Montera

Montera is a traditional hat associated with bullfighting in Spain and parts of the Spanish-speaking world. It is part of the formal bullfighter’s costume, known as the traje de luces. The montera is a soft, rounded cap, commonly made from fur such as astrakhan, and it is typically dark in color. Its silhouette is distinctive, featuring a low crown and two small protrusions on the top. The hat is worn as part of the ceremonial attire during performances, contributing to the pageantry of the event.

The design and use of the montera have varied over time, but it remains a recognizable emblem of bullfighting. It is usually paired with other elements of the traje de luces, including the short jacket, tight trousers, and decorative accessories, completing the traditional look of the matador and other participants.

Beyond bullfighting, the term montera appears in Spanish geography and culture. In Madrid, for example, Calle de la Montera is a central pedestrian street known for shopping and nightlife. The word can also appear as a surname and in cultural references related to Spain’s bullfighting heritage. In written and visual media, the montera often serves as a symbol of tradition, performance, and the complex social history surrounding bullfighting.