Running of the Bulls | San Fermin | Festival San Fermin Pamplona Spain Running of the Bulls | San Fermin | San Fermin Pamplona Spain The fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Irunea/Pamplona, in the region of Navarra, every year from the 6th to the 14th of July. They have become internationally known because of the running of the bulls, where the bulls are lead through the streets of the old quarter as far as the bull ring by runners. The fiestas are celebrated in honor of San Fermin, patron saint of Navarra, although the religious aspect would seem to have taken on a secondary role over the last number of years. Nowadays, the fiestas are seen as a mass gathering of people from all the corners of the world and where the partying, the fun and the joy of it all are the most outstanding ingredients. The Encierro ... The Running of the Bulls The Encierro is the event at the heart of the Sanfermines and makes the fiesta a spectacle that would be unimaginable in any other place in the world. It was born from need: getting the bulls from outside the city into the bullring.

The encierro takes place from July 7th to 14th and starts at the corral in Calle Santo Domingo when the clock on the church of San Cernin strikes eight o"clock in the morning. After the launching of two rockets, the bulls charge behind the runners for 825 metres, the distance between the corral and the bullring. The run usually lasts between three and four minutes although it has sometimes taken over ten minutes, especially if one of the bulls has been isolated from his companions. Chants to San Fermin The bull run has a particularly emotional prelude. It is when the runners, just a few metres up the slope from the corral where the bulls are waiting, raise their rolled newspapers and chant to an image of San Fermin placed in a small recess in the wall in the Cuesta de Santo Domingo. Against the strongest of silences, the following words can be heard: "A San Fermin pedimos, por ser nuestro patron, nos guie en el encierro dandonos su bendicion." (We ask San Fermin, being our patron saint, to guide us in the bull run and give us his blessing).

When they finish they shout "Viva San Fermin!, Gora San Fermin." This chant is sung three times before 8am first, then when there are five minutes to go before 8am, then three minutes and one minute before the gate of the corral is opened. Rockets in the bullring The third rocket, fired from the bullring, signals that all the bulls have entered the bullring. A fourth and final rocket indicates that all the bulls are safely in the corral located inside the bullring, and that the bull run has ended. A fence of 3,000 parts For security reasons, a double fence marks out the route of the bull run through the streets. It is made of over 3,000 wooden parts (planks, posts, gates, etc.). Part of the fence stays put throughout the fiesta but other sections are assembled and disassembled every day by a special brigade of workers. The role of the pastores A large number of pastores (bull "shepherds") cover the entire bull run. They place themselves behind the bulls, with their only protection being a long stick.

Their main role is to stop the odd idiot from inciting the bulls from behind, to avoid the bulls turning round and running backwards, and to help any bulls that have stopped or have been separated from their companions to continue running towards the bullring. The dobladores Other key people in the bull run are the dobladores, people with good bullfighting knowledge (sometimes ex-bullfighters) who take up position in the bullring with capes to help the runners "fan out" (in other words, run to the sides after they enter the bullring) and "drag" the bulls towards the corral as quickly as possible. The two groups of mansos (bullocks) The six fighting bulls that will take part in the evening bullfight start the run accompanied by an initial group of mansos, which act as "guides" to help the bulls cover the route. Two minutes after leaving the corral in Santo Domingo, a second group of bullocks (the so-called "sweep-up" group), which are slower and smaller than the first one, are let out to lead any bulls that might have stopped or been left behind in the bull run towards the bullring.

Useful information about the bull run The encierro is an unrepeatable experience for spectators and runners alike. It is a spectacle that is defined by the level of risk and the physical ability of the runners. An inexperienced runner should learn about the characteristics of this dangerous "race" (although it should not be considered as a race) before starting, and also about the protective measures to be taken for his/her own safety and that of the people running alongside. Not everyone can run the encierro. It requires cool nerves, quick reflexes and a good level of physical fitness. Anyone who does not have these three should not take part. It is a highly risky enterprise. Runners should start somewhere between the Plaza del Ayuntamiento (City Hall Square) and the pink-slab Education building in the Cuesta of Santo Domingo, and they should be there before 7:30am because entry to the run is closed from that time on. The rest of the run, except for the stretch mentioned above, must be completely clear of runners until a few minutes before 8am. What is not allowed in the bull run People under 18 years of age, who must not run or participate.

Crossing police barriers placed to ensure that the run goes off smoothly. Standing in areas and places along the route that have been expressly prohibited by the municipal police force. Before the bulls are released, waiting in corners, blind spots, doorways or in entrances to other establishments located along the run. Leaving doors of shops or entrances to apartments open along the route. The responsibility for ensuring these doors are closed lies with the owners or tenants of the properties. Being in the bull run while drunk, under the effects of drugs or in any other improper manner. Carrying objects that are unsuitable for the run to take place correctly. Wearing inappropriate clothes or footwear for the run. Inciting the bulls or attracting their attention in any manner, and for whatever reason, along the route of the run or in the bullring. Running backwards towards the bulls or running behind them. Holding, harassing or maltreating the bulls and stopping them from moving or being led to the pens in the bullring. Stopping along the run and staying on the fence, barriers or in doorways in such a way that the run or the safety of other runners is jeopardised. Taking photographs inside the run, or from the fences or barriers without due authorisation.

Carrying objects that are unsuitable for the good order and security of the bull run. Installing elements that invade horizontal, vertical or aerial space along the bull run, unless expressly authorised by the Mayor"s Office. Any other action that could hamper the bull run taking place normally. Pamplona Accommodation and San Fermin Tours for 2016 Current Tour Options Unavailable Running of the Bulls in Pamplona | San Fermin | Spanish Fiestas 8. Plaza de Toros 9. Plaza del Castillo A third rocket is set off once all the bulls have entered the bullring and the fourth, and final, rocket means that the bulls are now in the bullpen and the bullrun has finished. The vast number of people taking part in the bullrun nowadays adds to the already considerable danger of running alongside wild bulls weighing in the region of 700kg each. A word of warning … With the drinks flowing and the party in full swing you could be forgiven for forgetting that running the bulls is an extremely dangerous activity. Under no circumstances should you even consider running if you’re intoxicated. Not only are drunken people a risk to themselves they are also a risk to everyone else.

