"Trajes de Luces"
Real Maestranza Bullring and Museum - Seville, Spain
Bullfighting in Spain began as a way for knights to gain horsemanship skills, so that they would be prepared to fight on behalf of King Ferdinand III. These training exercises began in the 13th century and the accompanying battles eventually resulted in Catholic monarchs gaining control of Spain.1
Construction on the Real Maestranza Bullring started in 1761 and took 120 years to complete.
In 1989, the Real Maestranza Bullring added a museum, which houses the largest collection of artwork inspired by bullfighting.
Traje de Luces
The clothing a matador wears is made of silk and gold threads. It is called a “traje de luces” or suit of lights. Curro Romero, the matador who wore the mustard yellow suit below, was one of the most famous bullfighters at the Real Maestranza Bullring in Seville, Spain. He was carried out through the Prince’s Gate, below the king’s box in the arena, on four occasions for his superb work in the ring.
When a matador is ready for the fight, he has the chance to visit the chapel just outside the arena to pray. On its wall are three prayers by Portuguese poets.
The matador walks through the gate below to the arena, which holds 12,000 people.
I have never seen a bullfight and I would not want to see one; however, I loved seeing the Real Maestranza Bullring and Museum in Seville. The paintings, posters and sculptures in the museum and around the bullring were remarkable. The matador’s clothing was colorful and luxurious. I’m glad my family had the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the Spanish culture through our visit to Seville.
Have you been to Seville? What was your experience in this city? I would love to know.
Vegetarian Recipe Worth Trying
Vegan Biscuits - Minimalist Baker
I love these vegan biscuits, particularly when they are hot out of the oven. We have made these biscuits many times. Try this recipe out for breakfast this weekend.
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Audio tour notes from the Real Maestranza Bullring and Museum tour
Resources
Real Maestranza de Cabllería de Sevilla - Contemporary Posters
Audio tour notes from the Real Maestranza Bullring and Museum tour