Queen Elizabeth II and her noble Slovenian Lipizzaner horse

Visit Lipica on 22nd May for the Day of the Lipizzaner, one of the noblest breeds of horses, and meet the one personally owned by Queen Elizabeth II. The day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the Stud Farm in 1580 and the beginning of breeding Lipizzaner horses in green, active and healthy Slovenia. With its continuous horse breeding activities since the 16th century, Lipica Stud Farm is one of Europe’s oldest stud farms.

Lipica Stud Farm, home to the magnificent white Lipizzaner horses, welcomes visitors to its park, stables and musem. In 2015 the estate celebrated its 435th anniversary with a spectacular performance of the Lipica Classical Riding School. From 22nd May onwards you will be able to enjoy the company and performance of Queen Elizabeth II’s own Lipizzaner; 24-year old Favory Canissa XXII is the great pride of Lipica Stud Farm and father to 12 male and 14 female foals.

The story of the Lipizzaners and Lipica Stud Farm began in 1580. On May 19th, 1580 the Habsburg Archduke Charles II purchased the Lipica estate. The event became the foundation of the future imperial royal stud farm. This day is taken as the date of the establishment of the Lipica Stud Farm and as the date of the beginning of breeding the Lipizzaner horses. Celebrate their anniversary at the Day of the Lipizzaner; this year the celebration will take place on 22nd May.

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