Spanish horses - southern, stylish elegance on the march
A warm climate, a high level of hospitality and the traditional flamenco speak for a country that presents itself as warm-hearted as it is passionate. Spain is not only a popular holiday destination, Spanish horse breeds also make our hearts beat faster.
In recent years, a large wave of equine immigration of the noble Andalusian horses has spilled over into our latitudes. With the baroque riding style and the teaching of old riding masters, more and more Spanish horses are finding their way into our home stables. For one thing cannot be denied: These breeds are wealthy dressage horses in a class of their own!
"Andalusian" is only a generic term
Many people speak of the Andalusian. This title is not wrong in principle. However, it must be pointed out that only horses that are recognised by the Spanish breeding association and have papers may belong to the breed "P.R.E". This abbreviation stands for Pura Raza Española (Pure Spanish Breed). Horses of this type are those whose sire and dam are registered in the studbook. This is a closed studbook. Representatives of other breeds, animals of undetermined origin or without a P.R.E. certificate are not included. So: Watch out when buying a horse!
Spanish blood was not only appreciated as a noble riding horse. PRE horses were also involved in the development of some of our warmblood breeds. Lippizaner, Gelderländer, Friesian and heavy cold-blooded breeds (e.g. Boulonnais) even now bear characteristics of their southern ancestors.
Iberian horses themselves are descended from hardy Sorraia wild horses and Berbers from the Islamic region.