This week an episode on Spain's most controversial tradition, bullfighting.

During the show I attend a 'corrida' at Madrid's Las Ventas bullring with a Spanish friend to see this ancient spectacle in the flesh. I didn't enjoy or agree with what I witnessed, that I expected. But I wanted to see if I could understand why others are so passionate about it.  A few things surprised me about the bullfight.

In the episode I also attempt to trace the origins and history of the Spanish bullfight and look at the state of bullfighting in Spain today, popularity, legality, politics and funding. I also examine the arguments from those who are for and against.

What's the future for this notoriously bloody ritual of man versus animal?

La Ventas, Madrid

Share your thoughts on bullfighting on the When in Spain Facebook page and group here