The modern Alter Real of Portugal has made it through a number of difficulties in its three hundred year history. All the while, it has managed to maintain a most loyal following, even in times when their numbers were scarce. In fact, if it had not been for the small group of enthusiasts dedicated to the Alter Real, the breed would have met with extinction just as many other varieties of horse from that time. Their beauty, grace, and sensitivity has survived very much intact and allowed them to be grouped with other noble breeds of the Baroque Horse category.
The breed is deeply intertwined with Portugal's history and culture and is commonly seen in a number of ceremonies throughout Portugal and parts of Spain. Equestrian schools for classical dressage are located in Portugal where the Alter Real often takes center stage. To create proceeds to support the schools, specially trained groups of handlers and their rides tour the globe dazzling spectators with the precision movements of the Alter Real. The groups may even travel with those trained to handle other similar horse breeds, such as the Lipizzan. The shows only confirm the reputation of the Portuguese as superior horsemen.
The Alter Real often performs shows and ceremonies in the same costumes and gear specially created for them in the eighteenth century. This adds a realistic and dramatic flair by giving spectators a look back in time. Handlers are clad in period dress as well, showing more of the long established horse handling traditions that have stood the test of time. Just as they have from the beginning, the Alter Real hops, skips, and jumps all to the delight of the crowd. They perform amazing leaps and stand in beautiful poses that notably demonstrate the flexion they are renowned for.
As they were first bred to pull carriages, the compact but muscular Alter Real can also be found doing light agricultural work. This can be pulling carts or other similar tasks. They still do professional carriage work as well but are mostly used for riding. Their intelligence and sensitivity require an experienced rider and the breed is often seen at equestrian schools. Not only are they there for training, they are there to train riders as well. As the Alter Real is not considered a commonplace riding horse, anyone who can work with this breed has the honor of being deemed with advanced skills.
The Alter Real is the pride of a country who has worked extensively to preserve a valuable piece of its heritage. There is not a large number of the breed in existence but there does not need to be. Those who care for Portugal's pride have developed a healthy, strong, and vital stock. Had it not been for the breed's utterly unique physical abilities, it is doubtful the Alter Real would have survived the many troubles that it did. Nowadays, the breed works in the modern world by giving others a look into a great country's history.
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