The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is a traditional riding school for Lipizzan horses, which have been performing classical dressage in the heart of Vienna for over 450 years. It was founded during the Habsburg Monarchy in 1565, making it the oldest of its kind in the world. The name "Spanish" Riding School derives from the Spanish horses that formed one of the bases of the Lipizzan breed, which is used exclusively at the school. The school's majestic home is the Winter Riding School in Hofburg Palace, a baroque pearl of architecture built between 1729-1735, under the reign of Emperor Charles VI. The design was crafted by eminent architect Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach. From outside, the building is a marvel of classic Baroque architecture with its grand arched windows and ornate detailing. The interior is equally breathtaking, featuring a vast riding hall with a portrait of Emperor Charles VI situated above the royal box, and a sand-covered floor where the horses perform. Training sessions and performances of the Lipizzan horses at the Spanish Riding School are a tradition that continues to this day, showcasing “High School” classical dressage, including highly controlled movements such as the "airs above the ground". These performances are a tribute to the harmony between horse and rider and are considered an art form. An interesting fact about the school is that the training methods have been carefully preserved and passed down through generations. This commitment to tradition is so significant that in 2015, UNESCO added the "Practices and Expressions of the Spanish Court Riding School Vienna" to its list of intangible cultural heritage. The Spanish Riding School is not just a tourist attraction; it's a living link to the city's past. Visitors can watch the morning exercise of the horses, take a guided tour of the stables, or even attend a full performance. It's a unique experience that brings to life a piece of Vienna's rich history.