Iglesia de Padre Jesus (Father Jesus Church), Ronda

The Father Jesus Church is a historic Catholic church believed to be the site of the city’s first Christian worship before the Muslim period. Its origins likely date back to the late 15th or early 16th century, built initially in a Gothic style.

Originally dedicated to Santa Cecilia, the church was once a bustling parish, though it fell into disuse after the population shifted closer to the newer market area.

The church holds significant cultural importance for Ronda, being the baptismal site of notable figures such as the poet Vicente Espinel and the bullfighter Cayetano Ordóñez, known as Niño de La Palma.

The building was largely rebuilt in 1755 with Renaissance influences, but its Gothic bell tower remains from the original structure.

Inside, the church features a wooden ceiling with intricate carvings, a Baroque chapel, and a rectangular floor plan with three naves. Father Jesus Church is also home to the revered image of “Padre Jesús Nazareno,” which plays a central role in the city’s Easter celebrations.

Outside, visitors can spot the nearby Ocho Caños fountain and a statue honoring Aniya la Gitana, a celebrated locally born flamenco singer.