Visit one of Spain’s oldest and most-revered bullrings, which has a museum of bullfighting memorabilia and hosts a bullfight during a week-long festival.
Glimpse the contentious world of bullfighting at Plaza de Toros (officially Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Cabellería de Ronda). Appreciate the striking architecture of the arena, walk in the footsteps of celebrated matadors and browse exhibits of historic bullfighting artifacts. Attend a bullfight during Ronda’s colorful Feria Goyesca in September.
Built in the late 1700s, during the prime of pioneering matador Pedro Romero, Plaza de Toros is one of Spain’s earliest bullrings. Enter the circular stadium, with two tiers of seating, each fronted by an arcade supported by Tuscan-style columns. It is home to the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda, an acclaimed Spanish order of horsemanship.
Stand in the center of the ring, among the world’s largest, and imagine thousands of fans cheering on the fighters. Spot sections of the arena dedicated to the celebrated Romero and Ordoñez bullfighting families. See the horse stables, paddock and bullpens. Peek inside the chapel, where fighters pray before entering the ring.
Within the arena complex is the Ronda Bullring Museum. Admire a copy of Francisco de Goya’s La Tauromaquia (Bullfighting) in addition to work by artists such as Eduardo Arroyo and Edward Orme. Find a display of lavish horse carriage harnesses and almost 300 antique firearms. Learn about the aristocracy of the Real Maestranza equestrian school.
Visit in early September for the chance to experience live bullfights. They are part of the annual Feria Goyesca de Pedro Romero, which also includes horse-drawn carriage and costumed parades through Ronda’s streets. The festival began in 1954 to mark the bicentennial anniversary of the birth of Pedro Romero, one of the world’s most famous bullfighters.
The arena is located in Ronda’s El Mercadillo district and a short walk from Puente Nuevo. If you drive, use the nearby public parking lot at Plaza del Socorro.
Plaza de Toros is open daily, except on event days, and has an admission fee. Pick up a map and brochure of the attraction, available in English. Pay the additional fee for an audio guide for the bullring and museum in English and other languages.
