Known as one of the oldest saddle horses and most prestigious war horses throughout history, the Iberian horse was the foundation for the current day breed of the Andalusian and Lusitano. The Andalusian breed was a culmination of breeds mixing with the ancient Iberian horse as people and tribes traveled through the Andalusia province of Spain. Whereas the Lusitano breed was a culmination of breeds in the Lusitania region, now modern day Portugal, during the Roman period.
With dramatic features from their thick arched neck, and their beautiful and dramatic gates, Lusitanos and Andalusians are both known for their agility, strong hindquarters, noble temperaments, and dramatic mane and tails, but have several small differences originating from their history.
The Origin of Lusitano Breed Compared to the Andalusian Breed
Both the Lusitano and the Andalusian breed originate from the province of Andalusia in Spain and Portugal. Dating back to 30,000BC in the Iberian peninsula, there are cave paintings of prehistoric horses being ridden in war. The historic Iberian horse was known for being the world's most premier war horses for strength and agility.
The Andalusian breed was a culmination of different horses who traveled into the Iberian peninsula with the Celts of France, Carthaginians from North Africa, Moors, German tribes, and Romans. While the Lusitano breed originated from the same history, the breed was further bred in Portugal as a carriage horse and bullfighting horse.
In the 17th century, both the Andalusian and Lusitano breeds became the ‘royal horse of Europe’ for royalty and cavalry officers to ride as a sign of status. Riding academies were formed in Portugal, Spain, Austria, France, Italy, and Germany showcasing dressage, the form of riding with roots dating back to riding in battles.
“It is the noblest horse in the world, the most beautiful that can be. He is of great spirit and of great courage and docile; hath the proudest trot and the best action in his trot, the loftiest gallop, and is the lovingest and gentlest horse, and fittest of all for a king in his day of triumph." -Duke of Newcastle, 1667 on the Andalusian
It wasn’t until 1970’s that Spain and Portugal differentiated the Andalusian from the Lusitano by separating their stud books. The Iberian horse in Portugal was named Lusitano after the ancient Roman name for Portugal, Lusitana. The Lusitano horse was continued to be used and bred for bullfighting in Portugal, whereas bullfighting was banned in Spain in the the 70’s causing the Andalusians breed to shift focus onto dressage.
In Today’s Equine World: The Andalusian Breed Compared to the Lusitano Breed
Andalusians can be seen all over the world today for show and pleasure. They are well known in the dressage, jumping, driving, trail, western pleasure, and exhibition ring. Andalusians also make great family and pleasure horses due to their docile temperament. The Andalusian is ridden in Olympic dressage by the Spanish team.
Grandioso, American Owned Spanish Team Andalusian horse appearing in the 2016 Rio Olympic Dressage ring
Lusitanos are still used today for traditional Portuguese bullfighting, displaying their strength, agility, and responsiveness. Today the Lusitano is showcased in the annual Fair of Golega exemplifying traditional dressage movements. Lusitanos excel in the dressage ring, jumping, bullfighting, and exhibitions and shows. The portuguese olympic dressage team rode Lusitanos in the Olympics.
5 Lusitanos appeared in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Dressage ring. Pictured is Portugal's own Rodrigo Torres and horse Fogoso (Rico)
How to Experience Iberian Horse Classical Dressage
Book an experience at a equestiran dream getaway with Andalusian and Lusitano horses at one of our Cavago hosts.
1. Monte Velho, Portugal:
The Monte Velho Equo Resort is a boutique hotel located on a very successful Lusitano breeding farm and is an ideal base from which to experience world class dressage instruction with a touch of trail riding in the gorgeous countryside.
2. Morgado Lusitano, Lisbon Portugal:
Morgado Lusitano is an equestrian enthusiast’s dream destination. Ride magnificent Lusitano horses, trained to the highest standards in classical equitation, accompanied by world-renowned equestrian masters. Learn as a novice rider or come here to perfect your skills. This wonderful centre is the ideal location for a unique holiday experience, regardless of your riding level. Morgado Lusitano offers exceptional riding vacations and each package includes accommodation, meals and multiple lessons on their spectacular schoolmasters.
3. El Caballo de Espana, UK:
At El Caballo De España, you can find classical equitation with some of the finest Spanish horses in the UK. Renowned international dressage trainer, judge, performer and author Peter Madisson-Greenwell is based here. iImmerse yourself in the art and science of classical equitation at this outstanding facility.
4. The Royal Stables of Cordoba, Spain:
Steeped in history and culture dating back to 1570, Cordoba Ecuestre offers a unique chance to marvel at the beauty and magic of the Andalusian Horse or Pura Raza Española which show high school dressage along with a myriad of different disciplines and the skill of the riders. Nestled within the extraordinary setting of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this exquisite example of horsemanship and equestrian culture is every horse lover’s dream destination. Ride, learn, revel and marvel at this stunning example of equestrian excellence.
5. MPLusitanos Stud Farm, Portugal:
Set in the stunning countryside of Almeirim in Portugal, MPlusitanos are a cut above with their fantastic horses. For the serious equestrian who pursues excellence, MPlusitanos is the destination of choice.
6. Yeguada Cartuja, Spain:
Experience the epitome of the Andalusian horse and culture in Jerez, Spain, known for some of the finest horses the world over. The Carthusian Andalusian or Cartujano is generally considered the purest Andalusian strain, and has one of the oldest recorded pedigree lines in the world. La Yeguada de la Cartuja-Hierro Del Bocado is famous for some of the finest bloodlines associated with the magnificent Andalusian horse, be a part of living history!
7. Lusitanos Riding Centre, Portugal:
Discover the magnificence of thoroughbred Lusitano horses in their native Portugal. Lusitanos Riding Centre is nestled in the lush and rugged Portuguese countryside just one hour north of Lisbon. The elegant soul of the Lusitano Horse pulses through this centre where you are supported by top-class trainers to build trust with your horse. Learn and succeed in even the most difficult of techniques.
8. Pateo Lusitano, Portugal:
Learn to ride in the serenity of the countryside at Páteo Lusitano, located in Malveira, Portugal, where you will be provided with the best conditions for you and your horse in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, they also have other services to offer such as horse accommodation, horse initiation and equestrian internships.
9.Hotel Madre de Agua, Portugal:
Ride homebred Lusitanos in a dressage lesson or on the trail. The stud is a major feature of the property, the finest bloodlines are trained by master horseman, Nuno Carvalho.
For help booking your next equestrian adventures, contact Cavago at support@mycavago.com
Photo & Information Resources:
Cave Paintings
History of the Andalusian
https://www.dakotawindsandalusians.com/breedhistory.html
History of the Lusitano
https://www.lusitanohorsefinder.com/the-history-of-the-lusitano/
Lusitano & Andalusian's in the Olympics
https://www.horsemagazine.com/thm/2021/07/lusitano-star-in-tokyo/
