» Events
Since
primeval times the curve of the bull horns - "cornua
lunae" – has stood as a symbol of the crescent
moon, which grows and decreases rhythmically. Whoever kills
the moon animal might therefore attain power over birth and
death – this was the myth of the ancient Mithras’
cult, where the god was worshipped as "sol invictus",
the invincible sun. This power, associated with the sun, to
vanquish the symbol of the moon (and so over death and new
birth) is the innermost motivation of the toreros, and the
desire of the public that cheer him on.
Northern Europeans often have difficulty accepting this mythological justification and look rather upon bull fighting as a form of public butchery, which is made possible only by the looseness of the animal protection laws of their southern neighbours.
Nevertheless you should not miss these wonderfully vibrant popular celebrations in Spain and Southern France. You can make a large D-tour around the arena, and there is still so much to see and experience that you will certainly not go to bed before dawn, and you will surely dream about the empassioned melodies of a Flamenco or gypsy band. There is an enormous selection of events to choose from, including the multicoloured “Feria de Caballo”, the famous “Feria de Abril”, the “Feria de Cordoba” or the world-known bull race of Pamplona.
Further suggestions, and directions about how to get there and find a place to sleep in a comfy bed, albeit during the day, can be found on this web site.
» Events
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"As a European I welcome the publication of this Top 500 Events guide. It's really much more. It's an encyclopaedia of regional traditions and customs in Europe , and a valuable journey planner for every European citizen. It will be my vademecum on trips throughout Europe in future.
I hope that you too will derive plenty of enjoyment from the guide, and that it will help to bring Europe still a little closer together."
Jacques Santer
Former Prime Minister of Luxemburg
Former President of the European Commission
