Coudelaria Nacional, Horse stud farm in Alter do Chão, Portugal.
Coudelaria Nacional is a horse stud farm located on the Alentejo plains, stretching across hundreds of hectares with stables, training areas, and pastures combined in one operation. The facility is organized around the needs of large-scale horse breeding and care.
The stud was founded in 1748 by King John V to improve Portuguese horse breeding and establish a national breeding facility. This founding made it one of the oldest continuously operating institutions of its kind.
This facility is known for breeding Lusitano horses, a Portuguese horse breed with deep roots, which visitors can observe living in their natural environment. These horses are visible in the pastures and stables, shaping the character of the place.
Visitors should come with sturdy walking shoes and clothing suited to outdoor conditions, as the facility includes many open areas and pastures. Guided walks through stables and training areas are available and offer insight into daily operations.
The facility preserves a herd of around 60 breeding mares with their foals since the 18th century to maintain pure Alter Real bloodlines. This continuous breeding over multiple centuries is rare and makes the place distinctive.
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