The old continent has always had a great equestrian tradition. A clear example is Spain. During the times of monarch Philip II, the most impressive stables of the era were built in the city of Córdoba. These were used solely for the breeding of the Spanish Purebred Horse PRE. This breed is the most emblematic of the country, but it is not the only one, as Spanish horse breeds are very diverse, and below, we will explore them in detail.

Spanish Purebred (PRE)

It is also known as the Andalusian horse. It originates from the Andalusia region and is highly valued worldwide for its particular beauty and disciplined character. This horse breed is one of the oldest in the world. So much so that during the 16th and 18th centuries, it could be found in most of the stables of monarchs and nobles across Europe. At that time, they were considered the best for war and parades.

This Iberian horse of the Baroque type has played a very important role in the formation of other breeds, such as: the Hispano-Arabian, the Bretón, the Lusitano, and the Mustang, to name a few.

PRE horses are characterized by being muscular. They have a medium-sized torso and head, and a harmonious top line. Their lifespan ranges from 20 to 35 years. They are very obedient and docile animals. All these qualities make them ideal for riding and classical dressage.

Asturcón

The Asturcón pony is a horse with a height of less than 1.47 meters. Its weight is below average, and it has a shorter build. It has inhabited mountainous regions since ancient times, from the Cantabrian mountains to the Western Pyrenees. The Asturians used these horses for riding and draft work.

Galician Purebred

It comes from the mountainous areas of Galicia. The height at the withers of Galician Purebred horses ranges from 1.20 meters to 1.40 meters. Their weight varies between 165 and 300 kilograms. It is used as a saddle horse.

Hispano-Bretón

It is the result of the crossbreeding between French Breton stallions and Spanish mares. Their height ranges from 1.55 to 1.65 meters. They weigh approximately between 700 and 900 kilograms. Currently, they have many uses. For example, they are in charge of dragging the royal battery, part of the Royal Guard escort.

Hispano-Arabian

This is the result of crossing an Arabian horse with Andalusian horses. It has a stocky appearance, but its silhouette is slender and tall. It is widely used in jumping competitions, equestrian marches, and in training.

Losino

It is the only Spanish horse breed originating from the region of Castilla y León. It is a small animal. Its height at the withers ranges from 1.35 to 1.40 meters. Its average weight is between 330 and 350 kilograms. It is suitable for youth riding and as a parade horse on mountainous routes.

Mallorquín

It is a native breed from Mallorca. It has a good height, ranging from 1.50 to 1.65 meters. Its docile and calm temperament makes it suitable for various equestrian activities. These horses are highly valued by equestrian enthusiasts.

Marismeño

This semi-wild equine variety originates from Doñana, in the autonomous community of Andalusia. It has physical characteristics similar to Iberian horses. It is widely used in fieldwork and cowboy dressage. It is one of many horse breeds that are currently endangered.

Menorquín

This horse originates from the island of Menorca. Its average height ranges from 1.53 to 1.65 meters. This breed is particularly ideal for dressage, but it is also used for jumping and performances.

Monchino

A rustic horse, native to the mountains of eastern Cantabria. Its height ranges from 1.35 to 1.46 meters. It weighs between 400 and 500 kilograms. It is widely used in sporting competitions, as a saddle horse, and in bull-taming practices.

Pottoka

The Pottoka is a slender and strong pony, native to Euskal Herria. Its small height is barely 1.24 meters, approximately. It is widely used as a draft and working animal.