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.
How to buy the convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?
The purchasing process at the convent is charmingly archaic. Upon entering the “shop,” visitors will see a small room with a “lazy Susan” installed on the wall. The nuns, who avoid direct contact with the public, will not be visible.
On the wall beside the “lazy Susan”, you can find a pricelist and select which sweets they want to buy. They then ring a buzzer on the wall, and after a few minutes, they will hear the voice of a nun greeting them and asking for their order. Just order your items and the “lazy Susan” will then turn, presenting your order and the bill.
The transaction is based entirely on trust. Visitors place their payment on the “lazy Susan”, and the nun will retrieve it. If there is any change, the nun places it on the “lazy Susan” for you to collect.
This charming and unique experience of buying convent sweets and pastries in Ronda preserves a centuries-old tradition while also supporting the financial stability of the convent. Hopefully, more people will have the chance to try these delicious sweets and appreciate the history and culture behind them.
Where to find the convent sweets and pasties shop in Ronda?
You’ll find the shop behind the main building. As you stand on the steps and face the church you will see the sign on the left directing you around to a side entrance. The church is located not far from the entrance to the Alameda gardens.
The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is one of Ronda’s more curious churches, and is the convent for the nuns and priests of the Discalced Carmelites of Ronda. Previously they resided in the Santa Cecilia church. Read the full article about this church here: https://rondatoday.com/iglesia-de-nuestra-senora-de-la-merced-ronda/
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