Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda — Attraction in Ronda

Visited in August 2024

Truly interesting historical site that we wished we could have witnessed a bull fight but sadly it was the wrong time of year. This is a gem and has been impeccably kept up. The museum is full and very interesting. Not to be missed

The Plaza de Toros de Ronda is a Bullring in Ronda. The Royal Box has a sloping roof covered in Arabic tiles. The design of the main entrance to the bull ring features two Tuscan columns and the royal shield of Spain surround by baroque edging. The main door is large enough to allow horses and carriages to enter the ring, and above the door is an iron wrought balcony that embodies the bullfighting culture.

The city of Ronda is home to the Real Maestranza de Caballería, the oldest and most noble order of horsemanship in Spain since 1485. In that year, the Catholic King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella won Ronda back from the Moors and ended over seven centuries of Islamic rule. Construction of the bullring started in 1779 and finished in 1785. It stands on the west edge of Ronda, about two blocks from Puente Nuevo and the El Tajo canyon. While it may not be the oldest bull fighting ring in Spain, it is one of the first entirely constructed from stone, instead of a combination of stone and brick. The architecture is also unique in that all seating in the ring is covered. It is considered a rather small arena with only five thousand seats, but the bull ring itself is the largest in Spain. Ronda's first inaugural bull fighting event in May of 1784 resulted in a partial collapse of the stands, and the structure had to be closed temporarily for repairs. It reopened the next year in May of 1785 with its second inaugural event, which is known as one of the greatest bullfights in Ronda's history. Rivals Pedro Romero and Pepe Hillo faced each other in front of the most noble families in Ronda.

The bullring also houses a museum dedicated to the spectacle. The Museo Taurino holds two centuries of famous bullfighting regalia and important outfits. The collection also includes an extensive amount of weapons used by the Real Maestranza in Spanish war. The museum is open all year except the week of the Feria in September, and costs 9.00...

The Ronda Bullfighting Ring, or Plaza de Toros de Ronda, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty. Completed in 1785, it stands as one of Spain's oldest and most revered bullrings. Its neoclassical design, characterized by its stately stone arches and spacious arena, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of 18th-century Spanish architecture.

This historic venue is closely tied to the legendary Romero family, particularly Pedro Romero, who is credited with shaping modern bullfighting techniques. The ring's significance in the evolution of bullfighting makes it a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts of the tradition.

Visitors to the Ronda Bullfighting Ring can explore its comprehensive museum, which houses a rich collection of bullfighting memorabilia, including costumes, photographs, and weapons. The museum provides a deep dive into the history and artistry of bullfighting, offering a nuanced perspective on this traditional Spanish spectacle.

Walking through the arena and its surrounding galleries, one can almost hear the echoes of past corridas, where matadors displayed their skill and bravery. The ring's majestic setting, perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff overlooking the El Tajo Gorge, adds to its allure, making it not just a historical site but also a scenic marvel.

Whether you're a bullfighting aficionado, a history buff, or simply a traveler seeking to experience Spain's cultural heritage, the Ronda Bullfighting Ring offers an enriching and unforgettable experience. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of bullfighting in Spanish culture and the timeless...

Our visit to the Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda was a fascinating journey into one of Spain’s most iconic traditions. As one of the oldest and most revered bullrings in the country, this site is rich with history and culture.

The architecture of the bullring is impressive, with its classic Andalusian design and grand stone arches. Walking through the arena, we could almost feel the weight of the past events that have taken place here. The museum attached to the bullring provided excellent context, with exhibits that detailed the history of bullfighting and the role it has played in Spanish culture.

What made the experience even more engaging was the chance to explore behind the scenes. We walked through the stables and saw the beautifully preserved costumes and equipment used by the matadors, which added a personal touch to the history we were learning about.

Even if you’re not a fan of bullfighting, the bullring is worth a visit for its architectural beauty and the insight it offers into a significant aspect of Spanish heritage. The staff were friendly and provided informative guidance throughout our visit, making it a truly memorable experience.

If you find yourself in Ronda, the Bullring of the Royal Cavalry is a must-see attraction that offers a unique glimpse into the traditions...