Ronda

Ronda

Perilously clinging to a sheer cliff, Ronda stands at a dizzying height and offers thrilling views of the dramatic landscape. About 85 kilometers from Arcos de la Frontera, the town straddles the El Tajo Gorge with the emblematic Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) crossing the 98-meter deep ravine. Besides its spectacular setting, Ronda is famous for bullfighting and its Plaza de Toros is Spain’s second oldest bullring. Ernest Hemingway immortalized the romance of Ronda and bullfighting in several of his novels. In the old town (La Ciudad), the quaint narrow streets and whitewashed buildings reveal a rich Moorish inheritance. The ancient Arab Baths in the Barrio de San Miguel are further proof of the Islamic influence. Another interesting historical narrative is the story of the town’s bandits, illustrated at the Museo del Bandolero (Museum of Bandits). During spring and summer, Ronda comes to life with its festivals. The Fair of Pedro Romero features folkloric shows, flamenco singing, and Goyaesque bullfighting. Other events include the May Fair, a traditional agricultural festival, and the Roman Pilgrimage that reenacts a fiesta of ancient Rome.