Spanish Riding School Tickets and Information
- Spanish Riding School Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010, Vienna
- Opening Hours: Daily from 09:00 - 16:00
Is Horse Training at Spanish Riding School Worth Visiting
- We definitely think so, yes. It’s an incredible experience to watch their training.
What You See At Horse Training at Spanish Riding School
- The training session with the world famous Lipizzaner stallions where the riders are with their horses and going through the routines.
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About Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is one of the most iconic institutions in Austria, famous for its Lipizzaner horses and incredible classical dressage performances.
Founded in 1572, it’s the oldest riding school in the world and continues to preserve the tradition of the Renaissance riding art of the 'Haute École', which it performs in the Hofburg Palace in the heart of Vienna.
The school is renowned for its Lipizzaner stallions, which are bred specifically for their performances in classical dressage. The horses, which are characterised by their graceful movements, are trained for years in order to perform the intricate manoeuvres that are both a display of their strength and elegance.
Ways of watching Spanish Riding School Performances
- Morning Exercise: You can watch the Lipizzaner horses during their morning exercise sessions, which usually includes light dressage work accompanied by classical music. This gives a glimpse into the daily training routines of the horses.
- Guided Tours: The school offers guided tours of its facilities, including the Winter Riding School arena, stables, and tack rooms. The tours provide insight into the history of the school, the architecture of the Hofburg Palace, and the care and training of the horses.
- Performances: The highlight of any visit is attending a classical dressage performance, where the Lipizzaners showcase their skills in a series of choreographed routines set to music. The performances, which are often referred to as "ballets with horses," include impressive movements like the Piaffe, Levade, and Capriole.
- Architectural Tour: For guests that are interested in architecture, we also offer an architectural tour of the Spanish Riding School with a professional guide.
The Spanish Riding School is a living tradition that has preserved the art of classical dressage for centuries. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or simply interested in Vienna’s cultural heritage, a visit to the Spanish Riding School offers a unique and memorable experience.
Other Nearby Attractions
- Hofburg Palace: The Hofburg Palace is the former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty.
- Albertina Museum: Just a short walk away, the museum offers an extensive collection of art from various periods.