We had a truly an Az-amazing Evening at the Lipica Stud Farm in Slovenia! Having toured the farm on a previous visit, this time we were excited to see the famed white horses perform. Events like this, arranged at no extra cost to passengers and designed to immerse them in local culture and traditions, are a specialty of Azamara and one reason we cruise with them as often as we do.
We were greeted with a red carpet walk to the riding arena, where delicious Slovenian food and wine were offered before the performance. Then we took our seats Inside for an hour-long spectacle of dressage by the grand Lipizzaner stallions and riders, classical music by a small orchestra and opera singers, and waltzes performed by graceful couples in glamorous formal dress.
Established in 1580, Lipica is one of the oldest stud farms in the world and is the origin of the Lipizzaner breed. These magnificent horses, known for their intelligence, athleticism, and predominantly white coats, have a long history intertwined with European nobility. (We saw – and petted – Queen Elizabeth’s Lipizzaner when we visited previously.) There are about 300 horses in residence at the verdant farm at any one time.
Interestingly, Lipizzaners are actually born black and gradually turn white as they mature. The riders, trained at the esteemed Lipica Riding School, have honed their skills over years to expertly guide these powerful animals through intricate maneuvers. The bond needed between horse and rider takes a decade or more to nurture.
The Lipizzaners themselves undergo years of rigorous training, beginning at the age of four. This training, based on classical dressage principles, develops the horses’ strength, agility, and obedience, ultimately enabling them to perform intricate dance-like maneuvers and demanding “airs above the ground” – highly specialized leaps and jumps.
The orchestra, singers and dancers entertained with toe-tapping and hummable Viennese music between dressage routines throughout the evening. We often held back applause since it might startle the horses, but the hushed attention and murmured “Wows!” from the crowd spoke volumes.
From the warm hospitality to the captivating performances, it was a memorable Az-Amazing night – the first of five we’ll enjoy on our Grand Voyage to South Africa.