Spanish Riding School
Equestrian art at a world-class level

Since 1 December 2022, Dr Alfred Hudler has been at the helm of the Spanish Riding School and the Lipizzaner Stud Farm in Piber. His role is to ensure that tradition, horse welfare, and economic sustainability are all preserved.

The Spanish Riding School was established in the 16th century under the Habsburgs. Ferdinand I and Maximilian II laid the foundations, with the year 1565, marked by the construction of the Stallburg in Vienna, considered the official founding date. The breeding of Lipizzaners began in 1580 with the Imperial Stud at Lipica. There is no single founder; instead, it was the result of various rulers’ efforts and historical developments.

The Spanish Riding School is situated in the Michaeler Wing of the Vienna Hofburg, right in the heart of Vienna. It is easily accessible and just a short walk from St Stephen’s Cathedral.

The name “Spanish Riding School” refers to the origin of the horses brought to the Viennese court in the 16th century. Ferdinand I, who grew up in Spain, was the first to introduce Andalusian horses to Vienna.

At the time, the Habsburgs ruled over Spain, Naples, and Austria, promoting cultural exchange across their empire. Riding traditions from Spain were adopted and further developed through Austrian horse breeding. As early as 1562, Maximilian II, Ferdinand’s son, began breeding Spanish horses in Austria.

The terms “Spanish Riding Hall” or “Spanish Riding Stable” were used early on, referring to the Iberian heritage of the horses. Although only Lipizzaners are used today, whose roots include Spanish, Arabian, and Berber lines, the historical name has been preserved.

In the Winter Riding School, performances accompanied by classical music are offered in three formats: 45, 70, and 90 minutes. You can experience Caprioles, School Quadrille, Pas de Deux, and work on the long rein.

Traditionally, at least one bay stallion is kept at the Spanish Riding School as a good luck charm. This custom is rooted in old superstitions and tradition. As Lipizzaners are born dark and gradually turn white, the dark stallion also serves as a reminder of the breed’s original colouring. This practice preserves a piece of history and symbolically brings good fortune to the school and its horses.

By the late 18th century, white coats became the preferred colour for breeding due to aesthetic preferences. The white coat is genetically dominant, making dark-coloured horses rare exceptions today.

Horses that are not selected during inspection are offered for sale – including partially trained young horses and breeding animals with solid basic training.