the catering establishments are quite reasonable, you can have a hearty lunch and drink wine for as little as 20 euros. As for the place to stay, the hotel is quite easy to find here, there are plenty of them here. There are also budget hotels with a price of 30 euros per night, and expensive hotels, for which you will have to shell out more than 100 euros. There are also locals who offer tourists to stay with them. The prices are the lowest there, but if you don’t know Spanish it’s better not to stay with strangers.
More fun
For the most daring and hardy tourists, there is a special offer for descending down the gorge. In general, it does not carry much danger, but you should stock up on water and patience. Going 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, horses that are harnessed to old carts. Markets along the streets, where there is a lot of noise and people, seem to send the Moors in ancient times, who once also walked along the streets and did their usual things.
Once you visit the city that soars over the abyss, you will receive an inexpressible experience that will remain with you for a long time. As one poet said, "the further you move away from this city, the more you will remember it." Do not 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 personifies a living open-air museum which keeps a centuries-old history and will happily convey it to its guests.
And the service site will easily help you to get to Spain. Only here you can buy air tickets at a bargain 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 rocky 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 beautiful mountain nature and ancient architectural monuments, but not for noisy entertainment.
Ronda is considered the birthplace of the Spanish bullfighting. It was in this city that the first battle arena, Plaza de Toros, was built in 1775.
But this is superfluous
Tours to Spain Early booking, discounts up to 35%. Family, youth holidays in the best hotels in Barcelona, Mallorca. Interesting excursions: Dali Theater-Museum, Flamenco Show, Port Aventura, etc. from the travel agency Pegas Touristik WTC LLC. Save money with Pegas Touristik. Installment at 0%.
How to get there
You can only get from Moscow to Ronda with a transfer.
- First, you need to take a charter flight to Malaga (the flight takes an average of 5.5 hours), and then by regular bus (1 hour 50 minutes, ticket price is about 10-15 EUR). Prices on the page are for November 2019.
- Another option is to fly to Seville, from there to Ronda by bus, the price is about 12-20 EUR.
It is also possible to get to Ronda by train, but it is less convenient than by bus - trains run rarely and often you will have to get there with transfers.
- From Madrid trains to Ronda run twice a day (both in the morning), on the way - about 4 hours, ticket prices - from 40 EUR.
- From Malaga you can get there by train in 2-3 hours, the fare is 10-14 EUR, there are two trains per day - at 10:05 and 16:48.
- The train from Seville runs once a day at 12:50, the travel time is about 3 hours, the fare is 42 EUR.
Search for flights to Malaga (closest airport to Ronda)
Ronda Accommodation
Ronda is a popular tourist destination, and although many of them come here one day, accommodation is quite varied and prices are moderate. The minimum room rate is only 25 EUR, although there are also expensive hotels with rooms from 100 EUR.
In the north of the city there are railway and bus stations, around them and closer to the city center are modern and not particularly interesting sleeping quarters, to the south - the new part of the historic center (El Mercadillo), and even further south across the New Bridge is the oldest part of the historic center - La Ciudad ...
The modern part of the city and the quarters around the stations are convenient for those who are passing through the city: close to the stations and there are no problems with parking, unlike the historic center. Accommodation prices are 15-20% lower than in tourist areas, and the hotels themselves, although not so colorful, are comfortable and functional.
In the historic center, there are many tapas bars, restaurants, shops and other things that tourists need. There are also many hotels here, and they are usually located in old buildings. Most of them have small rooms, no heating, so it can get chilly in autumn and winter - the air conditioner may not be able to cope with heating a room with thick stone walls. Air conditioners are 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 the 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 that is not limited to hotel guests. Accommodation cost - from 110 EUR per night for a double room. For thrifty tourists there are also more budget options - a good "three ruble note" 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 bars and antique furniture. Heating and air conditioning are not everywhere, but if it is quite tolerable without air conditioning (it is cool in houses with thick stone walls 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 night 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, which is held annually in the first week of September. Hundreds of people come here, hotels are booked six months in advance, and prices in them soar 2-3 times. If you are not fans of bullfighting, it is better to plan a trip to this city at a different time.
Shopping in Ronda
There are no large shopping centers or outlets in Ronda. In terms of shopping, this city is quite old-fashioned - there are many small family shops and shops 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 of Ronda's shops are concentrated. There you can buy handmade shoes and bags made of genuine leather (including designer ones), jewelry, famous Andalusian ceramics, toys and souvenirs. The same street is the center of parties in the evenings and on weekends, and most of the bars and restaurants are located here.
Cuisine and restaurants
Ronda's cuisine is simple and "peasant", local establishments serve tomato and garlic soup, lentil stew, mushroom and asparagus dishes and, of course, meat. The population of Ronda is hunting, so game is cooked in almost every second restaurant here. The most popular local dishes are fried kid, sausages in wine, stewed beef with potatoes, stewed rabbit, lamb and fried partridges (certainly from the gorge - as it will be written on the menu), pork fillet stuffed with nuts, spicy lamb and much more.
