‘Running of the Bulls’, a part of the bigger San Fermin Festival, is held annually from 6th to 14th July in Spain. This festival in Pamplona is a congregation of a huge number of people enthusiastically waiting to run in front of raging bulls, displaying their bravado!!
Spain’s ‘Running of the Bulls’ by Ian Mackenzie / CC BY
The 825 m race starts exactly at 8 o’clock from Santo Domingo in the morning. The charge of the bulls culminates in a bull ring not very far from the corral from where it all starts. This festival is highly popular with Spaniards as well as tourists who visit the city during this time of the year.
Historical Relevance
‘Running of the Bulls’ is one of the major festivals that complete the San Fermin festivities. ‘Encerrio’, as the race is popularly known as, started in the mid 17th century as an activity of driving the bulls from outside of the city to the ring in the market place. Over the period of time, this act received popular acceptance as a sport. The race lasts less than five minutes.
Reserve a Space!
The perfect space to enjoy the sight of the bulls thunderously rushing through the cobblestone streets of Pamplona is the balconies of the apartments all across the streets. The viewing areas are very few in numbers and are mostly occupied hours before the race. Arrive early in the morning and claim a decent spot available, preferably somewhere behind the barricades.
Reaching Pamplona and Staying There
The easiest access to this city is through domestic flights from either Madrid or Barcelona. Train and bus services are also quite a hit among tourist and connect most major cities.
The event is such a hit that the hotels and other accommodation options are sold out well in advance. It is essential that your room bookings are made well in advance. Another alternative is to book an accommodation in places like Estella and Vitoria which are at a couple of hours drive from Pamplona.
Other attractions in Pamplona
Apart from the festivities that mark the San Fermin Festival, you can visit the beautiful old town of Pamplona – Casco Viejo. The medieval architecture, all across the town, is still preserved and is sure to delight travellers. The Castle Square, the City Hall, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria are some of the other popular attractions in and around Pamplona.
