BULL ON A ROPE

 


Ok, Now that we are on the island of Terceira, lets get to know more about it.  One of 9 tiny islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.You can drive across the entire island in less than 30 minutes and you don’t have to drive fast to do so. The entire island is 153 sq.mi.


Terceira is know as the “Lilac” island. That was the sweet fragrance coming though the balcony door last night. There is a small American Air Force base located here along with the Military Command for the Azores.


This is the island famous for it’s bloodless street bull fights. Well almost bloodless sometimes the participants or spectators get hurt but never the bulls. We are here too early to join the watching crowds. The daily event begins May 1st. And lasts until October 15th. This happens in all the cities and they take turns hosting the event. I will need to return to get you some photos.


During the bullfight, the bull runs through the streets, held by a long rope, as a group of men control the animals movements. It is a test of strength, courage and skill for both the bull and the men. 


The bulls are bred in the pastures of Terceira central region and are chosen for their cunning. It’s horns are padded and then it is let loose on the streets. The

windows and balconies are crowded with people eager to cheer the spectacle. 


Fireworks are set and the men and bull immediately start running about. A red parasol is put suddenly in front of the bull and while the holder of the parasol tries to avoid the horns, the men on the rope moderate the momentum. Their job is to not be dragged along while deliberately giving the bull a little more freedom to liven up the show. This “Bullfighting on a Rope” has evolved beginning in the 16th Century.

In Portuguese it is called: Touradas a Cord.


I’m sure you’ve heard of soap on a rope. Well this is bull on a rope. 







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