36 participants evacuated from Pamplona bull run

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The final bull-running event took place in Pamplona, Spain, on Sunday. Traditionally, the bravest try to get as close as possible to the bulls, which can result in dozens of injuries. In total, at least 36 runners were hospitalized during the San Fermin celebrations that began last Saturday, Spanish media reported.

Seven runners were injured on Sunday alone. Participants often flee with bruises. The nine-day San Fermin celebrations are best known for the running of the bulls in the streets of Pamplona.

The city festival dates back to the Middle Ages and includes concerts, religious processions, fireworks and parties until the early hours of the morning. Famous American author Ernest Hemingway immortalized the festival in his 1926 novel The Sun Also Rises.

The San Fermin festivities attract visitors from all over the world, who seem particularly fascinated by the running of the bulls (or “encierros”). Every morning at 8am, six bulls are released and must race through 850 metres of cobblestone streets.

Traditionally, the bravest try to get as close to the bull as possible. Since 1911, at least 16 people have died, the last in 2009. Every year, dozens of people are injured in the riots or from rough contact with one of the animals.