The church was built directly atop the foundations of the ancient Aljama Mosque, and traces of the original minaret remain visible in the bell tower.
Construction took nearly two centuries, leading to the blending of the late Gothic vaults with the later Renaissance-style nave.
The interior contains a notable silver tabernacle and a collection of significant religious sculptures used in Ronda's Holy Week processions.
The structure served as the city's main collegiate church, reflecting the importance of Ronda during the post-Reconquista period.
Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor occupies the site of a former 13th-century Great Mosque of Ronda. The building features a stylistic synthesis of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural elements due to centuries of construction. Visitors can access the bell tower and a roof terrace that provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Serranía de Ronda. The interior retains the original mihrab arch from the mosque, currently preserved behind a later Christian altar. Its construction began following the Christian conquest of the city in 1485. The church was elevated to a collegiate status in the 15th century by King Ferdinand the Catholic. The main facade features a distinctive two-story Renaissance portico with balcony columns.
The view from the rooftop balcony looking over the rooftops of Ronda toward the Tajo Gorge.
Climb the stairs to the bell tower for the best vantage point of the historic center.
Check the perimeter walls carefully to spot the remains of the original Moorish masonry integrated into the Christian stonework.
Pair your visit with a walk through the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, which is considered the administrative and historical heart of Ronda.
Do not mistake the smaller, nearby chapels for the main cathedral; ensure you are entering the large collegiate church on the plaza.
Shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect for an active place of worship; maintain a quiet tone.
