Ronda a Wonderful
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The town of Ronda in the province of Málaga stands on a towering plateau in the Serrania de Ronda mountain range.It is widely regarded as one of the prettiest towns in the province and is steeped in history.The town has 2 distinct areas, the medieval part with much Moorish influence and the 18th. centuary Mercadillo which also houses many fine old buildings including the bullring which is the oldest and arguably the most attractive in Spain. It was from here that the Romero family, who are generally held as the founding fathers of modern bullfighting,practised many of their new introductions to bullfighting.
These 2 parts of Ronda are divided by an incredible gorge called el Tajo which is spanned by an 18th. centuary bridge called Puente Nuevo. This is a favourite place for visitors to stand and look down into the river rushing through the ravine below. Rumour has it that Franco's men used this as a good place to dispose of their opponnets.
Crossing the bridge into el Mercadillo area of Ronda you will find some lovely gardens leading to the "Mirador" from where you get the most marvellous views of the surrounding countryside. The bullring is also in this area and this houses a fascinating museum dedicatedto the history of bullfighting. From here be sure to take in the pedestrian shopping area, there are some super antique shops to poke about in.
You can also take a walk around the old city walls and down to the Arab Baths which are said to be the best preserved in Europe.
All in all a visit to Ronda has much to recommend it. It has plenty to offer history buffs with well preserved buildings and artefacts of the various peoples that have settled there throughout the ages. Be sure to visit the the municipal museum housed in el Palacio de Mondragon.
Ronda also has a thriving shopping area,lovely gardens with excellent views and many good bars and restaurants to rest your weary feet in when you have finished site seeing.
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