My Trip to a Bullfight

The Plaza de Toros in San Lucar de Barrameda


Last night we went to the Plaza de Toros in San Lucar de Barrameda for a bullfight. We took the motorbike so we wouldn´t have to find parking, and we were smart for it. The bullring was smaller than I thought it would be so there really wasn´t a bad seat, if you were sitting in the shade. If not then you would be squinting and fanning yourself for most of the time. Luckily for us, we were in the shade.

There were three matadors and six bulls and they rotated through the evening. When the bull first comes out, he is full of energy and anger. After a minute or two though two guys on armored (and blindfolded) horses with spears come and stab the bull to make it bleed and to get dizzy. After that the bull doesnt really stand a chance. Then the matador or another guy sticks six smaller spears in the back of the bull two at a time. The matador plays to the crowd, often taunting the bull or holding the capote from his knees at this point. A few minutes later when the bull is practically walking dead the matador grabs a slightly curved sword and sticks it in the back of the bull from straight on. Surprisingly the bull still has some fight left in him, but eventually he falls.


The matadors and their assistants warming up

Afterward the three judges award the matador an ear, two ears, or two ears and a tail for his performance, based on the applause from the crowd. The matador walks around the ring in appreciation and people throw things to him which he touches or kisses and throws back.

Its all pretty gruesome and cruel, but interesting at the same time. The experience was fun and I can see why people enjoy it so much.


Morante de la Puebla taunting a toro!