Churches Archives - Ronda Today

Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?

July 10, 2024 by Clive Muir

In Spain, many convents earn a living by selling handmade sweets, pastries, and confections. The recipes have been passed down through the centuries with some dating back to the times of the Romans and Moors. However, with fewer nuns and the closing of many convents, this tradition is at risk of being lost. So, Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?

One of the convents preserving this ancient tradition is the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced in Ronda. The convent has a small bakery where visitors can purchase unique and delicious “Convent Sweets” while also supporting the nuns financially.

Every day, many people visit the Nuestra Señora de la Merced church and take photographs. However, they often continue on to other popular tourist destinations in Ronda, such as the Alameda gardens, bullring and Puente Nuevo As a result, they may miss out on a fascinating and hidden corner of daily life in Ronda.

Clive Muir

I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!

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Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced Ronda

July 10, 2024 by Clive Muir

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is one of Ronda’s more curious churches, and is also a convent for the nuns and priests of the Discalced Carmelites of Ronda. Previously they resided in the Santa Cecilia church.

The term “Discalced Carmelites” refers to a branch of the Carmelite Order within the Catholic Church, known for their reform movement initiated by Saint Teresa of Avila and Saint John of the Cross in the 16th century. “Discalced” literally means “without shoes,” symbolizing their commitment to a life of poverty, simplicity, and strict adherence to the contemplative traditions of the order. This reform emphasized a return to the original spirit of the Carmelite hermits, focusing on prayer, community life, and austerity.

La Merced is more correctly a “Basilica” since it is home to a holy relic. The “incorruptible hand of Saint Teresa of Avila” and the story behind this is in itself worth telling even if you never visit the church. (Although if you visit Ronda you’ll most certainly see the church as you pass by the Alameda gardens.)

This is also the place where you can try out the curious way of buying sweets and pastries from the nuns who reside here: https://rondatoday.com/where-to-buy-convent-sweets-and-pastries-in-ronda/

Clive Muir

rondatoday.com/

Iglesia de Santa Cecilia in Ronda

March 23, 2023 by Clive Muir

Dating from 1663, the Iglesia de los Trinitarios Descalzos as it was first known, was the third home of the “Order of Descalzed Nuns” of Ronda, who nowadays are located in the convent attached to the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced.

The plaza in front of the church, Plaza Los Descalzos, still retains the name of the order.

An older Christian chapel, the “Ermita del Cristo de las Penas o Peñas” occupied this site from mid 16th century, being demolished to make way for the church you see today. In 1836 the Descalzed Order vacated the church and convent, and a school was established on the site using the church as their chapel.

Clive Muir

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Espiritu Santo

March 23, 2023 by Clive Muir

Despite its formidable appearance, the Holy Spirit Church is actually one of Ronda’s most noteworthy religious sites. What makes it particularly unique is that it’s integrated into the original fortified walls of the old city, and was even constructed on the foundations of a former octagonal tower once used by the Moors to defend the gate and walls in this part of Ronda. As a result, the church’s structure has a rich history and tells a fascinating story of the city’s past.

Clive Muir

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10 things to do in Ronda for free

May 22, 2023March 16, 2023 by Clive Muir

Guided day trips to Ronda from Cádiz and Jerez

Looking to experience all that Ronda has to offer on a budget? There are plenty of things like our Guided Audio tour, museums, and other activities that have to be paid for in Ronda. But, there are still many things that you can do on a limited budget! Here is our list for 10 things to do in Ronda for free!

View from the alameda, Ronda. Poetry about Ronda — View from the alameda, Ronda

Clive Muir

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