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The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation in Jerez de la Frontera is known all over the world thanks to its show entitled "How the Andalusian Horses Dance", a unique exhibition of horsemanship which both exhibits and summarises the work which the institution has carried out since its establishment.

In May 1973 his Majesty King Juan Carlos I - at that time Prince of Spain - awarded Don Alvaro Domecq Romero the "Caballo de Oro" (Golden Horse) trophy in Jerez de la Frontera. This is the most prestigious equestrian trophy awarded annually in Spain in recognition of dedication to, and work carried out in favour of, the horse. In honour of this award, Alvaro Domecq presented his show "How the Andalusian Horses Dance" for the very first time, such event representing the origin of our Foundation.


In its initial stage the School developed under the personal management of its creator. Later the Ministry of Information and Tourism decided to take charge, purchasing the “Recreo de Las Cadenas” to this end from the Duke of Abrantes, and a covered exercise ring was built - work of the architect José Luís Picardo - which could seat up to 1,600 spectators and with stable facilities for 60 horses.


In 1982 the ministry handed over the running of the School to a Governing Body, under the charge of the Cadiz Provincial Council, thus promoting the re-launch of the school at both a national and international level.


In 1983 the Governing Body purchased the School and after public tender the post of Technical Director was awarded to its creator and founder, D. Alvaro Domecq Romero.


Since 1986 the Governing Body has surpassed even its most optimistic expectations, having been able to provide the Institution with all its economic, personnel and technical requirements. It was in this year that the School acquired the stable of Don Pedro Domecq de la Riva, which consisted of thirty-five Spanish breed horses and a wonderful collection of nineteen horse-drawn carriages and their corresponding harnesses, some dating back to 1730, along with saddles and embroidery for both horses and coachmen, all pieces of incalculable historical value.


In June 1987 His Majesty the King received the members of the Governing Body in audience at the Zarzuela Palace, accepting the post of honorary President and conferring the title of "Royal School" to the Institution. On October 15th of the same year, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofía presided over the inaugural event of the Royal School Foundation from the Royal Box in the covered ring.


In July 2003 the previous Governing Body became the Foundation, thus obtaining greater solidity regarding its legal form and allowing it to receive private finance for future development.


Although from public view the show "How the Andalusian Horses Dance" may be considered the maximum exponent of the School's work, there are other aspects which are considered equally, or even more important for the Institution.


Amongst these we would like to highlight the role of social and cultural vehicle for our equestrian heritage, the selection of horses for promotion, the training of riders in Alta Escuela, the conservation and promotion of Classical and Country Dressage, conserving the prestige of our horsemanship, our breed of Spanish horse, our traditions and culture, and with the show play host to the Province of Cadiz and act as ambassadors of Spain abroad on annual tours to different foreign countries.


In order to do this, the Royal School Foundation carries out training courses for riders, carriage-drivers, harness and saddle makers, clinical assistants and stable hands.