There are plenty security guards and first aid personnel but there is little they can do during the running of the bulls such that 15 people have died and over 200 been seriously injured since 1924. Watching the Bullrunning Street: You can stand behind the fences that mark the route of the bullrun but you need to arrive by around 6.30am to get the best spots on the top of the fence directly overlooking the run. Another good spot is in front of the museum on c/ Santo Domingo where there isn’t a fence but the best spots here are usually taken before 6am leaving you with a cold two hour wait before the run starts. Private Balconies: A great alternative is to get yourself onto a balcony overlooking the bullrun. You might be lucky enough to meet someone who invites you onto their terrace, alternatively, ask in the tourist information office (c/ Esclava, 1). Plaza de Toros: Your only other options are to go to the bullring and watch the end as the bulls (and some terrified runners) arrive in the arena. Alternatively, you could head for a bar and watch the bull run which is shown live every morning on national TV.

Take a look at this incredible video produced by Spanish TV (RTVE) on 13th July 2013. It portrays all the tension and excitement of the bullrun culminating in horrific scenes at the entrance to the bullring where some runners had fallen which led to a major crush that blocked the entrance of the bulls. More injuries resulted that day than for many years. Watching the Bullfights On every evening of the fiesta beginning at 6.30pm on 7th July there is a bullfight in the Pamplona bullring. Tickets for the bullfights are sold out well in advance as the arena only holds 12,500 people. Every evening after the day’s bullfight some tickets go on sale for the next evening’s event at the ‘taquillas’ at the bull ring. You’ll usually find ticket touts operating around the Plaza de Toros during the day and before the bullfight selling at elevated prices. Getting to Pamplona Whilst there are no international flights into Pamplona Airport, you can fly to Madrid or Barcelona (seasonal) then take a connecting domestic service to get there. The airport is only 6km from the city centre.

There are regular train services from Barcelona, Madrid and San Sebastian to Pamplona as well as frequent bus services. For more detailed information on how to get to Pamplona take a look at our comprehensive Pamplona Travel Guide . Where to Stay in Pamplona The city of Pamplona simply isn’t big enough to accommodate the vast number of people who flock there during Sanfermines. It’s more or less impossible to book Pamplona Hotels at short notice so if you want the comfort of a hotel bed you should consider booking many months in advance. Similary budget accommodation in hostels gets fully booked a long time before the event so planning your visit some time ahead is crucial. My personal preference is to book a place on the campsite in Pamplona which lies about 7km from the city centre. Whilst it is also packed throughout the week of the fiestas they do take security seriously and offer bus transport in and out of town. The free campsite that appears near the Ezcaba campsite during the fiestas is another option but isn’t recommended for security reasons as petty crime is rife during San Fermin.

Similarly sleeping in parks along with many others should be avoided for the same reason An alternative to staying in Pamplona is to book a hotel in San Sebastian , Vitoria-Gasteiz or Estella and make the early morning trip to the bull run from there. The trouble is that getting public transport early enough in the morning to see the bullrun can prove impossible so this option is only really viable if you have your own vehicle. Frequently Asked Questions Every year in the run-up to San Fermín we receive the same questions about the fiestas. Here they are together with answers: How Much Does it Cost to Run with the Bulls? Whilst this does come as a surprise to many people who ask this question, there is no need to pay to run the bulls or even register for that matter. All you have to do is head for Plaza Consistorial near the start of the route preferably before 7am. Don’t turn up just before 8am as you’ll be too late to get a spot and don’t wait along Calle Estafeta as the police will clear everyone off this street before the bullrun commences. Can Women Run With The Bulls?

Yes, there is nothing to stop women from participating although they tend to be very few in numbers. It’s very rare to see any Spanish females running, the majority normally seem to be Aussies. The Navarra Tourist Board website is a handy resource for tourism information in this part of Spain. San Fermin Festival - Running of the Bulls | don Quijote don Quixote Museum San Fermin Festival San Fermin Festival. Every year, thousands of people, dressed in the traditional white clothing, celebrate the week of San Fermin in Pamplona. Uno de enero, dos de febrero, tres de marzo, cuatro de abril, cinco de mayo, seis de junio, siete de julio ¡San Fermín! (January 1st, February 2nd, March 3rd, April 4th, May 5th, June 6th, July 7th.

San Fermin!) Every year, thousands of Pamploneses (people from Pamplona) and visitors, dressed from head to toe in the traditional immaculate white clothing with red handkerchiefs around their necks, fill the streets of Pamplona to celebrate the week of festivities in honor of San Fermin known as Los Sanfermines. The festival of San Fermin mixes a variety of contrasts: official and popular culture, religion and profanity, new and old, and order and chaos. The celebration kicks off with the launch of a rocket (el chupinazo) in the square of town hall at noon on July 6th and ends nine days later on July 14th. The Running of the Bulls This street festival gained international popularity after the American author Ernest Hemingway used the celebration as a backdrop for the characters of his 1926 masterpiece The Sun Also Rises (Fiesta in Spanish). Today, Los Sanfermines continue to be world famous as a place where the brave take the challenge in the Encierro (running of the bulls). However, San Fermin is not only running with bulls.

The streets of Pamplona also come alive with music, fireworks, folkloric events, dancing, singing and religious ceremonies. Los Sanfermines offer visitors an open and hospitable festival, where anything out of the ordinary is welcome and can soon become part of the tradition, as long as it is respectful of others. Los Sanfermines are a festival where nobody is a stranger, where all participants are considered equal, and where the festive spirit never dies throughout its 9 days of celebrations. The festive spirit of Los Sanfermines is important, but this is also a festival with religious origins. Events such as the procession that takes place on the morning of the 7th day, help keep this aspect alive. The religious celebration complements, in perfect harmony, the iconic bull -a totem- and Baco, the god of wine. Everyone in the city including locals and outsiders has a great time over these 9 days, a time that always seems to go by too fast. In summary, San Fermin is an open, multitudinous festival, where you must book accommodations months in advance if you hope to go, and where the town's residents make visitors feel at home.

