I think that the title is much more impressive than Bull Ring.

The Plaza de Toros belongs to a so called corporation which has its origins back in the 13th century but was set up pin current form in 1670. Has 250 members. Originally it was to keep knights trained. Not originally with bulls but in the city squares with dangling wooden heads they had to practice hitting on horseback with lances. Then the bull fighting bit developed.

Interesting tour. Interesting facts.

Bulls only fight once. A fight lasts 20 – 25 minutes. If the bull is still alive at the end of this time thats it the fight ends. But the bull gets taken out and then is killed out the back. Meat used for eating. Unless he has been an exceptionally brave bull. Then he goes back to the farm to procreate further generations of particularly brave bulls.

Bull fighter gets an ear for winning. He gets two ears if he’s been particularly good. And on very rares occasions he’s been son outstanding he gets two ears, the tail and carried out through the gate under the royal box.

They have a full equipped little hospital with doctors on duty to operate on the spot if needed.

Bulls are colour blind. The three capes used by the matadors could be any colour – no diff to the bull its the movement that counts.

Yesterday we saw the cigarette factory which provided a key setting for Bizet’s Carmen. Of course the opera was based on Prosper Merimee’s novella. I read it in 7th form French. Not sure that I read much else in French that year. perhaps that explains by 18% in scholarship French?

Season runs from Good Friday to October 12. Think I would go if I was in town then.