Equestrian art in Portugal is a unique and distinctive tradition within Portuguese culture, embodying the perfect harmony between rider and horse. Join us on a journey into the world of equestrian art!

The activity begins at the National Coach Museum and continues to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, featuring a tour of the facilities and a presentation at the Henrique Calado Riding Arena.

At the museum, the “Grand Procession” will evoke the era of King John V, recalling street festivals that were true spectacles filled with glamour, music, sumptuous carriages, and richly adorned horses! In this activity, we will step back in time to discover the secrets behind the most impressive royal processions in our history. After exploring the museum’s fascinating stories, it is time for hands-on fun: in our creative workshop, each family will design, cut out, and assemble their own paper royal procession. Participants are invited to use their imaginations to craft a memorable journey in miniature!

At the School, the Lusitano horse named Gentil—depicted in the equestrian statue of King Joseph I at Terreiro do Paço—serves as the inspiration for this program. The aim is to present, in an educational manner, the key characteristics and evolutionary stages of horsemanship and equestrian art in Portugal, interspersed with demonstrations showcasing a heritage that is unique in the world. Before focusing on Gentil, visitors will gain access to the *Páteo da Nora* (Nora Courtyard) for a behind-the-scenes look at equestrian art. Here, grooms tend to the animals while riders perform warm-up exercises with their horses.

Programme

• 9:50 AM – Meeting at the National Coach Museum
• 10:00 AM – The Grand Procession
• 11:00 AM – Walk (approx. 300m) to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art
• 11:15 AM – Visit to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art
• 12:15 PM – Gentil – Symbol of Portuguese Equestrian Art (https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/pt/programacao/galas-para-familias/)
• 1:00 PM – End of the program
  

Text as provided by the organiser(s).