During Los Sanfermines, Pamplona turns into the world capital of happiness, and you have to go discover why, when the festival ends at midnight on the 14th, everyone sings the sad farewell song called “pobre de mí” to express their longing for the next year to come: "Pobre de mí, pobre de mí, que se han acabado las fiestas de San Fermín” (“Poor me, poor me, the San Fermin festivities have ended”). Contact us Photos of the Running of the Bulls at the 1947 San Fermin Festival SHARE The annual event in Pamplona is a celebratory, controversial and occasionally gory tradition The festival of San Fermín, held every July in Pamplona, Spain, since the 16th century, has its origins in religious tradition, honoring a Catholic saint now nearly 2,000 years martyred. But the celebrations have become increasingly secular over the years, with round-the-clock revelry—and nostalgia for a world Ernest Hemingway so vividly painted in The Sun Also Rises—drawing visitors from around the world.

The festival’s most enduring legacy is the running of the bulls, or encierro, from the Spanish word for to corral or enclose. Held on the second day of the festival, July 7, the encierro consists of letting loose a small number of bulls in the city streets while transporting them to the bullring for bullfighting. Though it takes place during several festivals, the encierro at San Fermín is the most world-renowned. The running of the bulls and ensuing bullfight have been the subject of criticism from animal rights groups like PETA, which say it tortures animals for human entertainment. But it’s not just the animals whose lives are endangered. In 1947, when LIFE sent photographer Tony Linck to document the mayhem, two bull runners—men who run in front of the bulls—were gored, and the crowd was too enraptured with the bedlam to notice: For a week gay blades stay up all night dancing and drinking, then gather at 7 o’clock in the morning for the encierro, the bull run. Yelling and jostling, they lead the bulls in a mad dash through the street toward the bullring.

Last month’s fiesta was such a gay affair that almost nobody noticed when two of the encierro runners were killed by the bulls. More than a dozen people have died during the festivities in the last century. Consequently, several safety measures have been established to improve the safety of revelers, including rules banning poor footwear, inebriation and harassing the bulls during the run. But there will always be more than a hint of danger in the annual tradition. The danger, of course, is part of the fun. Liz Ronk, who edited this gallery, is the Photo Editor for LIFE.com. Follow her on Twitter @lizabethronk . Running of the Bulls 2017 in Pamplona PamplonaMan Contact RUNNING OF THE BULLS 2017 FESTIVAL SAN FERMIN Running of the Bulls 2017 in Pamplona, Spain. I’m your local travel services expert for help arranging your visit to the San Fermin Festival 2017. Our Balconies look directly onto Calle Estafeta, the most famous street in Pamplona where the bulls run each morning during the fiesta.

I have been helping visitors to have extraordinary experiences during the San Fermin Festival from the 5th to 15th of July each year. We know and understand what you need to fully enjoy our city and the greatest festival in the world, as only insiders can. I speak Spanish fluently and know everything about my adopted city and our world famous fiesta. In 2007 we formed our travel services company. We offer all inclusive package trips and experiences in Pamplona during the San Fermín festival. Compare the lodgings we offer in hotels, private & shared apartments in the old town centre in Pamplona. Contact us to rent balconies for a safe, front row view to witness the spectacle of the Pamplona bull run 2017 (the “encierro”) at the very best vantage points along the bull run route. In the evening, take in the bullfight with tickets for seats in the coveted shaded section of the Plaza de Toros bullring arena. We realize that everyone has different budgets and ideas of how they would like to experience the fiesta so don't worry, I will guide you in the right direction.

The San Fermín Festival 2017 runs from July 6th to 14th. It starts at noon on July 6th every year with the Opening Ceremony known as ‘el Chupinazo’. Rockets explode from the balcony of Pamplona City Hall and the mayor announces the official start of the fiesta, signalling thousands of revellers to tie on their iconic red panuelos (or neckerchiefs) in tribute to the fiesta’s patron saint. The intensity of the fiesta is at its highest as visitors and locals alike celebrate in all the bars, restaurants and plazas of the old city. For 8 ½ days each July, you can experience the greatest celebration on earth. The non-stop fiesta incorporates a multitude of free family events. With traditional Basque music and dance, Basque cultural sports, exquisite Navarran cuisine, international firework competitions each night, live concerts, and so much more for all, your family and friends will have a unique and memorable experience. Frequently Asked Questions about Running of the Bulls-Bucket List Events Frequently Asked Questions about Running of the Bulls 1) What is the San Fermin Festival ?

The fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Irunea/Pamplona, in the region of Navarra. They have become internationally known because of the running of the bulls, where the bulls are lead through the streets of the old quarter as far as the bull ring by runners. The fiestas are celebrated in honor of San Fermin, patron saint of Navarra, although the religious aspect would seem to have taken on a secondary role over the last number of years. Nowadays, the fiestas are seen as a mass gathering of people from all the corners of the world and where the partying, the fun and the joy of it all are the most outstanding ingredients. 2) Where is Pamplona ? How do I get there? Pamplona is about 50 miles from the Pyrenees Mountains and the Spanish-French border and around 250 miles north of Madrid. Pamplona has an airport with daily flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and Lisbon. Train travel from Barcelona, Madrid and San Sebastian are also very convenient to arrive in Pamplona. Please refer to for information on Spain’s national train service. 3) When does the San Fermin Festival take place?

