The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in the world where the classic equestrian skills (haute école) has been preserved and is still practiced in its original form. Many years of training fuse horse and rider into an inseparable unit. The audience is treated to an unforgettable experience by the precision of movement of the Lipizzan horses in perfect harmony with the music.

In the course of gala performances, visitors experience unique presentations of the Lipizzans in the most beautiful riding hall in the world, which was impressively outfitted by baroque architect Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach between 1729 and 1735. It was originally built to provide aristocratic youths with the opportunity to take riding instruction. Since December 2015, the horsemanship of the Spanish Riding School has been classified as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

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Morgenarbeit – daily training at the Spanish Riding School

The Morgenarbeit, or morning training, offers an insight into the years of practice that the riders have put in with their Lipizzaner stallions. This involves simple relaxation exercises as well as drills to refine and perfect a particular technique. Every rider is responsible for the training of their own horse. Natural movements are transformed into perfect Riding School routines through targeted strengthening of specific muscles.

The traditional jumps are not practiced every day and are therefore only seen occasionally during morning training. Immediately after dismounting, there is a well-earned reward – a treat from the tail bag.

You can check the dates of performances and morning training sessions and find out more about buying tickets at www.srs.at. The Café at the Spanish Riding School invites you to enjoy coffee and tasty treats from Tuesday to Sunday (9 am to 5 pm).

More about the Hofburg

MYPERFECTDAY in Vienna: Spend an imperial day with Hannah, "Bereitanwärterin".

• Guided Tours Spanish Horse Riding School
• Architectural Tours Spanish Horse Riding School
• The Lipizzans' Performances