Coming to Madrid soon? Then take a look at our guide to the Las Ventas bullring, an emblem of the Spanish capital’s traditions!
Located in the Guindelera district of Salamanca, the Las Ventas bullring is also known as the « Plaza de toros Monumental de Las Ventas », earning it the nickname « Monumental de Madrid ». Inaugurated on June 17, 1931, they are the largest bullring in Spain, both in terms of capacity (23,798) and prestige. The arena itself measures 60 metres in diameter, making it one of the largest in the world. A veritable temple to bullfighting, where bullfighters experience both glory and defeat, it is particularly renowned for its San Isidro feria, the biggest in the world, the longest and, above all, the most extensive. A visit to Madrid’s Las Ventas bullring is a great opportunity to learn more about the history of Spanish traditions. After all, the Bullring is not only the center of the bullfighting world, but also a historical, cultural and social site.
So what will you discover in Madrid’s Monumental? From its history to the traditions it embodies, not forgetting opening times, practical information and prices, we reveal everything you need to know to visit the Arena de las Ventas in the best possible conditions.
History of the Las Ventas bullring
Photo credit: Shutterstock / De Anibal Trejo
Originally, Madrid’s many bullfights were held in the Plaza Mayor. Although several bullrings were built over the centuries to meet the growing demands of the population, it wasn’t until 1920 that the decision was taken to create the most monumental of them all: the Las Ventas bullring. Built in 1922 to replace the original bullring on Calle de Alcalá, deemed too small, Las Ventas was not completed until 1929, and it would be another two years before it was inaugurated. By this time, the bullring had acquired the reputation of being the grandiose arena desired by the sovereigns and the public. For its inauguration on June 17, 1931, a charity bullfight was held: eight ganaderos (bull breeders) offered their cattle free of charge, and figuras (star matadors) such as Nicanor Villalta and Vicente Barrera put on a great show without asking for payment!
Shortly afterwards, the monumental new bullring became home to the Feria de Madrid, now known as the Feria de San Isidro, the patron saint of the Spanish capital. Held between May and June, it has become the most prestigious feria in the world! All the big names take part in each edition. The public is demanding and doesn’t ask for trophies without reason. To triumph in Madrid, in the grandiose Las Ventas bullring, many matadors don’t hesitate to take great risks. The result is triumph, glory and public acclaim, or for the unlucky, defeat!
What to see and do in Madrid’s Las Ventas bullring?
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / De Pixachi
The Las Ventas bullring is divided into « arenas » and houses several « patios ». Before you begin your visit, take time to admire the Neo-Mudéjar façade – the dominant style of the Bullring. Based on a project by architect José Espelius, who designed the Plaza and died before the work was completed, the bullring was decorated and completed by Manuel Muñoz Monasterio. In the neo-Mudéjar style, he added azulejos – hand-painted earthenware tiles – to the façade, featuring the coats of arms of all Spanish provinces and other ornamental motifs.
Inside the building, your tour will take you through the various « patios » – the rooms of the Bullring. In particular, you’ll discover a chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Virgin of La Paloma, the patron saints of Mexico and Madrid respectively, as well as the essential infirmary and its two operating theatres, all equipped with the latest technical advances. Your visit will also take you into the « Ruedo »: the « circle » where the bullfights take place. The tour ends with a visit to the Bullfighting Museum (Museo Taurino de Madrid), where you can learn more about the history and tradition of bullfighting.
If you come to Madrid in spring, you can also watch some 24 bullfights in the Las Ventas bullring, with the most prestigious bullfighters in attendance. During the feria de San Isidro, the Madrilenians dress up in their typical costumes and take to the streets to sing, enjoy themselves and dance the scottish, a traditional Madrilenian dance. In addition to the bullfights, many free balls and concerts are organized in the city. Several other férias, bullfights and other events take place throughout the year in the Las Ventas bullring.
How do I get to the Las Ventas bullring in Madrid?
To visit the Las Ventas bullring in Madrid, you’ll need to go to the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, located at the following address: Calle de Alcalá, 237, 28028 Madrid, Spain.
By metro
Public transport makes it easy to visit this historic and traditional monument. The Ventas metro station is at the foot of the Bullring. It is served by metro lines 2 (red) and 5 (green). So you’ll have no trouble getting to the Bullring from downtown or from any other part of Madrid.
By car
You can also get to the Las Ventas bullring by cab or car. There are several pay and secure parking lots in the vicinity. Parking Las Ventas(Calle Londres, 25, 28028 Madrid) is particularly recommended by travelers.
Las Ventas Bullring opening times and prices
SCHEDULES
- October to May: 10am – 6pm
- June to September: 10am – 7pm
Please note: Ticket offices close 45 minutes before closing time.
On bullfighting days, the Arena closes 3 hours before the start of the show. They take place :
- Late March to early October: every Sunday
- May 14 to June 16, 2019 for the Féria de San Isidro (ticket office closes at 3:30pm)
- During the Féria d’Automne in October
Please note: The Arena is also closed on December 25 and January 1. On December 14, they are open until 3:30pm.
RATES
- Adult: €14.90
- Students and over 65: €11.90
- Children aged 5 to 12: €5.90
- Children under 5: free
Please note: Rates are the same for evening tours during the summer. You can also book a private tour with a guide. If you would like to attend a bullfight at the Las Ventas bullring, you can visit the official bullring website and book your tickets.
GOOD TO KNOW
– It’s difficult to visit the Las Ventas bullring on bullfighting days or during férias. It is therefore advisable to book your visit in advance to avoid inconvenience during these lively festive periods.
– The Bullring is rarely visited during the day, but the crowds often increase after 5pm when the heat is less intense.
– Visits to the Las Ventas bullring are accessible to disabled visitors and wheelchair users.