The walk

In the vibrant and controversial world of bullfighting, the paseíllo emerges as a ritual dance full of symbolism and bravery. This prelude to the bullfighter’s work is not just a procession to the bullring, but an artistic expression rooted in the rich tradition of bullfighting.

What is the parade?

The paseíllo, which literally translates to “walk” in Spanish, is much more than a formal entrance of the bullfighters into the arena. It is a ceremonial parade where the bullfighters, dressed in richly ornamented suits of lights, walk with grace and determination from the pens to the center of the ring. This ephemeral but momentous moment, full of solemnity and tension, marks the beginning of a deadly dance between man and beast. Each step of the paseíllo is precisely choreographed. The bullfighters advance in a line, carrying their capes with elegance, while the crowd watches with a mix of expectation and respect. Music, often a paso doble, envelops the atmosphere, adding a melodic touch to the intensity that is to come. This ritual, although stylized and traditional, contains a fascinating duality. On the one hand, it represents the deep connection with the cultural roots and ancestral history of bullfighting. On the other hand, it is the prelude to a visceral confrontation between man and bull, where art and skill intertwine with brute force and unpredictability. The parade also serves as the presentation of the bullfighters to the public, offering fans the opportunity to appreciate the unique personality of each bullfighter. Every gesture, every glance, contributes to the construction of the emotional narrative that will unfold in the arena.

Image by Servitoro

How should the parade be conducted?

Here are some of the common rules associated with the paseíllo in bullfighting:

1. Specific Attire: Bullfighters wear suits of lights, traditional costumes richly decorated with sequins and embroidery. These costumes are usually brightly colored and are designed to catch the attention of the public and the bull.
2. Entry Order: Bullfighters enter the bullring in a specific order. The first to enter is the “torero”, followed by the “banderilleros” and finally the “picadores”. The order is not random, as the participants with the most seniority enter the ring first.
3. Solemn Parade:
   • The paseíllo is a solemn procession from the pens to the centre of the ring. During this parade, the bullfighters usually wear capes and perform ceremonial gestures such as greeting the president and the public.
4. Musical Accompaniment:
   • The parade is accompanied by music, typically a paso doble. The soundtrack adds an artistic and emotional element to the entrance of the bullfighters, creating a unique atmosphere in the ring.
5. Greetings to the President:
   • Before the bullfight begins, bullfighters usually salute the president of the ring. This gesture is a sign of respect towards the authorities and a tradition rooted in bullfighting etiquette.
6. Ceremonial Behavior:
   • During the parade, bullfighters are expected to maintain a ceremonial and respectful demeanor. Seriousness and dignity are important aspects of this ritual that precedes the bullfight.