Event: Spain

Corre del Bou

When:	12 - 16 Sep 2008 (annual)
Where:	Plaza de Fira
Costs:	Various
Opening Hours:	Various

The Corre del Bou, or bull run, in the centre of Cardona is one of the most anticipated events in the Catalonian cultural calendar. It forms an important part of the Festa Major and dates back to the 16th century.

On the opening day of the fiesta, the encierro takes place - when everyone passes through the streets and the young bulls are placed in a pen in a makeshift arena in the town square. On the following three days they are joined by around 100 men. The only way out is to climb some of the few ropes or alternatively scramble up the sides of the arena walls. Attempt it at your peril!

The act that gets the biggest audience, however, is the cargolera. A man contained in a wicker basket, with only his legs and head sticking out, must attempt to dodge the crazed bull attacking him. His last resort is to endure the blows and roll himself to safety as quickly as possible.

If you find bullfighting events distasteful or unpleasant, steer well clear of this festival.