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June 2005 |
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| Street bullfights are one thing, but the place where they get really serious is the arena! We went to the annual festival of Sanjoaninas in Angra, where there is a lot of stuff going on, including an arena bullfight. | ||
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The Portuguese like to start things late. The festival doesn't really get going until about midnight. It all takes place at the harbor in Angra do Heroismo. | |
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There are lights everywhere, even on this 300 year old church in the center of town. |
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The harbor, right across from the church. These sailboats are from all over the world. | |
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The next day, it's time for the arena bullfight! These guys come out first. I think they're like matadors-in-training or something like that, because they team up against the bull. |
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It takes a real man to look this cool with a pink cape and pink socks. | |
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After the guys in pink are done getting the bull really pissed off, the matador comes out. This guy is the epitome of charisma and showmanship, blowing kisses and waving to the crowd. |
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One of the first things the matador does is stick some spears in the bull's back, right between the shoulders. I don't know how bad this hurts the bull, but he sure does get mad afterwards! | |
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There are six different bulls, and several matadors compete to see who can do the most daring stunts. |
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Click on this picture and look at this guy's left leg. That bull has a mean left hook! | |
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When it's all over, the matador walks around the stadium and gets his judgment from the crowd. The audience cheers and throws flowers depending on how much they liked his performance. |
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