Bullfighting In Madrid

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Published: August 25, 2006

align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The fight begins with the bull entering the arena, where the Matador's chief assistant will wave a brightly colored cape, a capote, in front of the bull to agitate it. This will allow the Matador to determine the mood of the bull and what type of qualities the bull possesses. Once the trumpet is sounded, a group of Picadores enter the ring. They begin to weaken the bull by placing sharp spears into the body of the bull for over 10 minutes. The Matador then takes over. The goal for the Matador is to sink his sharp espada, also known as a sword, deep into the shoulder blades of the bull while performing his feana, or dance. If the audience is displeased with the bull at any time during the fight they will wave a green flags at the President until he waves his green flag. The bull is then replaced. Once the bull is put to death by the Matador, the President will then award trophies of the bull's ears, tail and hooves to the Matador for his skills. The spectators wave white handkerchiefs in the air for the President to award the Matador with trophies and will continue waving until their demands are met.

Since bullfighting is a historic pastime to the people of Madrid one should refrain from criticizing the sport. Although you may not agree with this sport you are guest in their country and should respect the beliefs and traditions.

The La Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is the epicenter for bullfighting in Spain. Built in 1929, it has a capacity of 25,000 and is located on the east side of the city of Madrid. Bullfighting season is from March to October with fights occurring on Sunday. The best time to view bullfighting in Madrid is during San Isidro, a festival that is from May to June. For 20 straight days there is a bullfight every night that start at 7pm and last for 3 hours. Bullfighting tickets will sell out fast and are priced between 1.50 to 100 euros ($1.80 to $126) depending on the seat location in the arena and if it is located in the sun or shade. Tickets can also be purchased through ticket agencies that are located with the city. La Plaza also has a museum that showcases costumes worn by Matadors and memorabilia. The admission is free and all the information is in Spanish and English.

La Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is accessible by metro to Las Ventas Station or by taxi.

TRAVEL TIPS: Make sure you either take something to sit on or grab a pillow when entering the ring since your seats are nothing more than stone steps. Also bring some water or snacks since you are allowed to bring outside food and drink into the arena. If you plan on leaving your seat you will be unable to return to your seat during the fight and must wait for the fight to end.