The dates of the San Fermin Festival are the same every year, no matter the day of the week. The festival begins on July 6th and concludes on July 14th. 4) What’s the average age of Bucket List Events clients? Hard question to answer, but most of our clients are between the ages of 20-65. But it varies with each group. We’ve had guests that are 60+ years of age as well as kids with their families and college students. We don’t have an age limit; you just have to be ready to have a good time! 5) Where is the Bucket List Events balcony located on the Bull Run? Our main balcony is located on Calle Estafeta 57 – it overlooks the longest stretch of the bull run route. It is easy to find because we will walk you from your hotel to our apartment where you will be served breakfast and have access to an open bar. We do offer other locations upon request. 6) Does your balcony space fill up? Yes! We accept only a small and exact number of people to watch from our balcony and share breakfast with us each morning. We want everyone to be able to see the run easily.

Therefore, we suggest that you reserve your space as soon as possible. 7) Can I buy an extra day for a spot on the balcony? Yes, all of our tours include one morning to watch the run on our Balcony, and additional mornings on the balcony can be purchased based on availability. Package clients can purchase these at a discounted rate, just ask! Click here to check out more about the views and info on our VIP balcony. 8) Why is the opening weekend more expensive? Regardless of the day of the week the festival begins, the first 48 hours of the San Fermin celebration will be the most attended and boisterous days of the week. Hotel rooms are in higher demand and acquired at higher rates. There is also a one-time event called the Chupinazo, which is an extremely popular event. We host an open house at our balcony to watch some of the debauchery during the opening day. Join in the march or watch the action from a Bucket List Events Private balcony overlooking the Chupinazo Stretch! 9) What happens at the Opening Ceremony (Chupinazo) on July 6th?

At 12:00 noon every July 6th, the square in front of the Town Hall witnesses chaos when the start of the San Fermín Fiesta is marked by a rocket launch. All morning, crowds pack in like sardines at the Plaza Ayuntamiento. The Mayor and members of the Council step out onto the balconies of the Town Hall to greet the crowds. There is an announcement: “Pamploneses, Pamplonesas, Viva San Fermin! Gora San Fermin!” (people of Pamplona, long live San Fermin!). The crowd responds with cries of “Viva!” and “Gora!” The square erupts as hundreds of bottles of champagne are uncorked and sprayed all over the crowd. During the day you can expect atmospheric singing, dancing, plenty of sangria and non-stop partying in the streets. Participants running with the bulls through the streets of Pamplona, Spain 10) What made Bucket List Events choose the hotel that is part of each package? It’s been a fine tuned process that we believe is the best of both worlds. Hotels located within the party areas are often congested and sleep is hard to find.

Our 4-Star hotel, the AC Cuidad, is a Marriott property located less than a mile away from the heart of the festivities, but far enough away that uninterrupted slumber is obtainable. 11) What is the drinking age in Spain? 18 years old. Cheers! Spaniards love to celebrate with a glass (or two) of their country’s many wine varietals. 12) Do we have to dress up in the traditional white attire and red accessories? This is not just for the participants in the run; everyone is wearing this, male and female. . The official San Fermin costume is a white shirt, white pants/skirt, a red sash, and a red neck-scarf. 13) Where can we purchase the attire? There is a shop on every corner selling the traditional clothing articles. 14) How many people attend the San Fermin Festival? Each year, the city hosts 1,000,000 participants over the week. 15) How many times do they do the Running of the Bulls? There are 8 runs, beginning July 7th and concluding on July 14th. Each run begins at 8 AM.

16) What are the bull fights like? A traditional Spanish bull fight is part of your package, but we would like to set the correct expectation. The bulls do die during the fight, and the scene isn’t always well received by everyone. These events are deeply rooted in Spanish culture, and the crowd is traditionally boisterous and have a good time. Crowds overlooking the Running of the Bulls 17) I don’t speak Spanish. Will this be a problem? Unlikely, but we do have guides that are fluent to help with your planning and navigating through the city, especially ordering food! 18) What food is served at the San Fermin Festival? Expect to eat a healthy dose of tapas, paella, and fish. Traditional Spanish fare 19) How is the bathroom situation during the festival? With the increased population during the festival, the city brings in mobile restrooms that are stationed throughout the city. Taking in the evening fireworks 20) What time do the daily festivities end? This is a tricky question to give an exact answer considering the cars and clubs stay open all night. In regards to actual scheduled activities, the run begins at 8 AM and the night capping public fireworks are at 11 PM.

There are concerts beginning at midnight each night on stages set up around the old town. 21) When should I buy my train ticket? Train travel during the festival is extremely busy and we advise you book tickets in advance to ensure a seat. The train journey between Madrid and Pamplona is about 3 and ½ hours and is 4 hours by car. The train journey between Barcelona and Pamplona is about 6 hours. You can book your RENFE tickets 60 days in advance. A tragic history - Sanfermin.com A tragic history A tragic history A tragic history At least 16 runners have lost their lives down the years when taking part in the Running of the Bulls. The last casualty was Daniel Jimeno, fatally gored by a Jandilla bull in 2009 Foto: © Sanfermin.com / Pablo Roa Here are dates when the dangerous running of the bulls in Iruñea/Pamplona has met with tragic consequences. 10th July, 2009. Daniel Jimeno Romero (27 years old, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid) Pierced in the area of his left collarbone at the Telefónica stretch.

A Jandilla bull with the name “Capuchino” Daniel Jimeno died at a quarter to nine after receiving a fatal goring to his neck at the Telefónica stretch. The runner was admitted to hospital suffering from respiratory arrest and the medical team could do nothing to save his life. From the very beginning “Capuchino” was eyeing the runners and the animal did not follow the course being taken by the other bulls and the bell-oxen. When the bulls entered the City Hall Square, the bull did not shape to turn left but rather charged straight ahead into several runners. It got left behind by the other animals and in Mercaderes it gored another runner. The bull covered the rest of the course alone. As the rear bull, it caused a lot of frights along the length of the course and in Telefónica it did not follow the direct line and it charged into a group of runners on the right side of the fencing. Daniel Jimeno was on the ground and he tried to slip away under the fencing after falling on the ground. Capuchino charged into the group of runners and the bull caught the runner with his left horn and it pierced the collarbone in a downward trajectory.

