The Mondragón Palace, also known as the Palace of the Marquis of Villasierra, is one of the most emblematic civil monuments of Ronda, Spain. Located in the old town of the city, this building combines Mudejar, Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles, offering visitors a unique experience that blends history, architecture, and culture.
History of the Palace
Originally, the palace was an Andalusian residence built in the 14th century. Legend has it that it was inhabited by Abbel Malik, son of the Sultan of Morocco Abul Asan. After the Christian conquest of Ronda in 1485 by the Catholic Monarchs, the palace passed into the hands of Captain Melchor de Mondragón, who gave it its current name. During the Christian era, significant architectural modifications were made, giving it its present appearance.
Architecture and What to See
The Mondragón Palace stands out for its complex structure, which includes several courtyards, each with its own charm:
- Entrance Courtyard: Known as the courtyard of the well, it dates back to the 18th century and features a beautiful gallery with semicircular arches and Renaissance Corinthian columns.
- Mudejar Courtyard: From the 16th century, it offers a fascinating mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudejar styles.
- Late Gothic Courtyard: Features stone columns and reused capitals, providing access to the museum rooms.
The palace façade was renovated in the 18th century in a Baroque style, incorporating elements such as square towers and a portal with Ionic and Corinthian columns. Inside, the highlight is the Noble Hall, with an impressive Mudejar coffered ceiling.
What to Do at the Palace
Visit the Ronda Municipal Museum
Currently, the Mondragón Palace houses the Ronda Municipal Museum. This museum offers a permanent collection that narrates the history of the region through various archaeological investigations:
- Explore archaeological exhibitions spanning from prehistory to modern times.
- Discover artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the rich history of Ronda and its surroundings.
Enjoy the Views
From the palace gardens, take the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the El Tajo Gorge and the surrounding landscape, offering a unique perspective of the city.
Join a Guided Tour
Opt for a guided tour to gain detailed insights into the history and secrets of the palace. These tours enrich the experience and help uncover details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: Open daily, with variable hours depending on the day of the week.
- Admission: General admission €4, with discounts for groups, students, and seniors. Free for children under 14 and people with disabilities. Monday afternoons free for EU citizens.
- Accessibility: The palace is accessible to people with disabilities.
The Mondragón Palace is an ideal destination for lovers of history and architecture who wish to delve deeper into Ronda’s past. A visit here offers a profound immersion into the historical and cultural evolution of the city.
A Complementary Experience: Doña Felisa Winery
To complement your experience in Ronda, don’t forget to include a visit to the Doña Felisa Winery. This family winery is a reference in Ronda and offers guided tours and wine tastings, allowing you to discover the unique flavors of the Serranía de Ronda.
At Doña Felisa Winery, you can learn about the wine-making process, from vineyard care to manual harvesting and grape selection. The visit includes a tour of the winery’s facilities 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. Their wines, made from grapes such as Tempranillo, Syrah, Merlot, and Chardonnay, are a faithful reflection of the D.O.P. Sierras de Málaga. A visit to the Doña Felisa Winery perfectly complements your cultural experience in Ronda, allowing you to enjoy not only the rich history of the city but also its gastronomic and wine treasures.
