Pura Raza Española
Registry Code: PRE
Also Known As: PRE, PRE Andalusian, Pure Spanish Horse, Carthusian Andalusian, Cartujano
The Pura Raza Española horse breed (PRE, PRE Andalusian) is a baroque breed originating in Spain with a history dating back to pre-Roman Empire days. The breed has been recognized since the 15th century, and has been prized as a war horse and a mount for persons of nobility. They are known for their elegance, full & flowing mane and tail, docility and intelligence, and are used in modern times primarily as a saddle horse. The PRE excels in dressage, driving, western pleasure, and (believe it or not) show jumping!
Average Height: 15.0 – 15.2 hh (152 – 158 cm)
Spanish PRE Stud Book (ANCCE) Height Minimum: 155 cm for stallions and 153 cm for mares
Most Common Colours: Grey & Bay
Recognized Colours: Chestnut, Black, Bay, Grey, Dun dilutions, Cream dilutions, Pearl dilutions
The Cartujano, or Carthusian Andalusian, is a sub-type of the Pura Raza Española breed (accounting for about 12% of all "Andalusian" horses in the world registered up to and including 1998) which is generally considered to be the purest strain. For the purpose of IHA registration, any horses otherwise considered to be a Cartujano or Carthusian Andalusian should be registered under Pura Raza Española.