Bull running
Scot Free III
Frank & Anne
Sun 1 Sep 2024 17:46
Decided to enjoy/experience a local Terceira tradition. The island is renowned for tourada à corda- bullrunning on a rope. Bulls are not killed and the “only blood spilt is that of overconfident humans! “The bull is at the end of a long rope, held by a number of “shepherds” to control it.
These events take place every day between 1st May and 15th October. Discovered later that there are only 11 bull owners on Terceira. The bulls are wild cattle and not the domesticated ones reared for dairy and beef and are kept in the higher part of the island.
Took a taxi to Santa Barbera about 20 mins away, a huge number of cars and street food vans greeted us. We sought refuge high up on a stage overlooking the crates with the bulls, very glad we did. Doorways were boarded up, as were some street furniture.
It is an event for the locals, each house provides food and drink, before, during and after the running.
Young men with umbrellas and cloaks try to outrun the bulls.
Strict rules are adhered to. Only 30 mins max for each bull. Each one must have a rest period of at least 7 days and regular vet examinations. The bull have a very great significance to the population. It is said the bulls were used to overcome the Spanish attack in 1581 and have since been revered.
The Monument to the Bull in Angra honours the bull fight culture of the island.
Watched two bulls from the safety of the stage, then went off to try the local speciality- bifana, a pork sandwich. Very dry! F climbed up to watch the next bull and witnessed a spectator being tossed into the air. The ambulance, on standby, was needed. Have since heard he is in hospital with a few broken bones, but making a recovery.