The intra-clavicle wound cut the cava vein and made him lose a lot of blood. He was taken to the Hospital de Navarra, but his wounds were mortal and irreparable. Reds scarfs in the same place where Daniel Gimeno was gored. 8th July, 2003. Fermin Etxeberria Irañeta (63 years old, Pamplona). He died the 24th of September of 2003. Section of the run: Mercaderes Ranch: Cebada Gago Bull: “Castillero” Fermin Etxeberria, a regular participant in the running of the bulls since he was fourteen years old, received a severe knock from one of the Cebada Gago bulls on the stretch of Mercaderes which produced a severe cranial traumatism. He was immediately taken off to hospital. Three days later he underwent an operation after suffering arterial hypertension. From that time onwards he remained in the Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital de Navarra in a permanent coma and with artificial respiration until nearly the end of September, when he was removed to a ward.

The 24th of September he died at the San Juan de Dios Clinic in Iruñea-Pamplona, after been in the hospital for two months and a half. 13th July, 1995. Matthew Peter Tasio (22 years old, Illinois, USA) Section: Plaza Consistorial Ranch: Torrestrella Bull: “Castellano” Matthew Peter Tasio stopped off to make a quick visit to the Sanfermines while he was doing his European tour that fateful summer. He came into Pamplona late on the night of the 12th on the coach from Barcelona accompanied by a friend of his. The two young men met up with some compatriots and were soon caught up in the party atmosphere of the long nights of the Festival. Matthew decided he would take part in the bull-running the following morning before taking a coach away the following morning so as to continue their European itinerary. That ominous morning the streets were packed with runners. At eight in the morning the rocket went off to indicate the release of the bulls from the pen at the bottom of Santo Domingo street.

The bulls charged out at an unusually fast pace and caused various runners to scurry and slide as they stumbled to evade the oncoming pack of bulls. “Castellano” was the name of the leading bull and it was leading the charge into the square of the Town Hall. Matthew Tasio was among the scurrying runners in front of the bull. © Emilio Zazu The young man slipped to the ground and struggled to get up again. But no sooner did he get to his feet than he fell once more as other runners dashed past. He began to lift himself once more to his feet when “Castellano” came charging up behind him and ripped into him with his terrible horns at full speed and with all the weight of its 575 kilograms. The goring was mortal from the first, the horns ripped into his stomach and cut through the aorta artery. The young man tried to crawl away to avoid the onrushing pack of bulls coming behind. He struggled as best he could towards the safety of the corral on the right, where a Red Cross unit was standing by. He was quickly rushed to hospital. The goring had caused severe anemia and he lost 90% of his blood even before he reached the hospital.

Eight minutes after the goring he was in the Hospital de Navarra – a remarkable fast time. But even so, he arrived unconscious and in a deplorable state. Despite the efforts made by the doctors to revive him, he passed away a few moments after his admission to the hospital. 13th July, 1980. Vicente Risco and José Antonio Sánchez Navascués Ranch: Guardiola Fantoni (26 years old, Cintruénigo, Navarra) Section: Plaza del Ayuntamiento One of the longest-lasting runnings in the whole history of the Sanfermines – it took 10minutes and 55 seconds and which resulted in the death of two runners, both of which were killed by the same bull, “Antioquio”. This was not the first time that the same bull had taken two lives in the same morning; 33 years earlier, “Semillero” had gored two runners to death on the fateful 10th of July, 1947.

On the deadly morning of the 13th of July, 1980 the whole length of the route was packed with runners and when the bulls were released from the pen they found a crowded mass of fleeing bodies in front of them. Once out of the pen the bulls charged in a pack up the slope of Santo Domingo street. Just at the spot where the old Public Baths were to be found one of the bulls, “Antioquio” slipped and slid to the ground and got separated from the rest of the pack for the remainder of the run. Always an ominous augury in any of bull-runnings. The bull lifted itself and continued its charge forward although it was now a good distance behind the rest of the pack. Charging into the Town Hall square, just beside the Casa Seminario, the bull knocked one runner aside and charged straight at José Antonio Sánchez a young man running in front. It was a clean goring and the young man was dragged along by the horns for several meters almost to the entrance to Mercaderes.

A friend of the young man also running later related how he had shouted to José Antonio to watch out as the bull had turned dangerously towards the right side on getting to its feet, and this is always a dangerous sign, but within seconds he saw how his friend was gored and dragged along the street by the bull. Once tossed off by the bull, the First-Aid Unit rushed in and got the badly-wounded man quickly into an ambulance and rushed to the hospital. But despite giving a blood transfusion of more than 15 liters of blood, his heart stopped beating and the runner passed away at 10.30 in the morning. “Antioquio”, who had continued its solitary run, came charging into the ring. It turned towards the right and charged towards a young man, Vicente Risco, and caught him on its horns. The bull tossed him off and the young man was left kneeling in the ring holding his shocked hands to his gored stomach from which blood was pouring profusely. The crowd roared in consternation and some runners rushed towards Vicente to help him away. But the bull had time to turn and charge again and gored him repeatedly before leaving him mortally wounded.

The bleeding runner was rushed away to the medical infirmary within the bull-ring, but to no avail. The severe goring meant that there was nothing the doctors could do to save him. 8th July, 1977. José Joaquín Esparza Sarasibar (17 years old, Pamplona) Bull: “Silletero” Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “A human blockade had formed right across the entrance. And it was caused by all those who don’t seem to have the guts to run in front of the bull’s horns and who start running pell-mell towards the ring practically before the rocket has gone off. The herd was confronted with a human wall blocking their way and the bulls, as if themselves terrified, struck out with their powerful horns and tried to clear a space through the crushing mass of bodies. The uproar was beyond description, the clamor deafening and the sensation astonishing. The bulls turned about wildly, angry and excited.

