Spanish architect Joaquín Rucoba built Málaga’s neo-Mudéjar bullring in 1874. Entrepreneur and former president of Málaga Football Club, Fernando Puche Dona, owns it today. The arcaded stadium has capacity for 14,000 spectators, with stables and training grounds for the horses, corrals for the bulls, and a mini-hospital.
The Basics
Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta continues to host bullfights from April to September, with the biggest events taking place during Easter Week (Semana Santa) and the annual Bullfighting Festival (Feria Taurina) in the summer. During the rest of the year, visitors can tour the ring and the small Museo Taurino Antonio Ordonez, dedicated to one of Spain’s best-loved matadors. The collection within showcases traditional bullfighting costumes and red capes.
Many cycling tours of Málaga stop outside the bullring for a quick photo op.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Plaza de Toros is a must-visit for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those interested in the heritage of Spanish bullfighting.
- Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared to climb steps, if you plan to explore the spectator stands.
- For views of the bullring from above, climb or take the shuttle up to Gibfralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibfralfaro).
- The bullring is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The bullring is located in the La Malagueta neighborhood of Málaga near Málaga Park (Parque de Málaga). Several public buses stop just outside the ring at Paseo de Reding (Plaza de Toros) station.
When to Get There
If you’re interested in seeing a live bullfight, you’ll have to plan your visit for Easter Week or the Bullfighting Festival in July and August. The museum is open Monday to Friday morning and early afternoon.
Seeing Red
The idea that matador capes are red to attract the attention of the bull is a common misconception. In reality, bulls are colorblind to red and are instead drawn to the movement of the cape, no matter what color it happens to be.
