Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla

Interesting facts

1. 1

   Construction of the bullring spanned over 120 years, finally completing in 1881.

2. 2

   The Prince's Gate (Puerta del Príncipe) is traditionally opened only for matadors who have achieved an exceptional performance.

3. 3

   The arena is oval-shaped because the original site was constrained by the Guadalquivir River and surrounding city walls.

4. 4

   Gustave Eiffel provided technical advice on the structure's metal components during renovations in the late 19th century.

5. 5

   The ring's diameter measures 52 meters.

6. 6

   The attached museum displays a collection of Goya’s bullfighting prints.

7. 7

   The chapel within the complex is dedicated to the Virgen de la Caridad.

Overview

The Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla is considered the oldest bullring in Spain, with construction beginning in 1761. Its distinctive late-Baroque architecture features a poly-lobed facade and an iconic white-and-ochre exterior. The structure is built primarily from stone and brick, utilizing a unique oval design rather than a traditional perfect circle to accommodate the city's urban layout. It serves as the home of the Maestranza, a noble brotherhood founded in 1670. The site encompasses the ring, a museum of bullfighting history, and a chapel where matadors pray before entering the arena. The arena capacity is approximately 12,000 spectators. It remains an active venue, hosting high-profile corridas during the annual Feria de Abril. The onsite museum houses a significant collection of paintings, costumes, and historical memorabilia related to tauromachy.

Insider tips

• Book a guided tour to access areas of the arena not visible from standard gallery seats.

• Check the museum entrance times as they may differ from the arena access hours.

• Visit during the morning to avoid the intense Seville afternoon heat inside the open-air seating area.