The heritage of the Spanish horse
The heritage of the Spanish horse: an insight into the management and breeding of purebred Spanish horses
This international course, held in Seville and Jerez de la Frontera, offers a comprehensive immersion in the world of the Purebred Spanish Horse and the equestrian sector. Over the course of several days, participants will combine theoretical training—including lectures on genetics, biomechanics, animal health and welfare—with practical activities and technical visits.
A highlight is a visit to the SICAB International Horse Show, a global benchmark for the PRE, where participants will be able to watch top-level competitions and exhibitions. The programme is rounded off with visits to iconic institutions such as the Military Horse Breeding Centre in Jerez and the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art.
It also includes cultural activities and opportunities for European participants to exchange ideas, fostering collaborative learning. Welcome!
From 15 to 20 November
European networks: Share experiences and build lasting professional connections with educators across the EU, creating a collaborative community for future Erasmus+ projects.
The Seville experience: Develop your professional skills in one of Europe’s most culturally rich cities, where history serves as a living example of the coexistence and prosperity of diverse cultures.
Erasmus+ Funding: This course is eligible for funding under Key Action 1 (KA1).
You will receive the Europass Mobility Certificate.
SUNDAY – 15
Dinner MEETING POINT
MONDAY – 16
Registration of participants.
Opening and presentation of the course
- Lecture 1: The Purebred Spanish Horse (PRE). –
History, genetics and international breeding standards - Lecture 2: The equestrian sector in Spain.
- Coffe break
- Round-table workshop: A comparison of the equestrian sector across European countries.
- Lecture 3: Applied Biomechanics
- Lecture 4: Preparing for SICAB Technical guide on what to look for at the show (morphology).
- Lunch
- Sightseeing tour of Seville.
TUESDAY – 17 and WEDNESDAY – 18
Technical visits to SICAB 2026. Observation of morphological exhibitions and competitions and high-level sports performance.
The International Horse Show (SICAB), held annually in Seville, is the world’s leading equestrian event dedicated exclusively to the Purebred Spanish Horse (PRE). Organised by the Royal National Association of Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders (ANCCE), it brings together top-level competitions, auctions and commercial activities.
THURSDAY – 19
Transfer to Jerez de la Frontera:
1º.- Visit to “Centro Militar de Cría Caballar de Jerez”
The Jerez Military Horse Breeding Centre (including the Cortijo de Vicos and Garrapilos) is a unit of the Spanish Army specialising in the breeding, selection and training of Purebred Spanish and Arabian horses. Its main mission is to supply horses to the Royal Guard and law enforcement agencies, as well as to preserve the equine genetic heritage
2º.– Visit to “Real Escuela andaluza de arte ecuestre”
The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art offers you a unique experience where purebred Andalusian horses dance to the strains of classical Spanish music. Discover the elegance of classical dressage, visit centuries-old stables, the Palacio de las Cadenas and equestrian museums in an unrivalled Andalusian setting.
FRIDAY – 20
- Lecture 1: One Health & Equine Medicine: Emerging diseases and biosecurity in transport.
- Lecture 2: Animal Welfare (Ethology) New European regulations for equestrian training centres.
- Coffe break
- Debriefing on the visits (SICAB & Jerez)
- Certificates awarded at the end of the course (Europass). Course closing ceremony.
The course will be held at María Auxiliadora Salesianas School, at 1 Sta. María Mazzarello Street, Seville.
Date
From 15 to 20 November
The heritage of the Spanish horse: an insight into the management and breeding of purebred Spanish horses
Seville
Prices
The price of the course is €480
What does it include?
- Lectures + practical workshops
- Sightseeing of the historic center of Sevilla
- Coffee breaks
Seville, a destination that can be felt with all five senses
Seville is not to be visited, it is to be experienced. It is a city that envelops the traveler with a unique blend of history, art and passion. Some say that its magic lies in the golden light that tinges its streets at sunset. Others believe it is in the flamenco duende that resonates in the peñas and tablaos. Perhaps it is the murmur of the Guadalquivir or the crunch of the gravel in the Andalusian patios. Whatever it is, Seville is enchanting.
A walk through history
To travel through Seville is to take a trip back in time. The historic heart of the city beats between the imposing Giralda, the majestic Cathedral -the largest in the world in Gothic style– and the exquisite halls and gardens of the Real Alcazar. Every corner speaks of past civilizations, Mudejar art and legends. Climb the Giralda to see the city from above and then lose yourself in the shaded corridors of the Alcazar, especially magical in summer during its nighttime visits or open-air concerts.
Spaces that invite you to linger
But Seville is also contemporary and alive. The Plaza de España, with its monumental architecture, invites you to sit leisurely. Maria Luisa Park is perfect for strolling among fountains, flowers and statues. And if you’re looking for something different, the Setas de Sevilla -the Metropol Parasol– offers a modern look at the city with a panoramic view over the rooftops of the historic center.
A taste of Seville
The best way to understand the Sevillian character is to go out on the street and eat tapas. In neighborhoods like Triana, with its flamenco soul; the Alameda, young and alternative; or Nervión and Los Remedios, more residential but with a lot of life, you will find bars where the cuisine is shared in small portions full of flavor. From the classic pescaíto frito to salmorejo, passing through montaditos and snails, accompanied by a fresh manzanilla or an ice-cold beer, each tapa is an excuse to socialize and celebrate.
A city to come back to
Seville is not exhausted in a single visit. Whether for its Semana Santa, the Feria de Abril or a simple stroll along the river, there is always something left to discover. And when you leave, you will leave with the certainty that you have been in a place with soul.
Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation
The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation, established in 1973, is dedicated to the training, preservation and promotion of equestrian art, as well as to the breeding and selection of the Purebred Spanish Horse. Its show “How Andalusian Horses Dance” is its most prominent activity, although it also carries out extensive educational and cultural work. Furthermore, it boasts numerous facilities and spaces that allow visitors to discover and enjoy this art form, and which are also used for hosting events.
SICAB – International Show for Purebred Spanish Horses
The International Horse Show (SICAB), organised by the ANCCE in Seville, is a major event with significant media coverage that brings together breeders of purebred Spanish horses from all over the world. Andalusia, as the main centre for breeding and export, plays a key role in this sector, accounting for a large proportion of global production. Furthermore, SICAB promotes high-end international tourism and generates significant direct and indirect economic benefits.
Jerez Military Horse Breeding Centre
The Jerez Military Horse Breeding Centre, which comprises the Military Stud Farm at Cortijos de Vicos and Garrapilos, is dedicated to breeding thoroughbred horses for the Armed Forces and also supports horse breeders. With a tradition dating back to 1876, it has played a key role in the development of the Spanish and Arabian horse breeds in Spain. In addition, its facilities host prominent equestrian events such as the Concurso de Acoso y Derribo.