One of them, “Silletero” by name, who bore the number 12 on his back, the number branded onto his skin when he was a young bull, turned back towards the way he had come. Shouts and cries to close the wooden gate to the ring amid the general upheaval. Some felt that the bulls shouldn’t be allowed turn back and others thought that the bulls and piled-up bodies couldn’t be left like that in the narrow space of the entrance, all mixed together. Three times the main gate was opened and closed where two of the bulls and some of the bell-oxen come back out to the fences.” It all happened in six minutes, but which seemed like an eternity, from the moment that the herd came up against the human wall of bodies until finally the rocket was heard with profound relief for it signified that the bulls had finally been led into the safety of their pens. The toll was one of the bloodiest ever in the long history of the bull-running, but for in most cases everyone recovered from their wounds without leaving any permanent traces. All except José Joaquin Esparza, a young man of 17 years, who was left dead on the spot”.

9th July, 1975. Gregorio Górriz Sarasa (41 years old, Arazuri, Navarra) Section of the run: callejón Ranch: Francisco Javier Osborne (Jeréz de la Frontera – Cádiz) Bull: “Navarrico” Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “Meanwhile at the entrance to the ring there was another pile-up and instead of loosening, the pile-up grew tighter and tighter. The bell-oxen gingerly stepped over the sprawling bodies and entered the ring leaving many of the runners with bruises from their heavy hoofs. The bulls, seeing their passage blocked by the spread-eagled bodies, turned back and charged into everyone or anything in front of them. The runners finally managed to turn the bulls and lead them towards the entrance. The bulls headed for the right side where the biggest pile-up was found. One of the bulls entered close to the side wall on the right before suddenly turning to its left. There he found Gregorio Gorriz and he charged at him and gave him a mortal goring“.

12th July, 1974. Juan Ignacio Eraso Martiartu (18 years old, Txantrea, Pamplona) Section of the run: between Telefónica and el callejón Ranch: Herederos de Don Manuel Arranz (Salamanca) Bull: “Palmello” Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “Juan Ignacio Eraso had run the final stage of the bull-running from the end of Estafeta street, at the level of the Bar Fitero, He was aware of two bulls which had become separated from the others, but was unaware that there was a third bull further behind which had also become separated. After running almost to the entrance of the ring, and seeing the two bulls safely enter the ring, he decided to try to get up onto the fence. But the packed crowd meant that there was no free space and so he turned to walk back up the passageway. © Zubieta y Retegui Suddenly he found himself face to face with “Palmello” the remaining bull which he had not reckoned with.

Despite the fact that other runners tried to distract it, Palmello had his sights set on Juan Ignacio Eraso, and the youth froze in his place, only covering his face with his arms, instead of trying to slip through the fence or attempt some other means of getting out of the way. He was gored against the right fence and lifted by the bull and tossed onto the left side of the fence”. 12th July, 1969. Hilario Pardo Simón (45 years old, Murchante, Navarra) Section: Santo Domingo Bull: “Reprochado” Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “The bull-run turned dangerous from the first moment as one of the bulls unexpectedly charged forward and outpaced the rest of the pack and was at the heels of the runners who were struggling to get away from it. Many of them pinned themselves against the long wall of the Military Hospital or, having lost their balance, lay stretched-out immobile on the pavement where they had fallen.

Many of the runners turned to the right where there was some space available at the slope leading towards the Museum of Navarra. “Reprochado” – for that was the name of the bull – followed those runners to the right and gored one, Gregorio Z.J., in the stomach with a tremendous butt of its horns. This runner would eventually recover from his wound, but a second runner was then immediately charged by the bull and this time it was a fatal charge for the runner had fallen to the ground – a man called Hilario Pardo- and he was caught in a fatal zig-zag attack where the bull swung first with his right horn and followed up with a blow from his left horn, which left the corpse gushing blood all over the pavement. The subsequent photos revealed that the wounded man received the first goring and that the mortal victim was then attacked – contrary to what the crowd thought at the time where they thought the dead man had been attacked first”. 9th July, 1961.

Vicente Urrizola Istúriz (32 years old, Pamplona) Section of the run: slope of Santo Domingo, beginning of Plaza Ayuntamiento Ranch: Alvaro de Domecq Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “Vicente Urrizola Isturiz was once more standing at the ready that morning at the initial stage of the bull-running as he was usually wont to do. He was at the level of the City Market building, in Santo Domingo street, just beside the Military Hospital (What is now the City Museum). The rocket went off and amid the rushing crowd, the mortal goring he received went unnoticed by the crowd and it was only when he died in hospital some thirty hours later from his wounds, that the full significance of the event was appreciated by the people of Pamplona”. 10th July, 1947.

Casimiro Heredia Pamplona Section of the run: Estafeta Ranch: Don Antonio Urquijo (Murubes) Bull: “Semillero” Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “Casimiro Heredia was standing inside the corral talking to some friends at the doorway of their house when the crowd came charging up the street leading the bulls. His last words to the couple were, ” You’d better get back inside…I’ll see you later. He ran for some yards in front of the bulls, unaware that one of the bulls, “Semillero”, had become separated from the others some distance back. We’ll never know if he was caught by surprise or if he had time to see the bull. The fact is the bull was striding up the street, clearing space left and right, threatening all in front of him with his pointed horns. Casimiro was caught cleanly by the big horns and lifted by the bull from the middle of the street and tossed like a ragdoll to the right side of the pavement. © Archivo Cecilio Vierge The crowd immediately sensed the seriousness of the wound.

