Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor, Gothic church in Ronda, Spain
The Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor is a church in Ronda that combines Gothic and Renaissance styles, featuring three naves separated by pointed arches supported on clustered pillars. The structure spans multiple levels and uses natural light through large windows to illuminate the interior spaces.
Following the Christian conquest of Ronda in 1485, construction began on the site of a former mosque. The work continued into the late 1600s, reflecting the city's religious transformation after the conquest.
The interior preserves an arch from the former mosque's mihrab, showing how Islamic and Christian building traditions coexisted in medieval Spain. Visitors notice this blend of religious styles throughout the walls and architectural details.
Visitors can climb to the church roof through a designated access point to view the surrounding landscape and neighborhoods of Ronda. The roof offers wide views of the city and the surrounding gorge.
Inside hangs a large chandelier with 34 lights and roughly 24,700 glass pieces, creating a striking visual effect when lit. This ornament comes alive through both natural light from above and artificial illumination of the central nave.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
