The Lusitano horse
The name Lusitano or Lusitano comes from Lusitania, an ancient Roman province covering part of what is now Portugal. Its origins, which remain obscure, could be the same as those of the purebred Spanish horse (Andalusian from Spain), i.e., from the Spanish Genet, but with more Arabian and Barbe blood. Before its herd book was opened in 1966, it was referred to as an Iberian or Andalusian horse.
Several distinct types were developed: the “Andrade” type, with Cartujanos blood, is a large horse with superb gaits; the “Veiga” type, small, extremely fine, racy, nervous and much appreciated; the “Fonte Boa” type, intended for light draft and mulassière production and now a sport horse; the “Coudeleria Nacional” type, heavier, lacking a little finesse, is the most widespread; the “Alter-Real” type, intended for the High School. Since 1987, the French Stud Book for the Lusitano has been maintained by the French National Stud?
Caractère et aptitudes du cheval
Gentle, with good natural balance, he is very docile and courageous. Strong, resistant, energetic, and fiery, he is agile and very supple. His feet are sure-footed, and his gaits are elevated. It is a late bloomer, but very long-lived.
Utilisations du cheval
A war horse, used in the cavalry, a favorite carriage-maker at European royal courts, this saddle horse shows great aptitude for sports (show jumping, carriage driving). The whole male is the ideal mount for Portuguese bullfighting. He excels in the Haute École.
Morphologie du cheval
Long, handsome head. Straight or subconvex profile. Open nostrils. Small ears. Large eyes. Compact, compact body. Powerful neck carried high. Pronounced but drowned withers. Powerful, sloping shoulders. Deep chest. Short, strong back. Wide, powerful loins. Croup rounded, gently sloping. Fine limbs, very good bone structure. Strong joints. Feet small, hard. Tail set rather low. Coat: all simple colors. Frequently gray or bay. Chestnut accepted. Silky, absorbent, slightly wavy manes. Size: 1.50 to 1.63 m.
