Monumento al Encierro (Running of the Bulls Monument), Pamplona (must see)

The Running of the Bulls Monument stands as a striking tribute to the exhilarating tradition of the Sanfermines running of the bulls in Pamplona. Crafted by the renowned Bilbao sculptor Rafael Huerta, the monument was inaugurated on July 6, 1994, and later expanded in 2007 to its current impressive form. Realistically capturing the expressiveness and dynamism of the bull runs, the monument portrays a hectic moment where runners are overtaken by charging bulls, encapsulating the adrenaline-fueled intensity of the event.

Composed of bronze, the sculptural group features nineteen figures, including six powerful bulls by Victorino Martín, three halteros, and ten runners. Stretching 11 meters in length and 4 meters in width, the monument stands atop a reinforced concrete pedestal, creating a harmonious and impactful composition. The extension added in 2007 was based on the original sculpture from 1994, which depicted only two runners and one bull. At the request of the Pamplona City Council, Rafael Huerta expanded the monument to better capture the essence of the event.

Huerta's vision for the Running of the Bulls Monument aimed to freeze a moment of frenetic action and stampede, conveying the essence of the bull runs with remarkable detail and emotion. Notably, the sculptor included a self-portrait lying on the ground within one of the corridors, adding a personal touch to the artwork. Originally, the monument featured representations of specific individuals, including Julen Madina and councilor Ignacio Pérez Cabañas, both San Fermín runners. However, due to social pressure, their likenesses were removed, leaving the identities of the remaining runners anonymous, symbolizing the collective spirit and universal appeal of the Sanfermines tradition.