Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/sheep-migration-city-madrid/

When walking through the busy streets of Madrid, most would expect to see bustling people, heavy traffic, and perhaps a few bicycles or motorcycles in the mix.

Most of us wouldn’t expect to see thousands of farm animals traversing through the middle of the city, but that’s exactly what happens every year.

In adhering to tradition, shepherds guide their flocks to their winter grounds following ancient migration routes.

When the route was first established, the landscape didn’t look the same as it does today, in the middle of a city of 6.5 million+ people. Instead, it was likely peaceful countryside that the shepherds used.

Despite the change in landscape, Spanish law allows farmers to continue using ancient migration routes and in 1994, they decided to start doing it again.

According to Reuters, shepherds dress in traditional clothing and guide their flocks. They enjoy traditional folk music and dancing along the route as well.

People line the streets to watch the sheep pass through, and some bring their whole families to witness the spectacle.

Speaking with Reuters, Graciela Gonzalez said, “It’s marvellous. I come every year and this is the first year I’ve brought the children so it’s amazing.”

Watch the migration through Madrid in the video below:

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog