Ronda is an intricate jewel in Andalusia, dense with beauty and symbolism, its character has largely been defined by the role it played on the borderlands of the Nazrid kingdom, that diaphanous frontier that was continually in flux, expanding and contracting over centuries in the delicate negotiation between Christian and Muslim states. This citadel in the sky, protected by the rugged Serranía, has become a land of fable on both sides, and in this lecture we will weave our story across these borderlands to discover the treasures within.

About the Lecturer

Rafael Anderson

Rafael Anderson is an architect, writer and historian. He has written and lectured widely on Spanish history, architecture and the Islamic legacy of al-Andalus.

Rafael runs a multidisciplinary architectural practice in the province of Granada entitled Future Ancient Technologies. It combines craftsmen, specialists and other professionals to offer broad skills in all aspects of the construction industry from development to historic restoration and domestic construction.

He teaches architecture and sustainability at the Granada visiting school of London’s Architectural Association, a course which combines the knowledge of ancient and future technologies to explore new possibilities for the age we are entering.

Prior to moving to Spain Rafael worked in London, Hong Kong, Scandinavia and India, he has been premiated in numerous international architectural competitions, widely published and twice exhibited at the Royal Academy in London.

Rafael has worked as a guide lecturer for several years leading tours of the cities of Andalusia including Seville, with the UK based company Specialist Tours. He also guides in the Albayzin with the writer Chris Stewart, and other cultural and historical groups such as the Arts Society.