The mortally wounded man was doubled up on the ground a few yards from the menacing bull when the bull noticed him again and once more charged into him. The bull lifted him up with his horns from the floor and tossed him against the wall of the street. The unfortunate man was already dead as the bull continued to toss him from side to side.” 10th July, 1947. Julián Zabalza Villava (Navarra) Section of the run: Bullring Ranch: Don Antonio Urquijo (Murubes) Bull: “Semillero” Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “Meanwhile, the rampaging bull, furiously charged another runner who scurried to his right in an attempt to get under the protecting fence. Heedless of the danger, this runner – a young man from the nearby town of Villava – who had come to the bull-ring with his girlfriend and his sister – had decided to leave the safety of the ringside seats and go out through the entrance gate in search of the bull which had become separated from the others.

He ran back through the entrance gate followed by the bull and made the fatal mistake of turning towards the right side, which is invariably the side that the bulls always turn towards as they come through the entrance. Why this should be so is not very clear but if it is not a case where the bulls fan out and come through the entrance in formation, then it is almost inevitable that they will head towards the right side. The runner tried to avoid the charge, but the bull found his target and ruthlessly gored the fleeing youth. While a couple of men – “El Chico de Olite” and “El Niño del Matadero” – successfully teased the bull away from the fallen body, a dismayed group hurried to the aid of the spread-eagled body in the arena. The bull was eventually lead to its pen while the mortally wounded youth was hurriedly carried to the surgery room within the bull-ring. Within three or four minutes of his arrival, the young man, Julián Zabalza, expired from the fatal goring“. 10th July, 1935. Gonzalo Bustinduy y Gutiérrez de la Solana 29 years old, S.

Luis de Potosí (México) Section of the run: Bullring Ranch: Doña Carmen de Federico (Murubes) Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “The six bulls bred by Doña Carmen de Federico were just about to enter the final passageway leading to the ring when, suddenly, some reckless youths taunting the bulls caused the biggest of the pack to separate from the others as it turned back to confront the taunting youths. One of the youths boldly stepped in front of the bull waving his outstretched jacket in front of the bull’s face. The young man had no idea of what he was doing – the very act of appalling risk would be enough to make that clear- if it had not been subsequently confirmed by many witnesses who related that the person had earlier been seen well out of his head from drinking even some hours before the bull-running started. The bull charged forward and the young man tried to effect a toreador’s cape with his jacket before falling to the ground.

The bull gored him with a mortal blow to the rips, tearing into him with a deep stab of his horns to his armpit. The gushing blood which quickly stained the bright yellow shirt of Gonzalo Bustinduy augured ill for his future and the worst fears of the onlookers were to be confirmed despite the bravery of the custodians and one “Chico de Olite” who teased the bull away from the mortally wounded man”. 8th July, 1927. Santiago Martínez Zufia (34 years old, Pamplona) Section of the run: Bullring Ranch: Don Celso Cruz del Castillo (Toledo) Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “The docile oxen were leading the bulls into the ring tamely and comfortably when, no sooner past the entrance, suddenly one of the bulls turned violently to the right away from the others, in pursuit of a man who was teasing him with a rod.

The bull rushed towards one of the protective board fences at the side of the ring, in pursuit of his quarry, where, losing sight of his initial victim, he charged blindly at a man who happened to be in front of the wooden fence. The bull gored Santiago Martinez, the unfortunate bystander, deeply and violently, lifting him up by the horns and only tossing him off when it bent its head to the ground, so deep was the goring. The hapless man struggled to his feet but only to fall mortally wounded into the arms of some men who had rushed to his aid”. 13th July, 1924.

Esteban Domeño Laborra (22 years old, Sangüesa) Section of the run: Telefónica (before the callejón) Ranch: Conde de Santa Coloma (Andalucía) Text from the book “Historia trágica del encierro de Pamplona” (1978), by Luis del Campo “And the crowd, oblivious to the fact that the safest spot is to head towards the left side of the corral when caught in a predicament, piled up on the right side where the bull only had to make a blind charge through them to butt and gore a victim. The unfortunate youth who was gored had no chance to avoid the headlong thrust of the bull as the tight crowd prevented him from jumping onto the fence and he was caught standing up with a clean mortal stab to his rigid body.

It was clear from the first that the wound was serious as the youth dropped to the ground, rigid and intensely pale from the blow.” Esteban Domeño Laborra was the name of the young man who was to die the following day at 1.30 in the afternoon of the 14th of July at the early age of 22, having only managed to survive the mortal goring for some 30 hours. © Archivo Fernando Hualde 7th July, 1910. Francisco García Gurrea (21 years old, Falces) San Fermin festival 2015: Running of the bulls - The Boston Globe Already a subscriber? Members Sign In San Fermin festival 2015: Running of the bulls Once again the San Fermin festival is underway in Pamplona, Spain. Dating from the 16th century and known worldwide for the harrowing running of the bulls over the city’s cobbled streets and criticized for its bullfights, the nine-day festival kicked off in a packed city square Monday with people dousing one another with wine and water. It concludes at midnight on July 14 with singing by candlelight.

San Fermín Festival in Pamplona • SIDSNET 5 How to Get There? San Fermin Festival As summer and winter gear up in their hemispheres, wise globetrotters seek to take full advantage of the weather in July. Individuals whose New Year resolution have been to live their life a less ordinary, San Fermin festival in Pamplona will offer them ample opportunities. Running with the bulls is one event during the fest that is worth doing once in your life. If you wish to run right in front of the horny friends like some do, you will surely experience an adrenaline rush, but also it is a good way to get trampled. Note, in case you fall down during the run, choose to stay down. Allow the bulls trample over, till someone notices and picks you up. Well, getting trampled is less dangerous than actually getting yourself gored to death by the charging bulls. If you don’t want to get little bumped, watch the Running of the Bulls that is how the event is named, from a balcony for rent.

