Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Where did modern Spanish bullfighting develop?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
bullfighting
Spanish matador El Juli engaging a bull, June 6, 2010, Barcelona.
Modern Spanish bullfighting, characterized by the foot-based corrida, developed in Spain as the aristocracy gradually abandoned the traditional mounted spectacle during the 18th century.12
As the nobility withdrew, their former foot assistants—who had previously maneuvered bulls with capes—took center stage, transforming the practice into a professional, foot-based art form. This evolution was driven by two primary "schools" of bullfighting that emerged in the 18th century:2
- The Ronda School: Associated with Pedro Romero of Ronda, this style is noted for a simpler, more sober approach to the spectacle.1
- The Sevilla School: Associated with Joaquín Rodríguez Costillares, this style is characterized by a more flamboyant approach.1
Costillares is often credited as the father of modern bullfighting, having established many of its commercialized traditions, including the veronica cape pass and the volapié method of killing the bull.1