The Don Bosco House Museum, also known as the House of Saint John Bosco, is an impressive modernist mansion located in the heart of Ronda’s historic center in Málaga. This unique building offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience that combines history, architecture, and unmatched panoramic views.
History and Origins
Built in 1850, the Don Bosco House was originally a private residence belonging to Don Francisco Granadino Pérez and his wife Doña Dolores Gómez Martínez. In the early 20th century, the couple commissioned a renovation by architect Santiago Sanguinetti, endowing the building with its current modernist style.
After the owners’ passing, as they had no descendants, the house was donated in 1939 to the Salesian Catholic Congregation. For decades, it served as a sanatorium for elderly members of the order until it was transformed into the museum we know today in 2008.
Architecture and Interior Design
The interior of the Don Bosco House Museum remains entirely original, showcasing a fascinating blend of styles:
- Modernist elements from the early 20th century
- Mudéjar details
- Neo-Gothic touches
- Classicist influences
Highlights include:
- A patio adorned with Nazarí-inspired tiles
- A collection of regional ceramics
- 19th-century tapestries with pastoral motifs
- Hand-carved walnut wood furniture in 18th- and 19th-century Castilian style
- The impressive fireplace in the main hall
Gardens and Panoramic Views
One of the main attractions of the Don Bosco House Museum is its gardens, built on the edge of Ronda’s famous Tajo gorge. From here, visitors can enjoy:
- Spectacular views of the Guadalevín Valley
- Panoramas of the majestic Sierra de Grazalema
- A balcony with a unique viewpoint overlooking the New Bridge, Ronda’s most iconic monument
Visitor Experience
The Don Bosco House Museum offers its visitors:
- Tours through the mansion’s rooms, admiring its original décor and furniture
- The opportunity to enjoy stunning views from its gardens and terraces
- In peak season, the chance to enjoy a refreshment on the terrace while taking in the scenery
- Occasionally, Spanish guitar concerts at sunset, creating a magical atmosphere
Practical Information
- Location: Calle Tenorio 20, a 5-minute walk from the New Bridge
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Prices: General admission €2.50, groups (6+ people) and seniors €2, children under 14 free
The Don Bosco House Museum is a must-visit for anyone exploring Ronda. It combines historical and architectural richness with unparalleled views, offering a unique experience that captures the essence of this beautiful Andalusian city.
Complete Your Visit to Ronda by Visiting a Winery
To complement your visit to Ronda, we recommend ending the day with a visit to the Doña Felisa Winery, where you can taste exquisite local wines while reflecting on the beauty and history experienced at the Don Bosco House Museum.
At Doña Felisa Winery, you can learn about the winemaking process, from vineyard care to manual harvesting and grape selection. The visit includes a tour of the winery’s rooms and a tasting of selected wines, which can be paired with a delicious meal. Founded in 1999 by José María Losantos and Gema Alonso, the winery has become a benchmark for quality viticulture in the region. Its wines, made with grapes such as Tempranillo, Syrah, Merlot, and Chardonnay, are a true reflection of the D.O.P. Sierras de Málaga.
A visit to the Doña Felisa Winery is the perfect complement to your cultural experience in Ronda, allowing you to enjoy not only the city’s rich history but also its gastronomic and viticultural treasures.
