La Cartuja of Jerez and the Carthusian Horse: A Symbol of History and Nobility
Jerez de la Frontera is a land of wine, flamenco, and undoubtedly, horses. But not just any horse. One of the purest and most emblematic equine lineages in the world was born and preserved here: the Carthusian Horse. Its history is inseparably linked to a place of peace and monumental beauty: the Monastery of La Cartuja de Santa María de la Defensión.
If you are looking to immerse yourself in the most noble and ancestral essence of Jerez, this duo (monastery and horse) is a mandatory stop. Prepare to discover a unique heritage that the Familia Antonio Parra invites you to explore from the comfort of our apartments.
The Monastery of La Cartuja: A Haven of Art and Spirituality
The Royal Monastery of Santa María de la Defensión in Jerez, simply known as La Cartuja, is one of the late Gothic jewels of Andalusia and one of the most important monastic complexes in Spain. Its construction, started in the 15th century, spanned centuries, resulting in a harmonious blend of styles ranging from Gothic to Renaissance.
Crossing its majestic Plateresque-style portal, you will enter a place where time seems to stand still. Its courtyards, church, cloister, and monastic rooms invite reflection and admiration of an exceptional artistic and architectural heritage. It is a space that emanates history and tranquility, a perfect contrast to the bustle of the city.
History and Heritage: Founded by the knight Álvaro Obertos de Valeto, its name "de la Defensión" comes from a legend about the appearance of the Virgin Mary during a battle.
What to Visit: The Church, the orange tree courtyard, the cloisters, and the chapels are of breathtaking beauty.
Hours and Visits: It is important to check visiting hours, as they can vary and they usually offer guided tours for groups.
The Carthusian Horse: A Millenary Lineage in the Land of Jerez
But La Cartuja is much more than a monastery. It is the place where, for centuries, Carthusian monks started one of the most influential and pure breeding lines of the Purebred Spanish horse: the Carthusian lineage. Isolated from the world and with Spartan dedication, the monks carefully selected the best specimens, giving rise to a horse with unmistakable physical characteristics and temperament.
The Carthusian Horse is synonymous with:
- Elegance: Proud bearing, harmonious movements, and undeniable beauty.
- Nobility: A docile and intelligent character, ideal for classical dressage.
- Purity: A genetic line strictly preserved over the centuries.
Today, the preservation of this lineage is primarily carried out at the Yeguada de la Cartuja - Hierro del Bocado, very near the monastery, where thousands of visitors from all over the world come every year to admire these magnificent animals.
How to Visit the Origin of the Carthusian Horse: Yeguada de la Cartuja - Hierro del Bocado
To get a close look at the descendants of those horses bred by the monks, a visit to the Yeguada de la Cartuja - Hierro del Bocado is essential. Located on the Finca Fuente del Suero, this stud farm is home to the primary genetic reserve of the Carthusian Horse.
What the Visit Offers: Equestrian exhibitions (known as "How the Carthusian Horses Dance"), visits to the stables, seeing the foals and mares, and a deep immersion in the history and present of this breed.
Experience: It is a visual and emotional spectacle that showcases the skill of the riders and the intelligence and beauty of the horses.
Important: Check their official website for schedules and availability, as exhibitions usually take place on specific days of the week.
Your Accommodation in Jerez: The Ideal Base for Exploring Equestrian Heritage
After a day immersing yourself in history, the spirituality of La Cartuja, and the elegance of the Carthusian Horse, there is nothing like returning to a place where you feel at home.
Our Antonio Parra Tourist Apartments, in the historic San Mateo district, offer you the comfort, charm, and perfect location to explore all that Jerez has to offer, including its fascinating equestrian world. We are just a step away from the center, from where you can easily travel to the La Cartuja area and the Yeguada.