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For centuries, Jerez has been dedicated to the raising and reproduction of horses, not only with a military and defensive end, but also for the enjoyment of its citizens. It would therefore be impossible to imagine a celebration of any kind without the participation of the horses of Jerez.
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There are two significant moments in the history of the horse in Jerez which should be mentioned: firstly, the arrival of the Carthusian monks at the end of the 15th century. On seeing the strength and docility of the horses of Jerez, they determinedly devoted themselves to creating one of the most beautiful breeds - the Carthusian horse, which has survived to this day to become the iconic Spanish and Andalusian horse. The second event was the holding of the World Equestrian Games in September 2002. This definitively confïrmed Jerez's position as the Andalusian capital of the horse and its ability to organise major events related to the equestrian world.
Jerez offers a wide range of activities closely related to the horse, from research to leisure, business, training, sport and culture. All of these are closely linked to centres on a national and international level with their headquarters in Jerez, such as the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, the Hierro del Bocado stud farm, the military stud farm and Equine Reproduction Centre No.2 (the latter two both dedicated to the raising, reproduction, continuance and improvement of thoroughbred horses, mainly Spanish), numerous private studs, nine equestrian centres, and prestigious centres and services dedicated to the world of horses.
This rich cultural diversity linked to the horse is a key activity for the local economy, a magnificent heritage which is a point of reference in its contribution to the world of the horse and the equine industry in general.
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