The festivals are seen by many as an important part of Portugal's tradition and history. Rather than a sport, bullfighting is seen as an art form and a cultural event, like a play or an opera.
Those who support the sport talk of the skill and agility that is displayed by those involved, especially the matadors and the cavaleiros.
Bullfighting is an established part of Portuguese and Spanish culture and supporters say that others should try to understand and respect this.