While San Fermin festival is not only about getting knocked down by the bulls at the Dead Man’s Corner (carefully chosen a name, indeed), Chupinazo, Riau-Riau, Struendo, Pobre de Mi, Saint Fermin procession and fireworks will heal your slightly beaten up body after the race. People are running in street during San Fermin festival History of The San Fermín Festival The San Fermin festival, held in Pamplona , Spain calls for the celebration of life, shared history, family and religion. The fiestas are celebrated every year continuing from 6th to 14th July in the region of Navarra. Although the festival is celebrated in the honour of San Fermin, the patron saint of Navarra, the religious aspect has taken up a secondary role in the last few years. These days, the fiestas are seen as the gathering of people hailing from different parts of the world to party and have fun. The celebration of the fiestas dates back to two different events of the medieval period. This includes commercial secular fairs held during summer, wherein cattle merchants came to the city with their animals for bullfighting. This was specifically documented in the 14th century.

And on the other hand are the religious ceremonies that were held on every October 10th to honour the saint. Well, it is in 1591 that these two events were culminated and transferred to 7th July. This marks the commencement of the San Fermines. Bulls and people are running in street during San Fermin festival Single Day Events in the Town Chupinazo: This is the opening of the festival marked by setting off a rocket (pyrotechnic chupinazo) at 12.00 noon on 6th of July from the city hall balcony. Since 1941, this tradition is being carried out to officially mark the beginning of the celebration. Riau-Riau: It a mass activity taking place on the same day (6th July). In here, the council members of the city parade from the City Hall to the chapel, which is dedicated to Saint Fermin. You can expect a spectacular view while the participants dance to the Austrian Waltz. This ritual was introduced by Ignacio Baleztena Ascarate in 1911.

Saint Fermin Procession: Held on 7th July, the procession of thousands of people accompanying 15th century Saint Fermin’s statue hits the key day of the festival. The statue is usually accompanied by street entertainers and political as well as religious authorities, which includes the city mayor. You can witness Jota (a traditional dance performed for the saint) and the gigantic dance and twirl when Maria, the cathedral bell, rings. Struendo: If you are all set to go haywire and shout until your heart is out, participate in this 50 years old event. People gather at the Town Hall at around 11.59 pm to make as much of noise possible for hours. They beat drums (of course, not beating their own drums), whistles and bowls to celebrate. Pobre de mi: It is a mournful note, meaning ‘Poor Me’ that is sung in the City Hall Plaza on 14th July at midnight after nine days of fun and partying. It is a kind of ritual done to mark the closing of the festival and hence ‘Poor Me’ is the note.

Pamplona Navarra Spain – Firmino fiesta band playing drums in front of the famous coffee IRUNA frequented by Hemingway Spanish school of samba fortaleza Daily Events during theSan FermínFestival Running of the Bulls: It has become an internationally acclaimed event and a subject to many documentaries and movies, where the bulls run through the old quarter’s street. The Encierro (the Running of the Bulls) takes place every day during the event (7th to 14th July) at the corral in the Calle Santo Domingo. As the clock strikes 8 in the morning, the bulls charge behind the participants (runners) for 825 meters. Even though the run usually lasts somewhere around three to four minutes, the time is sufficient for you to seek EMT (Emergency Medical Treatment). However, don’t tease these horny friends as they can actually change their directions and run after you. And the rest would be history! Be excited, but not so much that you compel the bull(s) take things personally and put up a fight with you.

Apart from being right on the field and getting almost to the death bed, you can choose to enjoy the spectacle from above (from a balcony, of course). But, for that, you might have to pay 75 Euros or so, which is worth spending. Fast, furious and dangerous; this is one event in the world, which you shouldn’t miss as it is likely to be outlawed in the future. Traditional Sports: Be sporty and become a part of the exhibition and competition of the Basque rural sports occurring in the Plaza de Los Fueros every morning. Sports include wood cutting, hay bale lifting and wood cutting. Bullfight or Fireworks or Both: Your Choice Of Course: Between July 6th and 14th, every afternoon a bullfight takes place, wherein six bulls that are driven to the bullring at the time of bull running are killed. While this might not be a treat to the eyes, fireworks held every night at the Citadel Park is a sight to die for. Opening of San Fermin festival How to Get There? Pamplona has an airport connected to several cities, including Madrid and Barcelona. Close by, there are international airports like Bilbao or Zaragoza.

There are direct flights from Madrid to Pamplona with Iberia airlines, so the most recommended way is to fly internationally into Madrid Barajas airport, and from there change flights directly to Pamplona. Otherwise, you can also take the bus or the Renfe train from Atocha station into Pamplona, which takes approximately 3 hours. Also, you can get to the town by train, bus or car from Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao and San Sebastian, etc. Fiesta de San Fermin | festival, Pamplona, Spain | Britannica.com festival, Pamplona, Spain Alternative Title: Festival of Saint Fermín Similar Topics Fiesta de San Fermín, ( Spanish: Festival of Saint Fermín) festival held annually in Pamplona , Spain , beginning at noon on July 6 and ending at midnight on July 14, honouring the city’s first bishop and patron saint , Saint Fermín. The running (encierro) of the bulls during the Fiesta de San Fermín, … © Blaine Harrington The festival was originally observed on Saint Fermín’s feast day, September 25, but in 1592 the celebration was moved to July.

Pamplona’s modern fiesta starts with fireworks called chupinazo at noon on July 6, followed by the singing of the traditional song “Pamploneses, Viva San Fermín, Gora San Fermín” (“People of Pamplona, Long Live Saint Fermín”). The best-known part of the festival is the running of the bulls, or the encierro . From July 7 to July 14 the bulls to be used in the daily bullfights are run through the streets of the town to the bullring. Both locals and tourists participate in the event, made famous in Ernest Hemingway ’s 1926 novel The Sun Also Rises. The bullfight, or corrida, is held every afternoon. In addition to the secular events, the Procession of Saint Fermín, a religious celebration, takes place the morning of July 7. Other events associated with the fiesta include the comparsa, a parade featuring large puppets carried by the marchers, as well as numerous parties and spontaneous gatherings. The festival ends on July 14 with the singing of “Pobre de Mi” (“Old Poor Me”). Learn More in these related articles:

Question: The 'running of the bulls' is part of the San Fermin Festival held in which Spanish city?
Answer: PAMPLONA