Ronda: Gorge, Architecture and Wine

Ronda brings together a striking gorge within the city, buildings from different periods and wine-related experiences. Its attractions offer different insights: Puente Nuevo illustrates the connection between neighbourhoods; the Plaza de Toros and the Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor reflect architectural and religious history; and the wine experiences focus on production, exhibitions and tastings. If you are looking for a hotel in Ronda, this overview can help you decide which themes you want to shape your stay.

The Gorge and the City Layout

The Tajo de Ronda gorge is more than 100 metres deep and divides the city of Ronda. Puente Nuevo connects the Mercadillo and Ciudad neighbourhoods. In some places, the bridge is about 98 metres high and 70 metres long overall. Its height and length describe different dimensions of the structure; together with its role in connecting the two neighbourhoods, they make Puente Nuevo a distinctive part of the city layout.

In Ronda, the gorge and the bridge are more than two separate attractions: they have different spatial roles. The Tajo divides the city, while Puente Nuevo connects the neighbourhoods mentioned above. Those interested in the cityscape and its architecture will find a clear connection here between landscape and urban structure, without conflating the two.

Architectural History and Collections

The Plaza de Toros de Ronda was built over six years and inaugurated in 1785. It is made of sandstone and has two arcaded galleries; it has no open spectator stands. The arena is considered one of Spain’s oldest and most monumental bullrings. Its visitor offerings include a collection on the art of bullfighting, the Real Guarnicionería de la casa de Orleans, the Galería Ecuestre and the history room of the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda. Visiting hours may change, so it is advisable to check the current schedule before your visit.

The Casa del Rey Moro brings together three distinct features: the Mina de Agua, dating from the Muslim period; a Neo-Mudéjar house that is currently being restored; and a garden designed by Jean Nicolas Forestier in 1912. The historic garden is currently open to visitors; confirm the visiting arrangements before your trip. The Mina descends through a gallery to the riverbed of the Guadalevín, about 60 metres below. As physical access conditions may change, check the visiting conditions before making the descent.

The Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor also brings together different historical periods. It stands on the site of Ronda’s former main mosque. Work on the church began in 1485 and was completed at the end of the 17th century. Its construction history therefore differs considerably in timing from the inauguration of the Plaza de Toros in 1785.

Wine Experiences in Ronda

At Bodegas Excelencia, you can take guided winery tours and learn about the production processes in the vineyard and cellar. Arrangements may need to be made in advance. The winery also has an air-conditioned tasting room overlooking the vineyard. Its maximum capacity is 14 people; confirm availability before your visit.

The Centro Integral del Vino de Ronda offers a different perspective: it has an exhibition and a shop for wines from Ronda, as well as wine tastings and workshops on agricultural and food products. While the guided tour at Bodegas Excelencia focuses on production processes in the vineyard and cellar, the Centro combines an exhibition, a shop and activities. Tasting and workshop dates may change, so check in advance what is on offer when you plan to visit.

Discover more destinations: Montecorto, Alpandeire, El Sexmo, Algarrobo, Villanueva Del Trabuco, Alozaina, El Burgo, Álora

For the wider travel overview: Málaga.