Ronda

We made the obligatory trip to Ronda, Andalucía's fastest growing town. In the early 21st century it overtook Córdoba in the big three Andaluz tourist attractions, behind Seville and Granada. It is famous worldwide for its dramatic escarpments and views, and for the deep El Tajo gorge that carries the rio Guadalevín through its center.  A big focus is the 18th century Puente Nuevo, 'new bridge', that straddles the 390 foot chasm below and affords unparalleled views out over the Serranía de Ronda Mountains.

The former Bar Valentinos which Marlena and
Kris are remodeling to create a new restaurant.
They will live above it on the weekends when
it is open.

Chatting with Marlena

In the underground parking garages there are red and green lights
that identify open parking spaces. 

Pedestrian shopping street that leads from
parking garage to bullring and Puente Nuevo
and old town

A stop at the bakery is always a must

The gorge and views defy description

Puente Nuevo, (new bridge).  Construction began in 1751 and
took 42 years.  The chasm it spans is 390 feet deep.
The building above it is the Ronda Parador

Across the new bridge is the old city with the traditional narrow, winding cobbled streets and the occasional visible courtyard.  Our stroll brought us onto the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent which boasts a convent, two churches a bell tower and the arched ayuntamiento (council) building.  There we had yet another delicious meal as we basked in the ambiance of the setting.

Slightly charming

I love looking into old courtyards

It is difficult for some people to pass up shops

It's you...get it

"I don't think I have one this color...or at least this
 texture...or this length.

Plaza Duquesa de Parcent.  The arched building is the
 Ayuntamiento (council building),

Bell tower of Iglesia Santa Maria de Mayor

It is always mealtime in the middle of the day.  We had our big
meal between two and four and were fortunate to always find
a perfect spot, most usually outdoors.

A tapa sampler to be shared by two

Sharing experiences with best friends

Another shop?????

...and they have scarves.  Imagine that!

We had a great time talking with the lady of the shop who was so cute
and said she was glad to find tourists who could converse in Spanish.
Usually all she hears is "quanto (how much?") and that's it.

The famous bullring in Ronda

The inner space between the arena floor and the seats is called
the callejón

View from the seats

Afficianados of  la corrida

Safe behind the barrera