What bull

[April 16, Ronda]

Ronda is the home of modern bull-fighting, a creation of Francisco Romero in the early 1700's. The Ronda style is classic, pure, severe -- not like the flamboyant show-boats of Sevilla.

 

The bull ring was built in 1784 and preserves the sense of dignified tradition.

But for non-aficionados, the back-stage reality of the sport brings a sadness. Today the facilities are rarely used, and for that we are grateful. It is one of the many traditions of Spain that (we think) bring the modern Spanish both pride and, increasingly, a little embarrassment.