Introduction to the Spanish Riding School: The Spanish Riding School (Spanische Reitschule) is located west of the wall at the back entrance of the Hofburg Palace. The history of the school can be traced back to 1572, when Emperor Maximilian II began to ride Spanish horses.
This kind of horse-stepping and dancing performance that began in the royal court in the 16th century reached its peak during the Renaissance and became popular in various European courts. However, today only Vienna can preserve this ancient tradition.
In 1735, the winter riding school commissioned by Karl VI was completed. This extraordinary equestrian performance hall is 17 meters high, 18 meters wide and 55 meters long. The surrounding corridors are supported by 46 pillars. Since then, it has been a place for people to watch superb equestrian performances.