Plaza de los Toros, Seville

The Plaza de toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballeria de Seville is the site of one of the most well known bullfighting festivals in the world. With its 12 000 capacity bullring it is a part of the Real Maestranze de Caballeria de Seville, a noble guild established for traditional cavalry training.

Construction began in 1749 of a circular ring on Baratillo Hill to replace the rectangular bullring that was previously located there. In 1761, the construction began to incorporate ochavas (each ochava being equivalent to four arches). The inner facade of the plaza (called the Palco del Príncipe or Prince's Box) was completed in 1765. This 'box' consists of two parts: the access gate through which the successful bullfighters exit, and the theater box itself, which is reserved for the exclusive use of the Spanish Royal Family. In 1786 bullfighting celebrations were prohibited and construction was ceased with only one third of the plaza completed at that time. The plaza was eventually completed in 1881 and is still in use today.

Even though we have walked though the bull ring at Ronda, we decided this was worth going through it - and thankfully it was. There was a museum displaying many costumes the matadors have worn, the decorated spears and lots of artwork and sculptures. Even though I don’t agree with bull fighting it was interesting seeing it all and understanding the history. And my inner artist just loved the colours and pageantry of it all.

We walked around the ring, the stables and chapel, following the steps the matadors would take. Although I do struggle supporting the industry by visiting the bullring, we really enjoyed this experience and photographing this stunning site added to our enjoyment.Read more