Bullfights have continued in Bogota since Colombia gained independence from Spain in 1819. It is one of few Latin American countries where the original (most brutal) form of the sport is still practiced. But not without controversy. Animal rights activists decry the sport’s cruelty and call for its cessation. The fervent fan base fills the Plaza Santamaria, especially on Sundays during the January/February peak of the bullfight season when the best toreros fight the biggest bulls.