The Andalucian horse has been highly regarded throughout the world since the Middle Ages. Spanish horses have been famous for their strength, quality and appearance since Roman times. The Moors invaded Spain in the Seventh Century and brought Barb horses with them. These Oriental breeds were crossed with the quality native Spanish stock, and the result was the Andalucian.

The world’s most aristocratic equine population owes its fame to the Andalucian horse, along with the Arab and, much later on, the Thoroughbred.

During the Middle Ages, the Andalucian was the favoured mount of European aristocracy, and the Andalucian was a major influence on the Lipizzaner breed in the 1500’s. More recently, it was used as a cavalry mount, and although its numbers at one time diminished, the Andalucian’s physical appearance and fitness make it one of the world’s most desirable riding horses.

The Andalucian has a distinguished appearance, usually white, light grey or occasionally bay in colour. It is a compact horse with excellent proportions and usually stands at 15.2 to 16.2 hands. The mane and tail are abundant. It has a flat or slightly convex nose, small ears, and its head is set on a substantial neck. The chest is is quite massive and the quarters are lean. The legs are clean and the action is quite energetic. The Andalusian is renowned for its ablilty to learn different movements, and it boasts a superb temperament.

The horse originated in, and gained its name from, the Spanish Province of Andalucia. Its ancestors are the Iberian (Spanish) horse and the Barb horse which was brought to Spain by the invading Moors. It was bred principally by Carthusian Monks in the late Middle Ages. The famed William Cavendish, Duke of Newcastle, wrote “… the Spanish horse is the noblest animal in the world…” Cortez introduced the breed to America for his conquests. In 1832, an epidemic devastated Spain’s horse population. No Andalucians were permitted to be exported until 1962, hence the rarity of the breed outside of the Iberian peninsula.
One of the most famous horse fairs in Andalucia is the Jerez Horse Fair, which takes place annually during May, and some of Spain´s most beautiful animals and skilful horsemen can be seen here. The famous sherry producing town hosts the fabulous Feria del Caballo, and thousands of visitors flock here to witness this stunning equine event.

Amazing displays of horsemanship and the beauty and elegance of the Spanish purebreds and Andalusian thoroughbreds is a sight to behold, and the quality of the displays is breathtaking.
Cowboy and classical dressage shows take place throughout the day plus showjumping and vaulting. The highlight of the fair has to be the Como Bailan Los Caballos Andluces show, performed by the Royal School of Equestrian Art, and incorporates some incredible dances and moves by the horses and a dazzling display of colourful, traditional dress by their riders. Sideshows and agricultural exhibitions also take place close to the centre of town.

Many horse shows also take place throughout the Costa del Sol, and one of the best is held at El Ranchito, Torremolinos. Opened in the 1960´s as a riding school, El Ranchito now hosts the most spectacular Andalucian horse show on the Costa Del Sol.

José Gonzalez bought the ranch in 1975, and continued running it as a school until the 1990´s when he decided to create a family horse show with animals trained by him.
This amazing show is performed every Wednesday evening, and brings together some of Andalucia´s finest riders and horses. Split into six sections, with a short break in the middle, the show includes equestrian ballet, Spanish dressage and the most incredible skills by the horsemen.
Lasting one and a half hours, the show regularly attracts crowds of over 500 in the summer months, and advance booking is recommended. Dinner and a flamenco show can also be enjoyed at certain times of the year.

Contact details: El Ranchito, El Pinar, 29620, Torremolinos. Tel: 0034 952383140. Fax: 0034 952 387566. Website: www.spanishhorseshow.com E-mail: info@spanishhorseshow.com
When: Every Wednesday evening.
Entrance:.€20 Adults. €10.50 Children.
Opening hours: 5.45pm.
Getting there: From Torremolinos, take direction Benalmadena and exit to the right where you see the sign for La Colina. Go back on yourself and turn right up by the Hotel Pinar. First turn on the right will take you to El Ranchito.