PRE (pura raza Española) horses are members of the internationally prized breed of the Iberian peninsula. Remarkable for their stunning beauty and presence, they are also highly rated working horses that excel across a range of equestrian disciplines. Essentially, breeders who sell a PRE must conform to the registration and documentation standards of the Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballo de Pura Raza Española (ANCCE), a title which translates as the National Purebred Spanish Breeders' Association of Spain. When considering whether to buy a PRE, it is this standard to look for, as the ANCCE is officially recognised by the Spanish government as the controlling authority of the Purebred Spanish Horse Stud Book. Interest in PRE horses extends across the globe, with many different organisations registering and upholding the traditions of these magnificent animals.
PRE horses are notable for their superb compact conformation, their eye-catching beauty, and their athleticism. Strict height standards apply for registration, the minimum height having been set at 15.0 hands (60 inches, 152 cm) for male horses and 14.3 hands (59 inches, 150 cm) for mares. Standards for breeding stock are even stricter, with only stallions of 15.1 hands (61 inches, 155 cm) and mares at least 15 hands and ¼” (60.25 inches, 153 cm) being registered. These standards guarantee the quality of the breed for anyone considering whether to buy a PRE. Also, the standards restrict the breeding of these exquisite animals to dedicated specialists who will only sell a PRE horse of the right quality. PRE horses have elegance and power in equal measure, making them an excellent choice for dressage. The face of a PRE is noble, and either straight or slightly convex in profile. The ANCCE only recognises certain bloodlines, and approximately 82% of all PRE horses have Cartujano, or Carthusian ancestry, which is considered to be the oldest and noblest strain of all. Grey, bay and black predominate in coat colours, but other colours are acceptable under breed legislation. PRE horses are intelligent and willing, and bond closely with humans who are sympathetic partners.
Spain has been noted for the quality of its horses since Roman times. Various equestrian cultures and societies have contributed to Spanish horse breeding over the centuries. In medieval and early modern times, horses from Spain were some of the most highly prized equines, ridden by heads of state across Europe and also exchanged as high status gifts. It’s said that in the 11th century, El Cid’s horse, Babieca was a horse of the highest quality that Spain could produce, either a gift from the royal stables of King Sancho of Leon, or produced in a Carthusian monastery. The purest strain of PRE is believed to come from horses bred by these monks, based on the selection of particular animals of the Andalusian horse breed, or type. Over time, the Carthusian horse became distinctively different from other types of horse on the Iberian peninsula.
Magnificent PRE horses have made a major contribution to other Baroque breeds such as the Lippizaners of the Spanish Riding School. The speed, athleticism and intelligence of the PRE could be used to deadly effect by cavalry, making them a popular choice as warhorses in early modern times. They and their relatives such as the Lusitano were used in bullfighting and herding as well. These skills now make them superb dressage and display horses. Their grace and intelligence means they are an excellent choice for many advanced equestrian events.