The purebred spanish horse
Discover the long tradition of equestrian tourism
Visiting Spain means discovering the long tradition of equestrian tourism in this country, which even has a totally unique breed of horse. The Purebred Spanish horse, also known as the Andalusian horse, is a global horse-riding treasure that has been refined over centuries. Today, Spain is home to equestrian competitions, shows and exhibitions, many of which you can attend and see this magnificent animal.
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Its history
Its lineage dates back to the prehistoric horses that inhabited the Iberian Peninsula and evolved alongside the country’s great historical milestones, such as the Roman conquests, the arrival of the Arabs and the influence of the great European stables. A symbol of nobility and power, this horse has served as a mount for knights.
In royal ceremonies and over the centuries it has featured in paintings, poems and novels. As a result, the Purebred Spanish horse is a beautiful and elegant animal that shines in dressage.
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See a Purebred Spanish up close
It is said that King Philip II decided to build the Royal Stables of Cordoba in the 16th century in order to create a new breed of "perfect horses". Centuries later, you can still visit these stables to see the evening equestrian show "Passion and Spirit of the Andalusian Horse”. This is a unique opportunity to be amazed at the beauty and magic of these animals that exhibit different disciplines and at the mastery of the riders and horsewomen. This is also accompanied by music prepared for the occasion and dance numbers that blend dance with the horses' exercises.
And in Andalucía, the city of Jerez offers shows by the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. In fact, all over Spain there are several festivals where you can see riders in traditional costumes and magnificent horses, such as the Romería del Rocío in Huelva, the Horse Fair in Jerez de la Frontera, the Caballada in Atienza, the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Horse Races on the beach, the festivals of San Juan de Ciudadela in Menorca, etc.
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Main competitions in Spain
In addition to the aforementioned traditional festivals where you can see these magnificent specimens, Spain hosts renowned equestrian fairs that attract riders and horse lovers from across the world.
International Horse Fair (SICAB)
Held in Seville (Andalusia), it is one of the most important equestrian fairs in the world. It is dedicated to the purebred Spanish horse and it also features horse exhibitions, competitions, equestrian shows and a large trade fair.
Trofeu Ciutat de Barcelona
This is a major event in the Spanish equestrian calendar. Organised by the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona (Catalonia), it includes show jumping and dressage competitions, as well as exhibitions and activities related to the world of horses.
Trofeo Infanta Elena
This is a dressage competition held at the Real Club Pineda in Seville. It is one of the most important dressage competitions in Spain and attracts top riders, both national and international.
