The Lusitano
The world's best saddle horse
For centuries, the Lusitano horse has been known as "The sons of the wind"
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 has not only evolved to be more sport-oriented but has also retained the versatility that has defined it for centuries. Whether excelling in disciplines like dressage, working equitation, or classical riding, the Lusitano's natural agility and grace shine through.
Its gentle temperament makes it a favorite for leisure riding, while its strength and noble lineage have made it one of the most prized breeds globally. With a sturdy, compact build, the Lusitano offers exceptional balance and responsiveness, making it an ideal mount for beginners and the perfect schoolmaster for developing riders. Its intelligence and willingness to learn also make it highly adaptable to various training styles, further enhancing its appeal.
Brave and noble, the Lusitano moves with a sense of pride and elegance, almost as if performing a dance to delight its rider. Deeply rooted in Portuguese culture and tradition, the Lusitano is not just a horse but a symbol of national heritage. Its beauty, loyalty, and versatility have earned it a reputation as one of the finest and most cherished riding horses in the world.
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