Floating over the Ronda Gorge: an extraordinary city on the rocks (14 photos)

This city, hovering over a precipice, is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. Tourists from all over the world flock here. Everything about it is captivating—from the extraordinary, breathtaking views that open up from virtually anywhere in the city to the almost daunting concentration of attractions within just 481 square kilometers of this city of "white houses."





The picturesque town of Ronda is located in the Spanish province of Málaga. It literally "floats" over a ravine, as it sits 723 meters above sea level and overlooks the steep El Tayo canyon, which divides the city in two.



Ronda is one of the most ancient cities in Spain, as evidenced by numerous archaeological finds from the Paleolithic, Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Greek settlements. During Roman times, it was called Arunda and was considered an important trading center of the province.





In the 8th century, Ronda was declared the capital of an independent Moorish emirate, which existed until 1485. The old part of modern Ronda remained one of the last Moorish strongholds in Andalusia: the Tayo Gorge always stood as an insurmountable barrier to the Christians. Ronda was only conquered in 1485.



The city has been declared a National Monument of Spain. The gorge divides it into two parts: the 13th-century old town and the 18th-century new town. The two parts are connected by the so-called New Bridge, built in the 18th century, a symbol of the city.



Notably, the interior of the bridge was once used as prison cells. Ronda also has the Puente Viejo, an old bridge located a little further down the gorge.



Ronda is considered the cradle of Spanish bullfighting. It was here that the very first, largest, and most majestic bullfighting arena was built. The arena opened with great pomp in 1785 in the presence of royalty and nobles, and was attended by Pedro Romero and Pepe Hillo, the leading bullfighters of the time. Performances are still held in this arena today.



Ronda's commerce is concentrated on Carrera Espinel Street—it's where numerous tourists stop in search of memorable souvenirs. But the most important thing you'll take away from here is a vivid impression and a desire to return again.



Currently, picturesque Ronda, one of the largest "white towns" in Andalusia, has become a popular tourist destination.



Ernest Hemingway spent many months in this amazing city. He mentioned it in his works, praising its incredible beauty, which greatly contributed to the city's fame and made it a popular tourist destination.