The small eastern town of El Seibo, one of the oldest and most historic (and least known) places in the Dominican Republic, held its traditional religious feast days on the past weekend. Bullfights are included and are described as the most iconic features of the tradition. The bullfights are a scene out of Old Spain but intended to be without the bloodshed.
Actually, it is the only place in the Dominican Republic where something like this takes place. A bullring is set up in the middle of the town. There is seating available that ranges in price from RD$100 to RD$1,000. There are food vendors, and refreshments to be enjoyed as every day six bulls are released and brave toreadors, with no medical insurance, taunt and scamper around the bulls in the very muddy arena.
Despite the rains, the brave men go out with their capes, but no swords and provide a spectacle for young and old alike.
Some foreigners have learned of this event and are also in the grandstands.
Although the bulls are not harmed, some of the bullfighters do get hurt, and receive first aid from members of the local Civil Defense teams that are always on hand.
This year, seven young men were injured by the bulls. One of the young men, Felix Guerrero was injured in his right leg by a bull. He told Diario Libre he would never again participate in a bullfight.
Mark your calendars for this time next year, and make plans to visit the hometown of the first Dominican president, Pedro Santana.
The El Seibo bull ring is 90 km from Punta Cana International Airport, about an hour and a half drive.
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Diario Libre
Diario Libre
14 May 2024