The Valencia bullring, a neo-classical masterpiece

The Valencia bullring, built in neo-classical style, was designed by the architect Sebastián Monleón Estellés. They were built between 1850 and 1860 on the site of an unfinished square. Their main purpose was to host bullfights. In fact, the first fixed bullring made of wood was destroyed by the town's inhabitants to prevent Napoleon from using it as a base for a siege (in 1808, Napoleon actually threatened to take the town). But in the 19th century, bullfighting became increasingly popular, and the streets of Valenciennes struggled to contain the compact crowds. To make the events safer, new arenas had to be built.

Later, in 1983, the site was declared a National Monument and a Site of Cultural Interest in 1988. These two statutes provide legal protection for the bullring against possible destruction, and make it possible to finance renovations and maintenance. It is also a means of officially recognising the site as an integral part of Valencian culture and tradition.

To understand the tradition of bullfighting, we recommend that you opt for a guided tour. This will give you valuable information on the history and development of this age-old tradition.

You will learn that the first written mention of these shows dates back to the 14th century, but that the practice of bullfighting is probably even older. At that time, bullfights were usually improvised in the Plaza del Mercado or other public squares. Wooden structures that could be dismantled gradually came into being to frame the bullfights: they were set up in the middle of the square and then removed once the event was over.

⏰ Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Last entry to the bullring: 6.15 p.m. In winter: 5.30pm. Last admission to the museum: 6.30pm.

Bullfighting is a tradition that dates back several centuries in Spain. It consists of a bullfighting spectacle in which a bull is pitted against a bullfighter, matador or team of bullfighters. The aim of the bullfight is to demonstrate the mastery and skill of the bullfighters against the bull, as well as to entertain the public.

Bullfighting is a controversial subject in Spain and around the world, as many animal rights activists consider the killing of bulls to be cruel and unnecessary. Critics of bullfighting are also opposed to the exploitation of bulls for human entertainment. Supporters of bullfighting, on the other hand, consider it to be an integral part of Spanish culture, and that the bulls are bred specifically for this purpose.

Whatever the view, bullfighting remains a deeply rooted tradition in Spanish culture and attracts large numbers of spectators to the Valencia bullring. It continues to provoke passionate debate and divide public opinion, while remaining an important economic activity for the Spanish tourist industry.