Mondragón Palace or Marquis of Villasierra
This palace, dating from the 14th century, is one of the most emblematic monuments of the city and a notable example of Mudéjar civil architecture in Andalusia.
History
The Palace of Mondragón has its origins in the Muslim era when Ronda was an important fortified city on the border between the Christian and Muslim kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula. It is believed that the construction of the palace began in the 14th century during the reign of the Nazarí king Abomelic and was completed in the 16th century under Christian rule.
Over the centuries, the palace has been the residence of several nobles and important figures, including the Marquis of Villasierra, who made significant renovations and expansions to the building during the 18th century. Today, the Palace of Mondragón houses the Municipal Museum of Ronda, which tells the history of the city and displays an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts.
Architecture
The Palace of Mondragón is a magnificent example of Mudéjar architecture in Andalusia, characterized by its elegance, sobriety, and fusion of Islamic and Christian elements. The palace consists of several patios, gardens, halls, and galleries distributed around a central patio, which acts as the organizational axis of the architectural ensemble.
The facade of the palace is sober and elegant, with decorative details in brick, ceramics, and plaster that reflect the Islamic influence in its design. Inside, one can admire carved wooden ceilings, decorative tiles, brick arches, and beautiful ornamental details that showcase the craftsmanship of Mudéjar artisans.
Gardens
The gardens of the Palace of Mondragón are equally impressive, with flower beds, fountains, ponds, and sculptures that create an atmosphere of serenity and beauty. The gardens extend over several levels and offer spectacular views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Municipal Museum of Ronda
The Municipal Museum of Ronda, located in the Palace of Mondragón, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn about the history and culture of the city. The museum has a wide collection of art and historical artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, archaeological tools, and other objects of interest.