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Puente Nuevo, which means "New Bridge" in Spanish, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ronda, a picturesque town in the province of Málaga, Andalusia, Spain. The bridge spans the impressive El Tajo gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The structure is known for its beauty, historical significance, and architectural brilliance, making it one of the most visited sites in Spain.
Ronda is easily accessible from major cities in Andalusia, such as Málaga, Seville, and Granada. The nearest airport is in Málaga, which is about 100 kilometers away. From Málaga, visitors can take a bus or rent a car to reach Ronda. Buses run regularly from Málaga's main bus station to Ronda, and the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you are driving, you can take the A-376 or the A-369 roads to reach Ronda. The town itself is relatively compact, and once you arrive, it’s easy to walk to Puente Nuevo from the town center.
The weather in Ronda is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), but the high altitude of Ronda means it’s generally cooler than the surrounding lowlands. The spring and autumn months (April to May and September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, making it a great time to visit. Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C (41°F).
Puente Nuevo can be visited year-round, as it is an outdoor attraction. There is no official opening or closing time for the bridge itself, as it is accessible 24/7. However, the nearby visitor center and museums have specific visiting hours:
It is recommended to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds and to capture the bridge in the most beautiful light.
Puente Nuevo is one of Ronda's most famous and recognizable landmarks. Its dramatic location over the El Tajo gorge makes it a stunning example of engineering and architectural prowess. The bridge’s history dates back to the 18th century, and it has become a symbol of Ronda’s rich heritage and its importance as a cultural and historical hub in Andalusia.
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, Puente Nuevo is famous for the role it played in the town's defense and accessibility. Before its construction, Ronda was only accessible by a precarious and dangerous path. The bridge allowed Ronda to develop further, connecting the two parts of the town divided by the gorge, and it has served as a passageway for both locals and visitors throughout history.
Visiting Puente Nuevo itself is free of charge, as it is an open-air landmark. However, if you wish to visit the Puente Nuevo Viewpoint or the museum dedicated to Ronda's history, there may be a small entry fee. The view from the bridge and surrounding areas is free to enjoy, and there are various viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the gorge, valley, and mountains beyond.
The nearby “La Casa del Rey Moro” (The House of the Moorish King) offers an opportunity to explore more of Ronda’s history and views of the bridge from below, though it requires a small entrance fee.
The construction of Puente Nuevo began in 1759 under the direction of the architect Martín de Aldehuela, but the bridge was not completed until 1793, taking more than 30 years to build. The bridge was designed to span the 120-meter (390-foot) deep El Tajo gorge, connecting the old and new parts of Ronda. The bridge was originally intended to improve the town’s infrastructure and make it more accessible for trade and travel.
The architecture of Puente Nuevo is a fine example of 18th-century Spanish engineering. It stands 98 meters (320 feet) above the Guadalevín River, and it is made of limestone from the local quarries. The bridge consists of three arches, and it has a distinctive, robust appearance with a central arch that is larger than the other two. Its impressive size and design have made it one of the most stunning bridges in Spain.
Aside from admiring the bridge itself, visitors to Puente Nuevo can enjoy several activities in the surrounding area:
