The Lipizzan horse, also called the Lipizzaner, is a breed known for beautiful acrobatics and dressage-like movements.
Temperament
The Lipizzan is kind and quick to learn. It matures slowly, often not reaching full maturity until it reaches seven years of age and then real training begins.
Spanish Riding School
Established in 1572, the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, Austria is the oldest institution of its kind in the world. It promotes the art of classical horsemanship and uses the Lipizzan exclusively.Lipizzan Association of North America: [1]
The 6 Foundation Stallions
In 1580, Archduke Charles II, the son of Emperor Ferdinand I, was asked to found a stud horse to provide fine quality horses for the Austrian royal court.Equiworld.net: [1]