Here, before us, stands the Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou. It is more than just a bullring. It is a living testament to Palma’s rich history and vibrant culture.
The Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou is known locally as Coliseo Balear. This arena has a captivating story to tell. Inaugurated on July 21, 1929, it quickly became a landmark in the northern district of Palma. Gaspar Bennazar, a famous Mallorcan architect, designed this iconic structure.
Imagine the excitement on that inaugural day. The air crackled with anticipation. Spectators filled the 11,620 seats, eager to witness the first bullfight in the new arena. The Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou boasts four palcos, north, south, east, and west offering exclusive views of the spectacle. The ring itself measures an impressive 44.5 meters in diameter.
For decades, the Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou hosted thrilling bullfights. Renowned toreros like Luis Miguel Dominguín and Manuel Benítez “El Cordobés” graced its sands. Santiago Martín “El Viti” and Palomo Linares also showcased their skills here. The art of rejoneo, or equestrian bullfighting, was also a favorite. The Peralta brothers and others thrilled audiences.
But the Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou was not just about bullfighting. It also hosted wrestling matches. These matches drew large crowds. Comic-bullfighting shows called “bombero torero” entertained children.
Interestingly, bullfighting is not the most frequent use of the plaza. The Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou has become a premier concert venue. Numerous artists have performed here. Legends like Simply Red, Joe Cocker and the Scorpions have rocked the Coliseo Balear.
Think of the echoes of music bouncing off these walls. Mike Oldfield, Julio Iglesias and BB King once played here. Mark Knopfler, Dire Straits, Sting and Mecano also took the stage. More recently, Alejandro Sanz, Estopa, Amaral, Pablo Alborán and Miguel Bosé have entertained crowds. In 2006, Chenoa chose this venue for her “Contigo donde estés” DVD concert.
Beyond music, the Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou has hosted sporting events. An ATP tennis tournament took place here from 1999 to 2002. In 2004, it was the site of a Davis Cup quarterfinal match. The German TV show “Wetten, dass..?” also filmed here during the summer.
The Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou is deeply rooted in the history of Palma. The idea for a new bullring arose in 1915. This was meant to replace the old one from 1865. Construction began in 1928. In 1956, Exclusivas Balañá S.A. took over management.
The 1970s and 80s were a golden age for the plaza. Ángel Fernández held the exclusive operating rights. Today, the Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou is a protected part of Palma’s historical heritage. Though primarily known for sports and concerts, its history is etched in every stone. This arena stands as a versatile and iconic landmark.
So, as you stand before the Plaza de Toros Son Puigdorfila Nou remember its multifaceted past. From bullfights to concerts it represents the dynamic spirit of Palma de Mallorca.