For dessert, yemas del tajo (eggnog) and various monastery sweets are served here. The local wine Serrania de Ronda is produced under the Sierras de Malaga brand and is considered quite good.
Tapas bars are concentrated on the pedestrianized Calle Espinel, where you can grab a bite to eat 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 at the very edge of the gorge. The price tag in the second case will be higher - this is a surcharge for the view. On average, dinner at Ronda's restaurant with wine will cost 15-30 EUR per person.
Ronda city
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:
- Walk down the galleries inside the Puente Nuevo Bridge to the bottom of the gorge.
- Go to the Witch Museum.
- Visit the bullfight at the largest arena in Spain.
- Take a picture with a bronze bull.
- Find out the meaning of the word "tauromakia".
A bit of 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 named it Izna-Rand-Onda ("City with a castle"), hence the current name.
The Arabs who seized the city named it Izna-Rand-Onda, which means "a city with a castle."
Now Ronda 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 13-14 centuries, the cathedral church of Santa Maria de la Encarnasien of the 15th century. , in which the Romanesque, Arabic and Gothic styles are mixed, 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 to him, in Ronda, the Roman bridge (Puente San Miguel), erected by the Arabs in the 13th century on the site of a bridge built in Roman times, and the Old Bridge are partially preserved.
Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting. It was here in 1784 that the first and still the largest bullring in Spain, Plaza de Toros, was built. There is a monument to a bull near Plaza de Toros, and the arena itself is used for its intended purpose to this day. When there are no performances on it, it works as a museum for tauromakia (the art of bullfighting), telling tourists about the development of this unusual action.
The old quarter of the city is pleasant and easy to walk - there are many old 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 has never been “put on the horns”.
In the foothills of Ronda, outside the city, there is a very beautiful nature. These views were repeatedly sung in their works by the 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 bravery of its inhabitants, which is also reflected in their works.
Museums
The most unusual and popular museum in Ronda is the Witch Museum (Museo Lara). The exposition is dedicated to witchcraft and the history of the Inquisition in Spain; the museum is located in a gloomy basement to heighten fear.
In the Wine Museum (Museo del vino de Ronda), the most interesting thing is tastings. The excursion to the cellar costs 5 EUR per person (trial included). An excursion to the factory, where they will tell you about the technologies of making local wine and how to store it, as well as give you the chance to taste more interesting and expensive varieties, will cost 12-20 EUR.
Ronda, Malaga (Spain) is a city in the autonomous region of Andalusia, on the southern coast. This is one of the most picturesque settlements in the region. It is located high in the mountains, and the road leading to it is a serpentine mountain road that runs along the edge of the cliff.
Ronda is divided into historical and modern parts. They are separated by a gorge, over which several bridges are thrown. A 98 m high stone three-arch bridge Puente Nuevo, which was erected in the 18th century, there are also Roman and Arab bridges. Roman is not the main attraction, but it is also a tourist attraction. Arabic is located near the Arab Baths of Ronda. It is distinguished by its small size and antiquity of the building.
Ronda is a developed and modern town, with narrow streets and snow-white houses, which has preserved its historical sights and customs. Most of the buildings date back to the Renaissance.
Climate in the region
The climate in Ronda is typical Mediterranean, moderately hot. Although Ronda is more than 100 km from the sea, the Guadalevin River washes the green and fertile valleys around the village. There is little rainfall throughout the year, with more in winter than in summer. The average annual temperature is 14.7 ° С. + 5-8 ° С in winter, + 25-28 ° С in summer.
Attractions in Ronda (Spain)
Ronda is famous for its historical sights: many churches, palaces, museums. Guided tours are held here.
Main attraction
Salvation Square in the new part of the town looks smart. It is a beautiful square with interesting buildings. On the edges there are restaurants, shops, cafes with tables. Narrow old streets diverge in different directions. In the center of the square, there is a fountain with a sculpture depicting Hercules taming lions. Such a composition is also depicted on the coat of arms of Andalusia.
The Church of the Salvation complements the architectural ensemble, standing out for its white and yellow facade. The building was completely destroyed by fires several times, and each time it was restored. It is a temple of the revered and beloved churches of Ronda. Weddings are often held here.
The Church of Santa Maria la Mayor is the main church and museum. Its façade looks more like a civic building than a religious one. Two styles were mixed - Gothic and Renaissance, because the construction of the church lasted more than two centuries. The walls are built of gray hewn stone.
St. Mary's Church
Inside the church, the interior is striking in its splendor. The Church of St. Mary is listed in the list of cultural and historical monuments in Spain and is open to the public.
Interesting! The Church of Our Lady of Peace is a small temple with only one nave. The main attractions are the altar and the statue of Our Lady of Peace.
The Cathedral Church of the Virgin Mary was carved right into the rock in the 9-10th centuries. Now it is a snow-white one-nave temple covered with red tiles.
