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King Felipe II (16th century), one of the most important kings in the history of Spain, was a great lover of horses and nature. The King even had several residences in the mountains and forests near Madrid where he spent long periods admiring and studying nature.
As a horse lover, one of his obsessions was to achieve the perfect horse breed. It is with this idea in mind that he created the Royal Stables in Cordoba (1570). Felipe II wanted to create a new breed of horse; stronger, more powerful, and more agile. The best veterinarians and specialists in the country began to work to satisfy the King’s wishes. This is the way the Andalusian Horse, also known as the Pure Spanish Horse, was born.
Of course, this new breed of horse gave a competitive advantage to the Spanish armies. However, shortly after, the kings of Spain used the Pure Spanish Horse as a tool of diplomacy; monarchs and nobles from all over Europe wanted to own and ride this new breed of Spanish horse. These horses were the closest thing to buying a Ferrari in the 16th and 17th century 😊
The fame of Spanish horses reached such a point that at the end of the 16th century opened the Spanish Riding School in Vienna (Austria). This institution continues to exist and today is one of the symbols of Vienna.
Today the Andalusian horses number almost 200,000
The Royal Stables in Cordoba are a small complex of several interconnected buildings. From the outside, the Royal Stables look restrained and military in style. But they are stunning inside. The most interesting parts for travelers to explore are:
This part of the Royal Stables is where the horses train their exercises. The perfect synchronization between horse and rider requires long training sessions and discipline. The floor here is made of yellow-ochre pipeclay.
From an architectural point of view, this part of the stables is amazing. There is a long center hallway and horse boxes on either side. Special mention should be made of the cross-vaulted ceilings. In a few words, I can safely say that these stables in Cordoba will be among the most majestic you will ever see.
Nowadays, this part of the building is a carriage museum. In total, 15 beautiful 19th horse-drawn carriages.
This indoor riding arena is a mid-size quadrangular space bounded by four walls. One of the walls has large windows that let sunlight in.
Multi-level bleachers allow spectators to take their seats during the equestrian show that takes place in this part of the stables.
It does not matter if you are a horse-riding lover or have never seen a horse, this equestrian show is really worth it and will make you understand the role of horses in Andalusian culture and history.
During the show, you will be able to admire the elegant movement and intelligence of the Andalusian horse. Rider and horse seem linked by an invisible rope.
The show combines different riding schools, fundamentally classic and Andalusian. But, of course, we are in Andalusia and flamenco cannot be absent; the show includes several dances featuring a flamenco dancer.
Calle Caballerizas Reales, 1, Cordoba
Visit Royal Horse Stables of Cordoba
Tue- Sat: 10:00- 13:30 & 14:00-20:00.
Sun- Mon & bank holidays: 10:00-13:30.
Equestrian show Royal Stables Cordoba
Wed- Sat: 20:00.
Free entrance
Premium: 21,50€
General: 16,50€
Children (3-12 y.o.): €9,5
Children (under 3 y.o.): free entrance
It is very important to buy tickets well in advance
16th century (Christian period)
– Fortress of the Christian Kings: 650 meters (711 yards)
-La Corredera Square: 950 meters (1039 yards)
-Square of the Colt: 650 meters (711 yards)
-Las Tendillas Square: 700 meters (765,5 yards)
-Roman Bridge: 400 meters (437 yards)
-Caliphate Bath: 500 meters (547 yards)
