If you’re planning a getaway to the Caliphal city, the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba should definitely be on your itinerary. This iconic venue is not only a benchmark in the world of bullfighting but also a place full of history, culture, and major events held throughout the year.
Whether you’re interested in bullfighting tradition or simply want to explore a place filled with Cordoban character, this article will show you everything you need to plan your visit. If you’re arriving by plane, we recommend hiring a 7-9 seater car at Málaga Airport to comfortably travel with your group and explore Córdoba and its surroundings freely.
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History of the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba
Before diving into current events or how to plan your visit to the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba, it’s worth learning about the origins and evolution of one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks.
From the Old Plaza to Los Califas
The first bullring was built in 1846 in the Campo de la Merced. It was a circular structure made of traditional materials and could accommodate about 10,000 people. For over a century, it was the heart of Cordoban bullfighting, but its deterioration and the growing popularity of the sport led to its demolition.
The current bullring was inaugurated on May 9, 1965, with a historic lineup that marked the city’s bullfighting revival: Manuel Benítez “El Cordobés”, Manuel Cano “El Pireo”, and José María Montilla.
The nickname of the bullring, “Los Califas,” pays tribute to the five great figures who shaped the history of bullfighting in Córdoba—a legacy also felt when strolling through other historic corners like the Jewish Quarter of Córdoba, where tradition and culture intertwine in every cobbled alley.
The most legendary figures of Cordoban bullfighting are: Rafael Molina “Lagartijo” (1841–1900), Rafael Guerra “Guerrita” (1862–1941), Rafael González “Machaquito” (1880–1955), Manuel Rodríguez “Manolete” (1917–1947), Manuel Benítez “El Cordobés” (1936).
In the surrounding area, you can find statues and commemorative plaques dedicated to these legends—don’t forget to look for them!
Architecture and Curiosities of the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba
The Córdoba bullring is a perfect example of how a traditional venue can adapt to modern times. It combines tradition and innovation through a functional design with references to Andalusian art, built entirely in reinforced concrete, a pioneering material for its time.
Its capacity exceeds 14,000 spectators, strategically distributed to offer good visibility from all angles, making it one of the largest in Andalusia.
This figure may vary slightly depending on the event type. For example:
- For bullfights, the arena is used, so the capacity is almost at full.
- For concerts, part of the arena becomes a stage or standing area, and capacity adjusts between 10,000 and 12,000 attendees depending on setup.
Seating is arranged in numbered stands, differentiated by height and orientation:
- Lower stands: closer to the arena.
- Upper stands: offer a more panoramic view.
- Sun and shade zones: key when choosing seats depending on the time of the event and the season.
It also features a chapel, fully equipped infirmary, pens, stables, and a grand gate through which bullfighters exit on the shoulders of the crowd when victorious.
If you’re visiting during a bullfight, don’t miss the moments before. The “paseíllo” ceremony, the crowd’s excitement, and the municipal band’s music are essential parts of the show.
Events at the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba
Although it was born as a bullfighting venue, the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba has reinvented itself and is now a multidisciplinary space hosting numerous events throughout the year.
During the Fair of Our Lady of Health, held in May, the bullring becomes one of the cultural hotspots of Andalusia. Bullfights that week draw thousands of fans from all over Spain.
Additionally, the venue hosts: equestrian shows, theatrical performances, gastronomic festivals, and of course, special events during the Córdoba Fair, one of the most anticipated celebrations for locals and visitors, turning the whole city into a hive of joy.
If you’re interested in any of these events, buy tickets in advance. Many sell out quickly, especially those during the fair.
Concerts at the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba
One of the most recent highlights of the Córdoba bullring is its music programming. National and international artists have turned the venue into a unique stage during the summer months. In recent years, names like Alejandro Sanz, Aitana, Maná, Pablo Alborán, or Manuel Carrasco have offered unforgettable concerts under the Cordoban sky.
Thanks to its capacity and excellent acoustics, many organizers consider it a must-stop on the Andalusian summer circuit. Plus, the location is ideal: near the city center, with easy access and a lively atmosphere.
Key Info: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
Before attending a show at the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba, it’s important to consider some practical details.
Tickets and Ticket Office Hours
Tickets for various events—whether bullfights, concerts, or cultural activities—can be purchased in several ways:
- Online, via platforms such as El Corte Inglés, com, Ticketmaster, or the official websites of the organizers.
- At the physical ticket office of the bullring, usually open in the days leading up to and on the day of the event.
The ticket office usually opens Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 22:00, and on event days two hours before showtime.
For popular shows like bullfights or summer concerts, buy your tickets early to secure a good seat, especially in the shade.
- Address: Av. Gran Vía Parque, s/n, Poniente Sur, 14005 Córdoba.
- Phone: 952 32 81 00
- Email: info@loscalifas.eu
Other Events and Performances
At the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba, it’s not all about music or bullfighting.
The venue also hosts outdoor film screenings in summer, book and craft fairs, charity events, and family-friendly activities.
To get tickets for each event, keep in mind that every event has its own ticketing system. So, we recommend checking official platforms or contacting the tourism office.
How to Get to the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba
Getting There by Bus
From Córdoba’s city center, you can walk in about 15–20 minutes or take one of these lines:
- Line 3 (Valdeolleros – Fuensanta).
- Line 4 (Fátima – Carrefour).
- Line 10 (Ciudad Sanitaria – Villarrubia).
- Line 11 (Centro – Sector Sur).
From the train or bus station, you can also walk or connect with Line 3.
Getting There by Car
If you’re in Córdoba city, access via Avenida del Aeropuerto or Avenida Gran Capitán, two main roads leading directly to the Poniente Sur area.
From Málaga, the best option is the A-45 motorway, a journey of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s a comfortable and well-signposted route.
There is no private parking at the venue, but there are several options nearby: such as Parking La Victoria, the Renfe Station parking lot, or free street parking in adjacent areas (though these fill up quickly on event days).
Map of the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba
In the following map, you’ll find the exact location of the Plaza de Toros de Córdoba, as well as some nearby places we recommend visiting if you’re in the area. One big advantage of the bullring is its location—just minutes on foot from the center and surrounded by charming neighborhoods, parks, and dining options. Here are a few suggestions to complete your day:
- Parque Cruz Conde: a large green space to rest or enjoy a picnic.
- Avenida Manolete: full of bars, terraces, and ice cream shops—perfect for grabbing something after an event. If you enjoy local tapas, this is also a great starting point to discover some of the best tapas in Córdoba, with bars that blend tradition and innovation.
- Ciudad Jardín: a typical Cordoban residential neighborhood with wineries and taverns offering home-style cuisine.
- Municipal Handicraft Souk: less than 30 minutes on foot, where you can purchase ceramics, leather goods, or local jewelry.
- Historic center of Córdoba: if you plan your day well, you can start at the Mosque-Cathedral, continue through the Jewish Quarter, cross the Roman Bridge, and end at the bullring for a cultural afternoon.
