Bullring of Cartagena, Spain, Bullring in Cartagena, Spain
The Bullring of Cartagena is a bullring in the city of Cartagena, southern Spain, built in local sandstone with three tiers of seating. The round arena at its center is encircled by stepped rows that rise one above the other around the entire perimeter.
Construction started in 1853, led by architect Gerónimo Ros Giménez, with inmates from the local prison taking part in the work. Regular bullfighting events continued until 1986, after which no more fights were held.
The venue served as a gathering place for different types of performances beyond traditional bullfighting. Local audiences experienced flamenco shows, boxing matches, and comic bullfighting displays that reflected the varied interests of people in Cartagena.
Since regular events ended in 1986, it is worth checking in advance whether tours or occasional activities are available. Access to the inner arena can vary from day to day, so confirming before you go helps avoid a wasted trip.
The bullring was built over the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater, and excavations in 2008 brought parts of that earlier structure to light. The stone used throughout is tabaire, a soft local sandstone that was widely quarried in the Cartagena area.
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