Santamaría Bullring

Santamaria

Santamaría Bullring (Spanish: Plaza de Toros Santamaría) is a prominent bullring located in Bogotá, Colombia. It is one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in the city, known for its bullfighting events and architectural beauty.

History

The Santamaría Bullring was inaugurated on February 8, 1931. It was designed by the architect Santiago de la Mora and built in a Moorish Revival style, which was popular in the early 20th century. The construction of the bullring was part of a broader effort to modernize Bogotá and provide the city with a venue for cultural and sporting events.

Architecture

The bullring's design features a circular arena surrounded by a series of arches and columns, characteristic of Moorish architecture. The seating capacity of the Santamaría Bullring is approximately 14,500 spectators. The structure includes a chapel, a bullpen, and various facilities for the matadors and their teams.

Events

While primarily known for hosting bullfighting events, the Santamaría Bullring has also been used for other purposes, including concerts, political rallies, and cultural festivals. The bullring has been a venue for performances by notable artists and has played a significant role in the cultural life of Bogotá.

Controversy and Modern Use

In recent years, the practice of bullfighting has become increasingly controversial due to concerns about animal rights. In 2012, the Mayor of Bogotá, Gustavo Petro, suspended bullfighting events at the Santamaría Bullring. However, in 2017, the Constitutional Court of Colombia ruled that bullfighting could resume, citing cultural heritage reasons.

Location

The Santamaría Bullring is situated in the La Macarena neighborhood of Bogotá, near other notable landmarks such as the National Museum of Colombia and the Independence Park.

See also

• Bullfighting
• Bogotá
• Moorish Revival architecture
• Cultural heritage