Although bullfighting is now illegal in Catalonia, La Monumental Bullring has retained much of its original character. The small Museu Taurí (Bullfighting Museum) recounts the history of bullfighting in Catalonia with displays of branding irons, classic posters, and resplendent sequined matador outfits. One weekend each month, the bullring hosts a music and street food festival, complete with food trucks, local vendors, and activities for kids. Many bike tours of Barcelona pedal past the bullring.
La Monumental is a must-see for architecture buffs and anyone interested in the history of Spanish bullfighting.
Don’t forget to bring sun protection, especially if you’re attending an event on the bullring floor.
Be sure to stop and appreciate the ornate façade of the building, even if the museum is closed.
La Monumental is located on Gran Via, not far from La Sagrada Familia cathedral in the Eixample neighborhood. To reach the bullring on public transportation, take the Barcelona metro to Monumental Station (Line 2).
The museum is open daily year-round, but to really experience the grandeur of the bullring, plan to visit during an event or concert that lets you get out on the floor with the grandstands rising up around you.
La Monumental was the city’s main bullfighting venue, but it wasn’t the only one. The second, the Plaça Espanya bullring, was repurposed as a modern shopping mall after bullfighting fell out of favor in Catalonia. Today, Las Arenas mall is home to international brand shops, restaurants, and a rooftop observation deck with a stellar view of Montjüic and its colorful Magic Fountain.
