Las Ventas
Madrid, Comunidad de
Las Ventas, located in Madrid's Salamanca district, is the largest bullfighting arena in Spain and the third largest worldwide with a seating capacity of 23,798. Designed by architect José Espeliú in the distinctive Neo-Mudéjar style, the arena features intricate ceramic decorations and ten seating sections called "tendidos." Opened in 1931, it has become a central cultural landmark for bullfighting, hosting events from March to October, with daily bullfights during the San Isidro Festival. Beyond bullfighting, Las Ventas hosts concerts, sporting events like tennis, and cultural tours including its bullfighting museum. Its architectural highlights include the Royal Box with Mudéjar design, multiple gates including the famous "Puerta Grande" symbolizing triumph, and facilities such as a chapel and infirmary. The arena also has a somber history, having been used as a Francoist concentration camp during the Spanish Civil War. Today, Las Ventas remains a vibrant symbol of Spanish tradition and culture, attracting visitors eager to experience its rich heritage and lively events.
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Tip: Visit Las Ventas during the bullfighting season from March to October, especially during the San Isidro Festival in May when events occur daily. Purchase tickets in advance for popular events to secure seating, and consider guided tours with multilingual audioguides to fully appreciate the arena's history and architecture. Seats in the shade are pricier but offer more comfort during sunny days. Check the official website for updated event schedules and opening hours.
Interesting facts
- •Las Ventas is the second largest bullring still in operation worldwide after Plaza México, following the ban of bullfighting there.
- •The arena's architecture is Neo-Mudéjar, featuring ceramic representations of Spanish provincial coats of arms.
- •The famous "Puerta Grande" gate is the ultimate prize for bullfighters, symbolizing a victorious exit from the arena.
- •Las Ventas has hosted legendary concerts by artists such as The Beatles, Diana Ross, Depeche Mode, AC/DC, Radiohead, Kylie Minogue, and Coldplay.
- •In 2008, the bullring was temporarily converted into a clay tennis court for a Davis Cup semifinal featuring Rafael Nadal.
- •The arena includes a chapel and an infirmary with operating rooms to support events and emergencies.
History
The idea for Las Ventas arose between 1913 and 1920 due to the growing demand for a larger bullring in Madrid, replacing the smaller Fuente del Berro arena.
Architect José Espeliú began the project, and the Jardón family donated the land under the condition they manage the arena for fifty years.
Construction started with the first stone laid in 1922 and was completed by 1929, with the official inauguration in 1931.
Bullfighting was suspended during the Spanish Civil War, during which the arena was repurposed as a Francoist concentration camp, before resuming in 1939.
Over time, Las Ventas has evolved into a multifunctional venue hosting cultural events, concerts, and sports.
Place Guide
The Arena (Ring)1931
A 60-meter diameter circular space where bullfights take place, surrounded by ten 'tendidos' or seating sections. The arena is the heart of Las Ventas and the stage for all bullfighting events.
Royal Box1931
An architecturally distinguished box featuring Mudéjar style, a complete bathroom, and a lift, reserved for dignitaries and special guests during events.
Puerta Grande (Big Gate)1931
The prestigious exit gate located between tendidos 7 and 8, through which victorious bullfighters exit the arena, especially during the San Isidro Festival.
The Gates and Corrals1931
Las Ventas has five main gates plus three 'toriles' gates for bull entry. The 'cuadrillas' gate provides access to the horse yard and is the starting point for the bullfighting procession.
Bullfighting Museum
A cultural space within Las Ventas offering exhibits on bullfighting history, artifacts, and educational materials, accessible via guided tours with multilingual audioguides.
Contact
Phone: 913 56 22 00
