Bullfight in Seville, Spain | Everything You Need to Know

I’m always on the hunt to experience different cultures and traditions. My recent trip to Seville, Spain, presented an opportunity to do just that by going to a bullfight.

This guide will help you learn everything you need to know about watching a bullfight at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, an iconic bullring in the heart of Seville.

The History of The Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

The Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza is a living testament to the legacy of bullfighting in Seville. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century, officially inaugurated in 1765.

Built on the site of an old bullring, the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza quickly became one of the most renowned and prestigious bullrings in Spain.

The design of the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza showcases a blend of Moorish and Baroque influences. It reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Every element tells a story, from its grand entrance gates to the rows of stone seats that encircle the arena.

Today, the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza is a vibrant venue for bullfights and other cultural events. It serves as a link between the past and the present, preserving a centuries-old tradition while adapting to the evolving with the modern world.

How to get to the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

If you’re staying in the city center you can easily walk to the bullring. Seville is a compact city; strolling its charming streets and historic neighborhoods is one of the best ways to see the city.

If you’re not in the city center, you can call a Taxi or Rideshare to the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza. You can give the driver the address (P.º de Cristóbal Colón, 12, 41001 Sevilla, Spain) or tell them to go to the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza (“Llévame a la Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza”)

Taxis and ride shares (like Uber and Lyft) are available throughout the city.

How to Buy Tickets to a Bullfight in the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

There are two options to buy your tickets for a bullfight:

1. Buy Tickets Online: Check the official website (www.plazadetorosdelamaestranza.com). Buying your tickets online is convenient and allows you to choose your preferred seating category.
2. Buy Tickets at the Box Office: Visit the bullring’s box office to purchase tickets in person. I recommend you get to the box office early, especially for popular fights, to ensure you can get tickets.

When are Bullfights in Seville, Spain?

In Seville, the bullfighting season is centered around the Seville Fair, also known as Feria de Abril (April Fair), which usually takes place two weeks after Easter. During this time, the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza hosts some of the most important and highly anticipated bullfights of the year.

It’s important to note that bullfights are not held on a daily basis throughout the season. They usually occur on specific dates, often on weekends or during special events.

Check the official website of the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza for the most up-to-date schedule.

What are the Rules of a Bullfight?

The rules of a bullfight in Seville and anywhere else follow a structured format. The main rules of a bullfight and elements of a bullfight are:

Tercios (Stages):

• A bullfight is divided into three stages or tercios, each with its own objectives and rituals.
  • Tercio de Varas: In this first stage, the bull enters the ring, and the picadors, mounted on horseback, use lances to weaken the bull’s neck muscles. This phase tests the bull’s strength and determines its behavior throughout the fight.
  • Tercio de Banderillas: In the second stage, banderilleros, who are on foot, place banderillas (decorated barbed sticks) in the bull’s back. This act tests the agility and bravery of the bullfighter while showcasing their skills and precision.
  • Tercio de Muerte: The final stage is the most crucial. The matador confronts the bull one-on-one, aiming to bring the fight to a definitive end. The matador wields a sword (estoque) to deliver a precise and lethal thrust between the bull’s shoulder blades, aiming for a quick and humane death.

Matador and Supporting Roles:

The main figure in the bullfight is the matador, the skilled bullfighter who engages in the final stage of the fight. They wear distinctive attire, including a traditional suit of lights (traje de luces). Alongside the matador, there are also picadors (mounted lancers) and banderilleros (ground bullfighters) who contribute to the various stages of the fight.

Capote and Muleta

The matador uses two distinct capes during the bullfight. The larger cape, known as the capote, is used in the early stages to test the bull’s behavior and draw it away from the matador. The smaller red cape, called the muleta, is used in the final stage to create the intricate passes and movements that showcase the matador’s skills.

Duration and Outcome

The duration of a bullfight varies, but it typically lasts around 15 to 20 minutes. The goal of the matador is to achieve an efficient and swift kill in the final stage. If the matador succeeds in delivering a clean, fatal blow, it is considered a good performance, and the audience often rewards the matador with applause and cheers.

FAQ on Seeing a Bullfight at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

Can You Buy Food and Drinks at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza?

Yes – The bullring typically has food stalls or concessions where spectators can buy snacks and drinks. This includes beer, soft drinks, chips and sandwiches.

What do you wear to a bullfight at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza?

Dress in smart-casual outfits. Men should wear a nice shirt, dress pants or chinos, and a blazer or sports jacket. Women can wear a sundress, skirt, or tailored pants paired with a cute top.

Remember to wear breathable clothes as it can get hot in Seville. I’d also bring a hat to stay cool, particularly during the spring months.

What are the Seat Options at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza?

Bullrings typically offer two main seating options: Sol (Sun) and Sombra (Shade).

• Sol seats are located on the sunny side of the bullring, often more affordable.
• Sombra seats are on the shaded side, providing relief from direct sunlight.

For the most part the sun seats are cheaper than the shade seats. We opted for the shade seats. .

Insider tip: the seats inside are made of stone, so you should consider snagging a seat cushion. Luckily, you’ve got options! Right outside the stadium, you can buy one for about 15 euros or rent it for a more budget-friendly 2 euros. Believe me, your backside will thank you later!

Can I bring a camera or take photographs during the Bullfight?

Photography is generally allowed during bullfights. Professional-grade equipment may have specific restrictions, so check with the bullring or event organizers for any specific guidelines.

How long does a bullfight typically last?

A bullfight typically lasts around two to three hours, including the various stages and rituals. However, the duration can vary depending on the number of bulls fought and the specific program of the event.

Are there any age restrictions for attending a bullfight?

There are generally no strict age restrictions for attending a bullfight. It’s important to consider the graphic nature of the event and whether it is appropriate for children.

Parents should use their discretion in determining if their children are mature enough to handle the intensity and understand the cultural context of bullfighting. Check with the specific bullring or event organizers for any age-related guidelines to make sure there are no age restrictions.

Disclaimer: It is important to use your own judgment and exercise personal discretion when deciding whether to attend a bullfight. Bullfighting is a controversial activity that evokes differing opinions and emotions. The decision to attend a bullfight should be based on your own beliefs, values, and comfort level with witnessing an event that involves the confrontation and killing of bulls. It is advisable to conduct your own research, consider different viewpoints, and make an informed decision that aligns with your personal ethics and cultural sensitivity.