Bullfighting Azores

Rope bullfighting in Terceira Azores

Rope bullfighting in Terceira Island is ancestral and the island maintains several active cattle ranches. The activity takes place in several towns across the island and is an integral part of the local culture. During the bullfight, the bull runs through the streets, held by a long rope, as a group of men, known as the shepherds, control the animal’s movements. The bullfighting season in Terceira starts at May 1st to the 15th of October, and visitors can witness this spectacle and immerse themselves in the local culture by attending a bullfight.The rope bullfight is a test of strength, courage, and skill for both the bull and the shepherds, and it draws crowds of locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a fan of bullfighting or simply interested in experiencing a unique cultural event, rope bullfighting in Terceira Island is a must-see.

When Terceira rope bullfighting season starts?

The bullfighting season in Terceira starts at May 1st to the 15th of October, and visitors can witness this spectacle, for free, and immerse themselves in the local culture by attending a bullfight.

How do people know the location of the rope bullfighting?

If you are in the area with three white lines in the ground and a road sign saying ”Tourada à corda” you are in the right place, or if you see a crowd of people running away from something, you better get running, because you are in the right place. Plus, if you hear a firework this means that the bull is on the loose in the streets. When you hear two fireworks this means that the animal is back to his box. You can watch this spectacle however there are some safety recomendations you should follow.

7 Things to be aware during rope bullfighting in Terceira

You should arrive at least 30 minutes before the beginning of the bullfight to find a safe vantage point to watch the rope bullfighting;
Attend the bullfight in a safe place. Here is where it gets interesting, the owners of the palanques, houses, balconies, usually offer a seat to those who ask them to watch the bullfight on their property and don’t be surprised if they offer you a beverage or food, that’s just their normal hospitality. Watching the rope bullfight on the road can be dangerous and if you want to do so it is important to stay away from the bull and stay close to places where you can easily escape from the animal.
In case the bull attacks the place where you are watching the bullfight, it is important to move away to another area where the bull has no access;
If you are assisting the rope bullfighting in the streets, you have to look out for the direction of the running crowd, the bull (off course) and beware of the rope that holds the animal you don’t want to get stucked.
During the interval, if you want to go to the tavern, it is important to pay attention to the exit of the bull, and each interval can last between 10 and 15 minutes, so be quick to return to your seat, remember You snooze, you lose.
It is important to keep your distance from the animal and to not provoke the bull. In case you want to film or take a picture of it, keeping your distance is fundamental, or else you might be risking your own life.
If you have a car, it is important to park it outside the limits of the route of the bullfight. It is forbidden to park any means of transport within the path of the bullfight;