Ronda
The town of Ronda is located in the North-Western part of the province of Malaga . It stands on top of two mountains and is divided by a gorge which is spanned by a spectacular stone bridge. Ronda´s atmosphere is unique, in that its located so high above the surrounding landscape. Marvellous views can be enjoyed from here. Every evening, visitors can enjoy magnificent colorful skies and a very romantic ambience for which the town is famous.
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Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Spain . The early habitation of the surrounding landscapes is visualized by the ancient cave paintings of Pileta. The Romans also settled here, seemingly unable to resist the charms of Ronda and left their traces throughout the town. Still, the "Golden Age" of Ronda occurred in the medieval ages. The town's status and significance, in spite of its relatively small size, began to grow and was developed fully with the Muslim influence. The Christian reconquering of Ronda in the year 1485 restructured the town both culturally and economically.
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Andalucia's significance grew furthermore in the 18 th century, when two important monuments were erected in Ronda: The New Bridge and the bullring. Famous bandits had settled in the region around Ronda at that time. Well known bullfighting dynasties called Ronda their home and made it the centre of Spanish bullfighting. Since that time, Ronda has been an inspiring place to visit due to the romantic townscape with it´s special and unique history as well as the marvelous surrounding nature. Ronda today still retains its traditional charms.
By the way, the 100m-high-bridge is really an architectural masterpiece. The myth around its architect is a bit spooky though. After he finished his work, he fell off the bridge when he tried to recapture his hat which the wind had blown away.
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Ronda - El Gastor
El Gastor is also called "Balcony of the White-Villages", due to its location high up in the hills. The town is situated between Algodonales, Ronda, Grazalema and Olvera, near the gorge of Algarin. Agriculture and stock farming are the main sources of income. However, a very pleasant form of tourism (ecotourism) grows within this area slowly but steadily.
Back in the days, Jose Maria "El Tempranillo", one of the last famous bandits of Ronda lived in El Gastor. It is also the birthplace of the well known guitarist Diego de El Gastor. On the 7th of October each year, the "Virgen del Rosario" (virgins of Rosario ) are being celebrated with a festive " Corpus Christi " - procession through town. The last Friday in August rings in the 3-days-fiesta of the town. It is a typically Spanish fiesta with live music, wine and dancing.
El Gastor is a perfect starting point to discover the surrounding area of Ronda, hike through the Sierra de Grazalema or visit la Brena's holm wood, from where marvellous views can be enjoyed. Among many other trips, the nearby towns of Jerez or Sevilla are well worth a visit!
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