Gaze at the Puerta de Almocábar, an architecturally impressive ancient stone gateway. It’s one of the most striking parts of the remains of Ronda’s Moorish battlements. Puerta de Almocábar was built in the 1200s as the portal to the town’s citadel. It takes its name from the Arabic word al-maqabir, a reference to a cemetery that once stood in the square opposite.
The gateway features a horseshoe-shaped entrance flanked by two semicircular towers. Climb to the top of the towers, walk along the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views over the townscape and the Andalusian countryside. Contemplate a time when the fortifications and El Tajo Gorge made Ronda an almost impenetrable town.
Next to this entrance is an additional archway, Puerta de Carlos V, added in the 16th century by King Charles V. Notice the coat of arms of this former king of Spain above the arch. Near the gate is a water trough for horses.
Walk though one of the portals to a quiet courtyard. Sit at one of the bars, order a selection of tapas and enjoy views of the gateway. Plaza Ruedo Alameda, which faces Puerta de Almocábar, also offers uninterrupted views.
Follow the path of the wall north into the heart of Ronda’s old quarter, La Ciudad. Pause at lookouts, which provide vistas of rolling green hills. Stop at other historic landmarks such as Puerta de la Cijara. Continue to Puente Viejo bridge, from where you can peer down the steep cliffs of El Tajo Gorge.
Puerta de Almocábar is about a 10-minute walk from Puente Nuevo and 25 minutes by foot from Ronda’s train station. Parking is available on the streets that surround Plaza Ruedo Alameda. Visit other attractions while in the area including Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, the Church of Santa Maria la Mayor and Palacio de Mondragón. The Arab Baths and Museo Lara are also nearby.
