Royal Stables of Córdoba, birthplace of the Spanish pure-bred horse

In 1568, King Felipe II chose Córdoba as the base for developing the pure-bred Spanish horse and appointed Don Diego López de Haro, a Cordoban nobleman and horse breeder, as the king's master of horse in the city. Construction of the Royal Stables began from that point, designed to carry out this breeding project, from which the pure-bred Spanish horse, or Andalusian horse, was born.

The building's history also has its hard knocks. In 1734, a fire destroyed much of the stables, and Felipe V ordered their reconstruction, completed during the reign of Fernando VI, keeping the original structure while increasing its capacity. Later, under Fernando VII, the building became state property.

In 1808, French troops looted the Stables, stealing foals and stallions among other things. In 1867 the building passed into the hands of the army, a link that continued well into the 20th century. In 1929 it was declared a National Historic Monument and National Heritage site.

More recently, the Stables housed the 7th Stallion Depot from 1945 until it moved to Écija in 1995. Today the building is managed by Córdoba Ecuestre.

The visit focuses on the inside of the building and the spaces linked to breeding and working with horses. You can walk through the main stable, which retains its 16th-century layout, and take a look at the stallion stables and the riding arena.

One of the most striking features inside is the collection of antique horse-drawn carriages in the main stable, with fifteen 19th-century carriages. This same setting is also where the equestrian shows take place.

The Royal Stables of Córdoba open with a split schedule.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays you can visit from 10:00 to 13:30 and from 15:30 to 18:30. From Wednesday to Saturday, the afternoon slot is extended, running from 10:00 to 13:30 and 15:30 to 20:30.

For the equestrian show at the Royal Stables of Córdoba there are two types of ticket. The standard ticket costs €18.50 and gives access only to the show.

If you'd rather take your time, the premium ticket costs €23.70 and includes access to the venue 30 minutes early, with the chance to visit the area where the horses are before the show starts.

From Wednesday to Saturday, equestrian shows are held at the Royal Stables of Córdoba under the name Pasión y Duende del Caballo Andaluz. Show times can vary depending on the time of year.

If you choose the standard ticket, you only get access to the show. With the premium ticket, you can enter the venue 30 minutes early and visit the area where the horses are before it starts.

The Royal Stables of Córdoba are next to the Alcázar of the Catholic Monarchs, on Calle Caballerizas Reales, 1, next to the San Basilio neighbourhood. By public transport, the closest bus lines are 3 and 6.

More guided tours in Córdoba to round off your plan

If you want to make the most of your visit to the Royal Stables of Córdoba, there are several guided tours that fit in well by location and timing. You can combine it with a guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral or choose a mixed route like the complete Cordoba tour with tickets.

For something different, there are also the other guided tours of Cordoba and the night-time Medina Azahara.

If you'd like more context, the best option is to book our guided tours of Córdoba and the guided tour of the Alcázar of the Catholic Monarchs with an official guide.