Corrida de toros 🐃

With today's post we will return to Spanish culture again. So what exactly is Corrida de toros? This is a traditional bull fight and for sure most people associate Spain with this spectacle. 

It is difficult to point out who actually started the custom of public fighting people with bulls. It is known, however, that this is one of the oldest shows in the world that takes place to this day. It is said that it has its roots in ancient times, and even goes back to the Bronze Age. 

The bullfighting season lasts in Spain from March to October. Some regions deviate from this tradition. An example is Catalonia where according to a resolution of the autonomous parliament, public bullfighting is prohibited. However, the fate of the "corrida" in the rest of Spain (especially in Andalusia and the center of the country) seems not to be at risk. Currently, it is practiced in a similar form in many Latin American countries, Portugal and southern France.

Bullring arenas in Spain are called Plaza de Toros. These are usually closed objects with an oval shape with an exposed roof, the oldest ones are dominated by neomudéjar architecture. 

Toreador (Spanish torero) is a profession that has enjoyed great respect for centuries in Spanish society. They are characters almost adored by the communities of the villages, cities and towns they come from. The most famous are becoming great celebrities. The career of many toreros ended prematurely as a result of wounds suffered in battles in the "corrida". 

However, disputes about this show have been going on for several years. Her opponents claim that she boils down to torturing an animal that bled to the delight of the crowd. In contrast, supporters, including the former King of Spain Juan Carlos, emphasize that the "corrida" is a unique art combining choreography, costume and music in a coherent whole. Corrida lovers see in it not so much pain and suffering, but above all beauty. 

Personally, I'm not against bullfights. If this is part of the Spanish culture we have to respect it. If I ever had the opportunity, I'd love to see this show.