Madrid deluged by huge flock of migrating sheep

Hundreds of years ago, northern Spanish farmers would have traversed a much smaller, quainter Madrid as they herded their flocks of sheep toward the warmer winter meadows in the south. An agreement dating back to 1418 allows them to cross the city for a small fee. On Sunday, the bustling streets came to a standstill so the sheep could pass through.

The medieval tradition, giving farmers a rite of passage through the city, was renewed in 1994 with an annual festival that has become a major attraction for locals and tourists alike. Shepherds stop at the town hall to pay 50 "maravedies" — copper coins first minted in the 11th century — as payment for the crossing.

The Trashumancia sheep parade starts in the Casa de Campo, a former royal hunting ground that is now Madrid's largest park, then makes its way through the Puerta del Sol — the main square -— and finally past the Bank of Spain's headquarters.

The passage for the sheep was a timely reminder of the urban sprawl that threatens ancient grazing and migration rights. Much of Madrid was once undeveloped countryside, with woodland and grazing space that would have allowed a simpler passage for the flock.

Sunday's marching of around 2,000 sheep and goats was accompanied by musicians and dancers dressed in regional costumes that have been worn by rural workers for centuries.