Casa del Rey Moro
Calle Cta. de Santo Domingo, 9, Ronda, Málaga, 29400
Built on the remains of an old Moorish palace in Ronda’s old town, Casa del Rey Moro (House of the Moorish King is best known for its hanging gardens and water mine. Despite its name, the space was never inhabited by a Moorish king. Visitors are often most excited to see the 14th-century water mine, which was constructed to provide the city with a secret supply of water during times of siege.
The basics
The clever water mine was built by Moorish King Abomelic and proved to be an invaluable secret of the city, allowing the Ronda to remain under Moorish control. It wasn’t until King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella discovered the water supply in 1485 (during the Reconquest) that the water was cut off, resulting in the end of Moorish rule over the city.
The pathway to the mine consists of a series of steep, interconnecting stairways that lead deep down to the bottom of the El Tajo Gorge. After a few hundred steps and 390 feet (120 meters) down, the cavernous stairs open up to reveal the beautiful Guadalevín River and views of Puente Nuevo (Ronda’s famous arch bridge) from a little wooden platform.
Things to know before you go
- Do not visit the water mine if you are claustrophobic, and be prepared for a relatively strenuous climb back up.
- Stairs are deep and sometimes slippery so wear comfortable shoes with a good tread.
- There is no disabled access.
- Guided tours are available for groups; free audio guides can be downloaded onto your smartphone.
How to get there
Casa del Rey Moro is an easy 3-minute stroll just beyond Puente Nuevo. Head southeast on Calle Armiñán toward Calle Tenorio before turning left on Calle Cuesta de Santo Domingo.
When to get there
The historical site is usually open daily from 10am to 9:30pm, May through September, and 10am to 8pm, October through April.
Explore the Rest of Ronda
The best way to see the city is on foot and, luckily, Ronda is a very walkable town. Explore the rest of the old town, including the ruins of an Arab bath, before venturing around the new town, El Mercadillo. Be sure to tour Plaza de Toros de Ronda as the city is the birthplace of bullfighting in all of Andalusia and Spain.
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