We toured the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. The guide was knowledgeable and patiently answered all of our questions. Sarah started reading Elizabeth Letts’ book and quickly became engrossed in the history of the Lipizzan (alt. Lipizzaner) during the 20th century.
Having read Jojo Moyes’ novel, “The Horse Dancer” a few years ago, it was captivating to tour these stables. Photos were not permitted inside the stables, because previous tourists have posted irresponsible pictures on social media. These animals are under the best care, with regular rotations between training, countryside vacations, and performing.
Stallions arrive to the school from their country stable around the age of four. That’s right – the first FOUR years of their lives are spent frolicking in fields, simply being horses! They gain natural strength from living free in herds doing natural horse stuff. They make friends with other horses. They spend time as foals with their mamas.
If selected to train in Vienna, they are assigned to a rider who then spends the rest of their life devoted to the care of that specific horse. Each rider has 4-5 horses in their care. Sequential training takes 6-8 years (!) before a horse is ready to perform. And horses then retire from performance between 18-24 years of age. They live out retirement back on the farm, enjoying a pampered life.
The bond between rider and horse is exceptional. No coercion is used. The stallion must want to work with the rider. The rider is there to invite the horse to perform and to ensure the health and care of the horse.
Permission for this photo was granted by the tour guide.
Where in the world are the Gills? 