The Lusitano
The world's best saddle horse
For centuries, the Lusitano horse has been known as "The sons of the wind". Discover the Lusitano, Portugal's ambassador to the equestrian world. This breed's versatility and talent elevate riding to an art form. Our goal is to provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Lusitano, offering experiences that are both enriching and transformative.
The Lusitano is one of the world’s oldest saddle horse breeds, with a history tracing back to 3000 BC. Initially bred for war and farm work, the breed reached its pinnacle during the 18th century. During this time, the Royal Stud of Alter do Chão was founded, where Lusitanos were carefully bred to serve the royal family, both in grand equestrian displays and as noble mounts for leisure and entertainment.
The modern Lusitano combines centuries of versatility with a sportier edge. Renowned for excelling in dressage, working equitation, and classical riding, it stands out for its natural agility, balance, and grace.
With a calm temperament and strong, compact build, the Lusitano is equally suited to leisure riding and high-level training. Its responsiveness, intelligence, and willingness to learn make it both a reliable partner for beginners and an ideal schoolmaster for advancing riders.
Brave and noble, the Lusitano moves with proud elegance, each step like a dance. Steeped in Portuguese tradition, it’s more than a horse; it’s a living symbol of national heritage. Known for its beauty, loyalty, and versatility, the Lusitano remains one of the world’s most admired riding horses.
There is one principle that should never be abandoned, namely, that the rider must learn to control himself before he can control his horse. This is the basic, most important principle to be preserved in equitation.
Alois Podhajsky