Spanish Riding School
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 precision of the Lipizzaners’ movements in harmony with the music offers spectators an unforgettable experience.
Committed to tradition
The Spanish Riding School is one of Vienna’s oldest institutions. Its history dates back to 1565, when a riding arena at today’s Josefsplatz was first mentioned under the Habsburgs. It owes its name to the noble Spanish horses that were brought to Vienna by the Habsburgs and later became the foundation of the famous Lipizzaner breed.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Spanish Riding School developed into a center of classical equestrian art. The now world-famous Winter Riding Hall was built between 1729 and 1735 under Emperor Charles VI. To this day, it is considered one of the most beautiful riding halls in the world.
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Video Spanish Riding School Vienna
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.
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).
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
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
In which year was the Spanish Riding School founded?
The Spanish Riding School was founded in 1565, when a riding arena at today’s Josefsplatz was first mentioned under the Habsburgs.
Which horses live at the Spanish Riding School?
It is home to the famous white Lipizzaners. They have a strong yet elegant build. Lipizzaners are quick to learn and are suited to demanding dressage.
Why is it called the “Spanish” Riding School?
The name goes back to the Spanish horses that were brought to the Viennese court in the 16th century. The Lipizzaners were bred from crosses of Spanish, Italian, and other European horses.
What is the Lipizzaners’ morning exercise?
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.
- Michaelerplatz 1 (Besucherzentrum/Visitor Center), 1010 Wien
- www.srs.at
-
+43 1 533 90 31 0 (Infohotline)
- office@srs.at
Vienna City Card
5 % discount in the store on presentation of the VCC
Discount is valid on the training. Reduced ticket only available on site.
Highseason: April - October and December
Seated: Standard ticket price: 20 € (Savings: 2 €)
Standing place: Standard ticket price: 18 € (Savings: 2 €)
Off season: January - March and November
Seated: Standard ticket price: 19 € (Savings: 2 €)
Standing place: Standard ticket price: 17 € (Savings: 2 €)
Opening times
- Mo - Su, 09:00 - 16:00
Accessibility
Parking spaces for people with disabilities
in the Inner Courtyard
Accessible toilet
Request for wheelchair spaces at morning exercises, tours or performances (prices and availability) must be made by email: office@srs.at.
