Video | Thousands of sheep cross the streets of Madrid as they migrate to the winter pastures

Weather of Arabia - Sheep invaded the streets of Madrid on Sunday (October 23) and replaced cars in a tradition that residents await every year, as shepherds take the old grazing routes with their flocks, passing through the center of the Spanish capital, Madrid, to the winter pastures in the south of the country.

Locals and tourists lined the roadsides to watch the thousands of sheep walk through the city. The event has been commemorated annually since 1994 as part of the annual Fiesta de la Trachomanica in Madrid, after the Spanish parliament recognized the traditional ways of herders on their way to herd their cattle in winter.

Just a few centuries ago, the road would take them through quiet countryside, but today it makes sheep traverse some of the city's busiest areas, including the Plaza Mayor, Madrid's famous main square.

Many were surprised by the unexpected scene in a city that usually suffers from traffic jams and pedestrians.

The sheep walked amid the ringing of the bells hanging around their necks. Shepherds wore traditional clothes and led their flocks, playing folk music and dancing.

The children, who are used to the city's traffic, enjoyed the opportunity to see the animals and get close to them.