Another controversy has erupted in Catalonia over traditional bull-related festivities. The municipality of Sant Jaume d’Enveja (Tarragona province) has been fined 600 euros for violating the rules of correbou—a local festival during which a bull with its horns tied was deliberately directed into a canal. The incident occurred in July 2025 during the town’s main festivities.
The decision to impose the sanction became public amid the correbou season in the Terres de l’Ebre region. During this time, Catalonia traditionally hosts mass bull events that spark fierce debates between animal rights advocates and supporters of local customs. Just a few days ago in the neighboring town of Deltebre, a man was injured after an encounter with a bull, once again raising concerns about the safety of such festivities.
The Association Against Animal Cruelty (ACTYMA) filed a complaint with the authorities regarding the actions of the correbou organizers in Sant Jaume d’Enveja. According to activists, the bull was not only tethered by the horns but was also deliberately taken off the designated route, which is prohibited by current legislation regulating traditional bull festivals. The law clearly states that the route may be changed only for justified reasons, and an attempt to ‘refresh’ the animal by bringing it into the water is not considered sufficient grounds. If a bull shows signs of fatigue, it must be immediately withdrawn from participation, animal rights advocates note.
The authorities of Catalonia have confirmed that they reviewed the complaint and completed an administrative investigation, finding the municipality guilty of violating regulations. The local administration responsible for organizing the festival was fined.
This year’s correbou season began amid tensions between tradition supporters and animal rights activists. Incidents have already been recorded in Sant Jaume d’Enveja: members of Animanaturalis reported that their volunteers had to be escorted by police while they tried to record videos of the event. According to activists, local residents obstructed filming and threatened members of animal protection organizations.
Traditional bull festivals remain the subject of intense debate in Catalonia. On one hand, they are considered part of the region’s cultural heritage; on the other, they face criticism from animal rights advocates, who demand stricter controls and bans on such events. Catalan authorities continue to review complaints and monitor compliance with the law to ensure the safety of both animals and festival participants.
In the coming weeks, new correbou events are scheduled in the region, and experts say that debates over these festivities are likely to continue. The question of whether animal-related traditions should be allowed remains one of the most hotly debated topics in Catalan society.
