PROVINCIAL STUD FARM

The modern history of horse-breeding in Písek began in 1902, with the arrival of first breeding stallions to the newly built stud farm. The first account of a stud station in Písek comes from 1811; prior to that a stud farm was located in Švantlův Dvůr in the town.

The present stud farm complex was designed with regard to airy, spacious, and bright stables for breeding stallions. The complex includes a spacious indoor arena and outdoor riding space, insemination centre, isolation stable, and, of course, an opulent administrative building with apartments. The whole complex is a cultural monument.

The purpose of the stud farm has always been to provide stallions for breeders, whose requirements have changed over time, according to a particular use of horses, whether for military or farmers. To meet those requirements, the stud farm provided suitable breeding stallions both by local breeding, with adjoining foal stables, and by importing breeding stallions – large warm-blooded Oldenburg, Hannover, and Anglo-Norman stallions, as well as cold-blooded Belgian and Nordic stallions.

In recent years, the Provincial Stud Farm has become a very popular destination, organising numerous events with which it fully contributes to the social programme in Písek. Visitors should not miss the Breeding Day when the stud farm is open to the public. A very attractive event is the National Side-saddle Riding Championship, with charming women dressed in historical costumes showing their riding skills.