Plaza de Toros Vieja, 18th century bullring in Tarazona, Spain.
Plaza de Toros Vieja is an octagonal structure with 32 houses surrounding a central courtyard where bullfighting took place until 1870. The residential buildings form the outer perimeter, containing shops and homes on multiple levels that still serve their original purpose today.
Construction took place between 1790 and 1792 on an ancient meadow, with the opening happening on October 5th during Saint Atilano's festivities. The space then hosted bullfighting events for about 80 years before such activities ceased.
The three-story homes display large interior arches supported by octagonal pillars, reflecting how locals built their houses and businesses together. These design choices shaped the way families and merchants lived side by side in the same structure.
The site is accessible for exploration during the day, and visitors can freely walk through courtyards, staircases, and view windows overlooking the central space. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the grounds involve navigating multiple levels and connecting passages within the complex.
This complex merges bullfighting space with residential apartments and shops, differing from typical Spanish arenas built only for combat sport. The mixed-use layout allowed residents to witness events from their homes while maintaining everyday family and business life.
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