Ronda is one of the oldest cities in Spain. Its origin, according to archaeological findings in the old town belongs to the Neolithic Age. Sites found at nearby caves, the Pileta's Cave being the most important one, depicts one of the best cave paintings examples of all the Paleolithic Age in Andalucía. Proving that there were settlements in the area prior to what was discovered in the old town.   

                                                                                                                              

The Roman conquest era of the Iberian Peninsula has left substantial traces of historic buildings, roads and bridges, the most important of which can be found within the city of Ronda. Without a doubt, the most predominant archaeological site of the region is the Roman city of Acinipo, due to the conservation state and also because of some of the elements characteristic for a classic Roman city, e.g., the theater.

The 18th Century and the arrival of the Modern Age, gave Ronda its definitive role within Andalucía. During that time period, the most relevant and known monuments of the city where built, as distinguished signs of the aristocratic heritage and the present Ronda: The New Bridge and the Bullring.

In the early 21st century - Ronda retains much of its historic charm, particularly its old town. It is famous worldwide for its dramatic escarpments and views, and for the deep El Tajo gorge that carries the Rio Guadalevín through its centre. Visitors make a beeline for the 18th century Puente Nuevo 'new' bridge, which straddles the 100m chasm below, for its unparalleled views out over the Serranía de Ronda Mountains.

Ronda is also famous as the birthplace of modern bullfighting, today glimpsed once a year at the spectacular Feria Goyesca (see our Attractions Directory for dates in 2009). Held at the beginning of September, here fighters and some of the audience dress in the manner of Goya's sketches of life in the region.  Legendary Rondeño bullfighter Pedro Romero broke away from the prevailing Jerez 'school' of horseback bullfighting in the 18th century to found a style of bullfighting in which matadores stood their ground against the bull on foot.  In 2006 royalty and movie stars were helicoptered in for the Goyesca's 50th anniversary celebrations in its small bullring, while thousands jammed the streets and parks outside.  Otherwise the bullring, Plaza de Toros, is now a museum, and visitors can stroll out into the arena as well as get a comprehensive view of view the ‘backstage’ area!