Vienna's Winter Riding School is the home of the famous Spanish Riding School, the riding school for the world-renowned Lipizzaner horses. The baroque building, which was built between 1729 and 1735, is located in Vienna's Hofburg Complex. Emperor Karl VI commissioned the Winter Riding School, which was designed by Josef Emanuel Fischer von Erlach.

There are two entrances to the Winter Riding School, one from the Michaelerkuppel in the Hofburg, and one on Josefsplatz.

The stable across the street was once a Renaissance palace where Emperor Maximilian II resided.

During the 16th century, the Lipizzaner breed, famous for its stamina and gracefulness, was created by crossing Spanish, Berber and Arab horses. The horses' graceful steps are based on exercises that were developed by cavalrymen during the Renaissance.

The breeding of Lipizzaner horses takes place at the Austrian National Stud Farm at Piber.

The Spanish Riding School is thought to have been founded in 1572.

Although visitors to the Winter Riding School will want to see the Lipizzaner perform - there are almost 1000 seats for spectators - they can also enjoy viewing the building's magnificent architecture, which includes elaborate chandeliers and plasterwork

When entering the hall, a rider must raise his hat to salute a portrait of Karl VI.

It is possible for tourists to watch the Lipizzaner during their training sessions.

Guided tours include visits to the stables.