The recent realization of a complete bullfighting ban in Catalonia's capital of Barcelona marks the end of a centuries-long tradition; cruel though it may have been, the avid fans will have to find another activity to fill the hours of their day.
The final event held in Barcelona unravelled before a crowd of nearly 20,000, some of whom were unimpressed by the recent legislation, while others cheered the end of an archaic, unnecessary tradition. Many still see the bullfighting ban as an attack on the age-old ways of both Spain and Catalonia, but the government was forced into action after a petition of 180,000 names was collected ad presented before parliament. The matador stadiums will ultimately have to be outfitted for other purposes -- ideally, they'll become football stadiums or convention halls.
And while this may ban may signal the conclusion of a long, proud tradition, bullfighting persists in other parts of Spain, France, Mexico and throughout South America.
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