Keys to the City

Facts & Fundamentals

Bullfighting – This long-standing Spanish sport has attracted spectators and attention from around the world for many generations. Impressive beauty and pageantry accompany a fight, and the famed toreadors (or torero) uphold hundreds of years of tradition in their well-rehearsed and graceful movements. Fighting is marked by intricate and artistic movements. Originally, the Spanish nobility bred and maintained the rich-blooded bulls that were chosen to fight in the arena. Fighting begins with the corrida (entrance) followed by the commencement of the fight. Passes by the fighter are called verónoicas. The moment of truth between fighter and bull (the faena) and the final deathblow (the coup de grâce) follow. A spectacle of beauty and pageantry that has long been a symbol of Spain, bullfighting is a must-see for travelers to the country.

Flamenco Dancing – One of the world's most moving and exciting dances, the Flamenco has entertained and touched observers for years. At its heart, Flamenco is a dance of the joys, sorrows and losses of life and has long been a dance of the working classes. Over the years, the dance has evolved and spread throughout Spain and the world. Based on fourth century primitive dances brought to the country during Roman control of the world. Observers of the emotionally charged dance can experience the dancers' joy and pain, despite international language barriers. A trip to Seville demands a visit to one of the many bars and nightspots that promote this ancient and beautiful dance.