Iradier Arena, Bullring in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.

Iradier Arena is a multi-purpose indoor venue in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, recognizable by its facade of perforated metal panels in silver and gold tones. The roof is made of translucent polycarbonate panels that let in natural light, making the space usable for bullfights, concerts, sports events, and exhibitions.

Bullfights were first held in 1789 in the Plaza de España, built by Justo Antonio de Olaguíbel, to mark the proclamation of King Charles IV. A dedicated bullring opened in 1852, replaced in 1880 by a Pantaleón Iradier design seating 11,000. Restored in 1941, it was demolished in 2006; the current Iradier Arena opened on 4 November 2006.

The name honours four figures from Vitoria-Gasteiz: Pantaleón Iradier, architect of the old bullring and of the Basque Parliament building; Cesáreo Iradier, architect of the Teatro Principal; the composer Sebastián Iradier, author of La Paloma; and the explorer Manuel Iradier. The Feria de la Blanca opens on 5 August for the Virgen Blanca festivities, with morning vaquillas and afternoon corridas; since 2016 no bullfights have been held.

The venue sits in central Vitoria-Gasteiz and is easy to reach on foot from the old town. Since the program changes a lot depending on the season, it is worth checking in advance what is on during your visit.

The circular floor of the arena is 45 meters across and includes corrals and medical treatment rooms that are not visible during concerts or sports events. These spaces sit beneath or behind the main floor configuration and only appear when the venue is set up for bullfighting.