Synonymous with glamour and beauty, the Lipizzans have shaped the cultural identity of the inhabitants of continental Croatia and have deeply ingrained themselves both in folk customs and art, as well as in the hearts of the locals. As a result of rigorous selection, Lipizzans have become one of the most famous horse breeds. Known for their white color with white mane and tail, tall and somewhat dramatic gait, and good temperament, these horses deserve the name royal in every sense.

History of this Famous Horse Breed

The Lipizzan horse breed is the result of man's attempt to create the perfect animal through a rigorous selection of the best genes. Which ultimately resulted in success - elegant animals with a refined attitude, like mythical creatures from fairy tales. And it all started with one man and one goal. In 1580 the Austrian Archduke Charles II founded the Lipica stud farm to breed carriages and ride horses for the Vienna Court's needs. So, to deliver the best and the most beautiful horses to the Vienna Court, Archduke Charles II starts breeding Lipizzan horses, and the rest is history. In Croatia, these beautiful horses appeared in 1700, after Count Andrija Janković bought the first Lipizzan horses and began breeding them. In 1855, Stud farm Đakovo also joined this trend and later had a significant influence on the spread of Lipizzan horse breeding in Croatia. 

The characteristics that put the Lipizzan horse on the throne are its solid physique, excellent ability to learn and willingness to work, gentle and highly patient nature, and attachment to people. In addition, this elegant and noble horse has a balanced physique and regular and graceful gaits, making it perfect for performing elements of classical dressage and for all equestrian disciplines under saddle and in harness.

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A Lipizzan Horse Haven – Ivandvor

Not so far from the small Slavonian city of Đakovo hides a beautiful stud farm – Ivandvor. There the stud herd of mares with their foals are situated and raised to the age of three. With an astonishing landscape and serenity, this place will fill your mind and body with positivity and happiness. We had a chance to visit Ivandvor and these magnificent animals and see their glamour live. A once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will cherish. Lipizzan horses were super friendly, and we even took a few selfies. It is a perfect place to recharge your batteries and fill that need for peace and tranquility. We found out that this place was visited even by the late English Queen Elizabeth itself. How cool is that? It tells you a lot about the value of this stud farm and its horses. The price of the tickets is symbolic - 2,65 € for adults and 1,33 € for kids. For more information, check out the State Stud Farm Đakovo website.

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Christmas Ball of Lipizzan Horses in Đakovo

We know Christmas has passed, but we have to mention this! One of Europe's prettiest and oldest horse breeds, recognized even by UNESCO, has its own ball. Held every year during December in the city of Đakovo, this Lipizzan Horses Ball will delight you with music, dances, and a festive atmosphere. The leading actors are, of course, Lipizzan Horses. And we have to say; they did their job amazingly. It is best to reserve your tickets a few months in advance, even a year, because they sell out quickly.

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