The Church of Santa María la Mayor is one of the most emblematic sacred monuments of Ronda, Spain. Located in the heart of the old town, this church is a living testimony to the rich history and architectural evolution of the city.
History and Origins
The history of this temple dates back to ancient times:
- Originally, the site housed a Paleochristian basilica from the 5th century AD.
- During the Islamic rule, the Great Mosque of the Medina was built on the same site.
- After the Christian conquest in 1485, the Catholic Monarchs ordered the construction of the current church.
Architecture and Styles
The Church of Santa María la Mayor is a fascinating mosaic of architectural styles:
- Gothic: Visible in its three naves, freestanding columns, and pointed arches.
- Renaissance: Highlighted by the magnificent two-story choir made of walnut and cedar wood.
- Baroque: Elements added in the 17th century, such as the altarpiece of the Virgin of the Greatest Sorrow.
Notable Features
Renaissance Choir
- Lower Choir Stalls: 12 seats with symbols of the Virgin Mary’s litanies.
- Upper Choir Stalls: 24 seats with carvings of the Sacred Heart, apostles, and saints.
Islamic Remains
- The arch of the Mihrab from the old mosque is preserved.
- A piece of wall with ataurique decoration is hidden behind the Sacrarium’s altarpiece.
Altarpiece of the Virgin of the Greatest Sorrow
- Baroque style with three vertical sections and intricate decoration.
- Houses the image of the Virgin of Sorrows, attributed to Montañés or “La Roldana”.
Visitor Information
- Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Sundays: From 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Admission:
- General: €4.50
- Groups and seniors: €3
- Students and people with disabilities: €2
- Children under 10: Free
- Accessibility:
Adapted for people with reduced mobility (advance notice recommended).
The Church of Santa María la Mayor is not only an architectural treasure but also a journey through the history of Ronda. Visiting it is essential to understand the cultural and religious evolution of this beautiful Andalusian city.
A Complementary Experience: Doña Felisa Winery
After exploring the majesty of the Church of Santa María la Mayor, we recommend completing your experience in Ronda with a visit to the Doña Felisa Winery. This family winery offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the winemaking culture of the region:
- Enjoy a guided winery tour in Ronda through the vineyards and facilities.
- Participate in a wine tasting where you can savor the exquisite local wines.
- Learn about the winemaking process and the vinicultural history of the Serranía de Ronda.
The combination of the historical richness of the Church of Santa María la Mayor with the oenological experience at Doña Felisa Winery will provide you with a comprehensive view of Ronda’s culture and traditions.
