Fuengirola Bullring

Bullring in Fuengirola, Spain

Location of Fuengirola Bullring in Spain

Official namePlaza de Toros de FuengirolaTypeNon-movableCriteriaMonument

Fuengirola Bullring (Plaza de Toros de Fuengirola (Spanish)) is a 3rd category^[1] bullring located in Fuengirola, a coastal town in the province of Málaga, part of the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain. The plaza is known for hosting traditional bullfights, as well as other cultural and entertainment events, such as concerts, theatrical performances, and exhibitions. It serves as an important venue for cultural exchange and a symbol of Spanish tradition and history.

History

It was inaugurated on 8 July 1962 when César Girón, Manuel Segura and José Martínez "Limeño" were fighting.^[2] The design of the plaza was influenced by the traditional architectural style of Spanish bullrings, which can be traced back to the Roman amphitheaters. Over the years, it has played a significant role in promoting the town's tourism industry and cultural heritage. The building of 6,904 m2 is on a plot of 5,234 m2^[3]

Capacity and Structure

Fuengirola Bullring has a seating capacity of approximately 4,029 spectators,^[4] with a mix of shaded and sunlit areas, providing visitors with various seating options. The arena's round shape, which measures 50 meters in diameter, allows for optimal viewing from all angles.

The structure of the bullring consists of two main parts: the arena, where the events take place, and the stands, which are divided into several sections or "tendidos." The tendidos are further divided into "sol" (sunlit) and "sombra" (shaded) areas, with ticket prices varying accordingly.

Ownership

The Fuengirola bullring was put up for sale for 4.5 million euros. It was announced on 10 February 2023 that the bullring owner Taurina Victoria SL^[5] sold the bullring to a Swedish investment group^[6]

Bullfighting

Bullfighting has been an integral part of Spanish culture for centuries, and Fuengirola Bullring has hosted numerous bullfights since its inauguration. Although the tradition has faced criticism and calls for a ban due to concerns about animal welfare, bullfighting remains a popular event in the region^[7]

Other Events

In addition to bullfights, Fuengirola Bullring hosts a variety of other events throughout the year. Concerts by national and international artists, theater performances, and exhibitions have all taken place within the arena, showcasing the versatility of the venue.

The Bullring is also used as a venue for local festivals and celebrations, such as the annual Feria del Rosario,^[8] held in October, which features a mix of traditional and modern events, including flamenco performances, live music, and horse shows.

Accessibility and Surroundings

Fuengirola Bullring is easily accessible by public transportation by and nearby Fuengirola bus and train stations. Parking is also available for those arriving by car.

In the vicinity of the plaza, visitors can explore the historic town center of Fuengirola, with its narrow streets, traditional Andalusian architecture, and various dining and shopping options

References

^ Crivell, Carlos (11 April 2007). "Clasificación de las plazas de toros por categorías". sevillatoro.es (in Spanish). Retrieved 14 May 2023.
^ "Plaza de toros de Fuengirola". www.visitacostadelsol.com (in Spanish). 5 June 2023. Retrieved 6 May 2023.
^ Herrera, Daniel (10 February 2023). "Un grupo inversor sueco adquiere la plaza de toros de Fuengirola". Málaga Taurina | Noticias y actualidad taurina en la provincia de Málaga (in Spanish). Retrieved 6 May 2023.
^ "Bullring of Fuengirola. Málaga". www.servitoro.com. Retrieved 6 May 2023.
^ "Fuengirola reinaugura su plaza con tres espectáculos taurinos". Diario Sur (in European Spanish). 27 September 2012. Retrieved 6 May 2023.
^ Rioboo, Pablo López (13 February 2023). "Un grupo inversor sueco compra la plaza de toros de Fuengirola". Cultoro.es (in Spanish). Retrieved 6 May 2023.
^ Wheeler, Duncan (21 January 2022). "Coronavirus and Culture Wars: Spain's Bullfighting Industry Faces a Crunch Point in 2022". (barcelona-metropolitan.com). Retrieved 6 May 2023.
^ "Feria del Rosario Fair in Fuengirola". www.visitcostadelsol.com. 14 May 2023. Retrieved 14 May 2023.