Your travel to Spain won't be complete without seeing a bull fight. Bullfighting is not only part of Spanish attractions but also of their culture. As early as 711 A.D., the Spanish people have been watching the bull fight with great enthusiasm.
Bullfighting as Spanish tourism attraction
Bullfighting is one of them main attractions here in Spain. The first bull fight happened sometime in 711 A.D., when celebrating King Alfonso VIII's crowning. Bullfight used to be a sport exclusive to aristocrats. The old version includes horseback riding until King Felipe V banned the aristocrats from doing the sport. He thought of it as setting a bad example. The commoners then adopted the sport but without the horses. The sport became more dangerous as they would be on foot as the angry bull charges. Nonetheless, the sport only became more exciting.
How bull fights happen
During bull fights, thousands of people are gathered in a bull ring, watching closely how the matadero (bullfighter) will challenge the bull to a duel. But before that. an assistant would first wave a colorful cape (often in bright yellow and magenta), prompting the bull to charge. From there, the matadero can see the mood and certain qualities of the bull before he takes charge.
Bull fighting is said to be a "dance with death," filled with artistry. The matador displays courage as he challenges the bull with the swinging of crimson cloth back and forth. On the other hand the matador holds a sword. Every move is crucial as this can lead to the death of the matador when the bull charges with its horn. The demonstration is done to prove superiority until the bull is killed using the sword. The matador is awarded depending on his displayed skills.
Bullfighting is common during Spanish fiestas. It is considered a form of art that reflects the country's culture and history. Though there have been accidents in the past and some people protested against it, the locals never lost enthusiasm into one of their favorite sports. Bullfighting is so popular that bullfighters are said to earn as much as professional soccer players.
