The Lusitano Horses
The Lusitano Horse Breed dates from before Roman times and is considered to be one of the oldest and rarest Breeds in the World.
They were the most sought after horses for the military because of their strength, stamina and athletic frame, together with their ‘easygoing’ nature. Later they became status symbols of the rich and powerful and many were owned by Royalty and the Aristocracy.
The Lusitano Horse is closely related to the Spanish Andalusian Horse and until the 1960’s were often thought to be one breed called ‘Iberian’. It was in 1966 that the Portuguese breed were renamed ‘Lusitano’ after ‘Lusitania’ the ancient Roman name for ‘Portugal’!
Today in Portugal, the modern Lusitano horse is still regarded as a great status symbol and many ride and train their own horses to the highest competition levels.
One of the big Lusitano Horse stud farm is in Portugal and established since 1981 is situated just half an hour or so from Casa Rosden at Quinta das Arribas, near Abrantes. Click on the picture above for website, information and exact location.
Of course Golegã , just 25minutes away, has always been the main meeting and trading place for these famous Portuguese horses. The “Feira Nacional do Cavalo”, which takes in October each year is a must place to visit if you are here in October. See our page on Golegã for more details.
