Iglesia de Santa María de la Encarnación la Mayor Ronda

The Iglesia de Santa María de la Encarnación la Mayor is Ronda’s most important church, with roots stretching back to ancient times. Originally built as a mosque during Muslim rule, it was converted into a Christian cathedral after the Reconquest in 1485. That structure was later destroyed by an earthquake in 1580, leading to the construction of the present church, which remains unfinished. Archaeological findings suggest the mosque itself was built over an earlier Visigothic church, which may have stood atop a Roman temple dedicated to Diana, celebrating Julius Caesar’s victory at the Battle of Munda in 45 BC.

The church stands in the heart of Ronda’s Old Town at Plaza Duquesa de Parcent. Its façade and bell tower make it resemble a civic building more than a traditional church. Inside, you’ll find a small vestibule containing one of the original columns from the post-conquest cathedral, as well as a duplicate of the tower’s hourly bells. This central location makes it an easy stop on any walking tour of Ronda.

Inside the church, visitors can admire a fresco of Christopher Columbus by Ronda-born artist José de Ramos. The balconies added during the reign of Felipe II were once used by nobility to view bullfights and tournaments held in the square below. Today, this square has been transformed into a peaceful park named after the Duchess of Parcent. The church’s mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and later Baroque influences reflects centuries of architectural evolution.

Yes, the church remains active for worship and hosts regular Masses and local religious ceremonies. Entry is free for residents and devotees. For tourists, there’s a €4 entry fee which includes permission to take photos and view Semana Santa (Holy Week) statues. Opening hours vary seasonally:
April–September: 10 am – 8 pm
March & October: 10 am – 7 pm
November–February: 10 am – 6 pm
Note: The church closes for Mass between 1 pm and 2 pm on Sundays.

To enhance their experience, visitors can use the VoiceMap GPS Audio Guide for Ronda, which includes detailed commentary on Santa María la Mayor and other key sites. “Ronda Today” also offers a free downloadable guide and suggests staying overnight to experience the city’s full charm. Walking tours, guided activities, and extended stays allow deeper insight into the city’s rich heritage.

Ronda is compact and walkable. From the church, visitors are just minutes away from the iconic Puente Nuevo, the El Tajo gorge, the Real Maestranza bullring, and multiple museums. Scenic walking routes like the Virgen de la Cabeza trail or Mr. Henderson’s Railway Walk start nearby. The Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is also accessible for day trips.

“Ronda Today” provides detailed information about how to get to Ronda (bus, train, or taxi), where to park, and how to book hotels, hostels, or apartments. The site also includes local maps, travel tips, and affiliate links for convenient booking—making it a one-stop hub for planning a visit.

Clive Muir is the creator of “Ronda Today” and other travel sites focusing on Andalucía. Living in the region for over two decades, he uses his local expertise to curate up-to-date content for English-speaking tourists. He also narrates the GPS audio guide and manages websites for Cádiz, Grazalema, Caminito del Rey, and Wildside Holidays, focusing on nature tourism and walking holidays.

Ronda, often called “the City of Dreams,” blends dramatic landscapes with deep historical roots. The Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor symbolizes this mix—built on centuries of layered history, from Roman to Visigothic, Muslim to Christian. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a longer stay, Ronda offers history, architecture, food, and scenery in one walkable and unforgettable destination.