Located in the province of Málaga (Andalucía), Ronda is definitely worth spending the day going up and down the mountain path.
Throughout its history, Ronda has always been of strategic significance, and it became the home of the Celts, the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Visigoths, the Berbers, and the Arabs. After the fall of Granada in 1492, it briefly was a refuge for the Muslims from all over the region who had to hide from the Spanish Inquisition. Much later on, it was invaded by the Napoleonic army during the Peninsula War, giving rise to many a Zorro-like local hero.
Of course, it is nearly impossible to mention the Civil War in Andalucía without immediately mentioning Ernest Hemingway, as it is generally accepted that the scene in which Fascist townspeople are executed by being thrown off a cliff in For Whom the Bell Tolls was based on real-life events that had taken place in Ronda.
Ronda also boasts the oldest bullfighting ring (plaza de toros) in Spain, a rather large affair built in 1784 by the architect José Martin de Aldehuela, who also happened to build the Puente Nuevo, the main attraction of the city.
The Puente Nuevo (“the new bridge”), which towers at an impressive 120 m (390 ft) above over the Tajo canyon, was completed in 1793. I cannot express how gigantic the whole structure looks. I was in awe. I do recommend walking down to the canyon of the Guadalevín and spending some time there to take it all in. The way back is a bit of a hike, but it really is worth it.
Bonus: If by then you’re feeling peckish (and you probably will, what with all that walking), I suggest stopping by at La Bodega de Pata Negra (calle Armiñán, 53) a lovely tapería with very reasonable prices and an extensive wine list. I could go for a nice glass of Jerez-Manzanilla right about now.