What this tool does
Spain's bullfighting culture is shrinking — attendance has dropped 70% since 2000, and bullfighting is now banned in Catalonia, the Canary Islands, and several smaller regions. Many young Spaniards are indifferent or opposed. The bullrings themselves, however, are architectural masterpieces (Las Ventas in Madrid is a Neo-Mudéjar jewel).
This tool separates the architecture (visit-worthy as a museum) from the activity (a serious ethical decision). It also identifies when there's no corrida scheduled — most cities only have corridas during festival weeks.
The honest assessment
Bullfighting supporters argue it's art, tradition, and economically vital to the dehesa ecosystem. Critics argue it involves animal suffering and is increasingly disconnected from Spanish identity. Both are right in their own framing. The activity is not illegal in most regions but attendance has halved since 2010.
Frequently asked questions
Is bullfighting banned in Spain?
In Catalonia, the Canary Islands, and a few smaller regions. In Madrid, Andalucía, Castilla y León, Navarra, Valencia and the rest — legal but declining. The central government has not banned it.
What's the running of the bulls in Pamplona?
San Fermín festival (July 6–14). Bulls run 875m through the old town to the bullring, where they're fought in the afternoon. The run itself is dangerous (15+ deaths since 1910). Many Spaniards and visitors now consider it cruel and avoid it.
Are bullrings worth visiting as architecture?
Yes — Las Ventas (Madrid), La Maestranza (Sevilla) and the historic bullrings in Ronda and Zaragoza are stunning examples of 19th-century Spanish architecture. The museums inside are well-done.
Limitations
Corrida schedules change yearly. Most bullrings have only 1–3 events per month outside of festivals. The Plaza de Toros Las Ventas has corridas most Sundays from March to October.