Vienna Attractions
A Spanish Riding School Lipizzaner in Vienna Austria © BrianScott
Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School of Vienna is the oldest and last
riding school in the world where classic dressage is still
practised in its purest form. This Institute was founded in 1572
and named for the Lipizzaner horses, which are of Spanish origin.
The Imperial Court Stud was originally situated near the village of
Lipizza (hence the name of the horses) but since the collapse of
the Danube Monarchy in 1920 they have been bred at the Federal Stud
in Styria. The horses perform their tricks in the Winter Riding
School, which was commissioned by Emperor Karl VI. Performances
take place between February and June, September and December but
are in high demand and booked up months in advance (details on
their website). The easiest way to see the horses is during their
training sessions. Tickets are only available at the door, and
cannot be booked in advance. Situated in the stables is the
Lipizzaner Museum, which displays the history of the school.
Address: Michaelerplatz 1;
Website: www.spanische-reitschule.com;
Telephone: (0)1 533 9031;
Transport: U-Bahn to Herrengasse, or tram D, J, 1 or 2 to Burgring;
Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 4pm;
Admission: Prices vary according to season, attraction and seating options; see website for details.