The Church of the Holy Spirit is located in one of the old districts of Ronda. Outwardly, the Christian church looks more like a fortress. Inside, the main baroque altar with the image of the Virgin of Antigua and the painting of the Descent of the Holy Spirit attracts attention.
Mondragon Palace. It was once home to the Moorish rulers of Ronda, later to the Christian monarchs. It is a small palace with Mudejar details and original fragments. There are terraces overlooking the valley. A museum is organized on the premises. The palace is small, with many small rooms and passages. A museum is organized in the rooms and halls, weapons and coins are exhibited. There are several visualizations from the life of ancient ancestors.
House of the Moorish King. It got its unusual name from a ceramic panel depicting an Arab prince. The house was built in the 16th century, the Moors did not live in it. The interiors are characterized by an endless number of staircases and corridors. There is a beautiful garden around the building. Near the palace there is a mine 60 m deep to the Mina gorge with a source of drinking water.
Ronda Bandit Museum
Museum of robbers with interesting exhibits: archival documents, real portraits and photos of the robbers themselves, clothes and weapons. One of a kind in Spain. Also interesting is the collection of knives of various sizes - from centimeter to meter.
Wine Museum in Ronda. The people of Ronda are engaged in winemaking and are proud of their wine. There is even a small Wine Museum, which presents interesting exhibitions about the history of winemaking in the region. The museum will tell you about local sorts of drink and offer to taste them.
Bullfighting arena. Ronda is a quiet and calm resort, there is little noisy entertainment, but despite such tranquility it is the cradle of the Spanish bullfighting. Bullfighting is a duel between a man and a bull. There is an arena, a bullfighting museum, a sculpture of a bullfighter and a bull. Nearby is a statue of an Andalusian fighting bull. The bullring is the oldest and largest in Spain. Bullfighting begins on March 19 on St. Joseph's Day and ends in mid-October, when Spain Day is celebrated.
Bullfighting arena
Muslim fortifications. In the distant Moorish times, Ronda was surrounded by fortress walls, part of the territory was protected by the Tahoe Gorge with the Guadalevin River.
The Arab baths have been well preserved to the present day. They were built in the XIII-XIV centuries near the Serpent Creek. From the stream, water rose into the tower through a special system. In the museum you can see fragments of a water supply system, boilers and a water heating system.
Alameda del Tajo is a city park with five streets. They pass by the Plaza de toros bullring and end with a panoramic balustrade overlooking the Tagus gorge and valley.
On a note. The park serves as Ronda's botanical garden. The rarest plant specimens grow in it, there are even bicentennial ones.
The main attraction of Ronda is the overpass through the Tahoe Gorge. Below the river Guadalevin runs, you can go down and walk through the beautiful area. The view is impressive, the Sierra Nevada mountains are visible. There is a restaurant under the arches where you can sit and relax. In this place you can visit an interesting museum - a former prison. Walk along the beautiful Spanish streets of Ronda, buy souvenirs.
The Pileta Cave is located in the vicinity, in the Grazalema Natural Park. It is considered a natural and archaeological museum. But the wall drawings belonging to different periods are more than 3 thousand drawings of animals and various symbols, the meaning of which scientists have not deciphered. Excursions to the cave are accompanied by a guide. You have to climb the mountain for a long time. They recommend bringing warm clothes and flashlights with you.
Holidays in Ronda
Ronda is not a beach resort, the city is far from the sea and is suitable for those who want to get acquainted with the local attractions. As a rule, people come here on a one- or two-day excursion from coastal resorts. It should be included in the tourist program in order to get acquainted with the village "hovering over the abyss". This spectacular view attracts tourists.
Additional Information! The city of Ronda is located in the south of Spain, you can get here by flying to the nearest major center. It could be Malaga or Madrid.
From Madrid an impressive distance (550 km), directly to Ronda can be reached by train, which runs several times a day. Travel time is a little less than 4 hours. When preparing for your trip to Spain, it is helpful to heed the advice of experienced travelers, especially if this is your first visit to the country. Then the rest will be successful and will not be spoiled by various trifles and unnecessary waste of money.
- It is advisable to make copies of the documents and store them separately from the originals and additionally photograph them on the phone. Copies may be needed in case of loss or theft.
- You need to take out insurance for the entire stay. She, too, can be photographed on the phone in order to know the insurance number if necessary.
- Have round trip tickets and book a hotel.
- Spain is part of the Eurozone, the currency that is used throughout the country is the euro. It is better to take with you, so as not to change in banks, since the course may be unprofitable.
- It is better to have both cash and a bank card.
- You don't have to take a lot of things with you. Everything is only the most necessary.
- It is necessary to know in advance whether they will be fed on the plane. If not, take some snacks with you. The flight to Spain is not a short flight, and the food on the planes is expensive.
Spain is a country where you can not only relax on the beach in summer, but also spend time in the off-season. There are many interesting sights and beautiful views, so every tourist will find something interesting for themselves in Ronda.
