You are now walking through the Alameda del Tajo Park, opened in 1806 during the reign of Charles IV and once known as the Alameda de San Carlos, funded in a rather unusual way through fines imposed on anyone who swore or caused trouble—money that went straight into planting trees. The park stretches from the Parador Hotel to the Vicente Espinel Theatre and the Blas Infante Park, and still preserves centuries-old pines, acacias and Himalayan cedars, some of the oldest in the province of Málaga. Its five tree-lined avenues, fountains, rose-covered pergolas, duck pond, aviary and playground offer cool, sheltered spots to rest. At the main entrance, the statue of the Dama Goyesca evokes the traditions of Ronda’s feria, and throughout the park you’ll find monuments honouring figures linked to the city, including Blas Infante, Orson Welles, Ernest Hemingway and Pedro Romero. A walk that’s as peaceful as it is full of history.