Spanische Reitschule (Spanish Riding School)
Karl VI ordered this showcase for the all-white Lipizzaner stallions; today's riders perform precision horsemanship that originated four centuries ago. The Spanish Riding School occupies a white, chandelier-hung ballroom inside a building designed by J. E. Fischer von Erlach. Watching the Lipizzaners perform their gaits and maneuvers to the strains of a waltz is an unforgettable experience.To attend you can purchase a ticket (at increased rates) from a local travel agent, or write as much as six months in advance to Spanische Reitschule, Hofburg, Josefspl., A 1010 Wien (this reserves one of the 600 seats or 200 standing-room spots; you pay when you pick up your ticket). Prices range from AS160 for standing-room seats to AS800 for the best house seats.
If you miss the regular performance, try to see the men and their mounts go through their paces at one of the daily training sessions. The latter do not take place in July and August, so ask at the tourist office for a current schedule.
If you can't see a performance, visit Graz to tour the Piber Stud Farm, where the horses are bred and trained.
Address:
Michaelerplatz 1, Hofburg
Vienna
Austria
Telephone: + (1) 533-9032