BelTerra was founded in 1997 with construction of paddocks, arenas and granary. Design and construction of the house followed in 1999-2000. The site comprises twenty lushly-seeded and landscaped acres where many pure Spanish and Friesian foals have been born over the years. The facilities have also been the location for years of training, riding and carriage driving as well as for special events benefiting multiple charities. Spanish immersion afternoons for middle-schoolers provided hands-on interaction with the horses, goats and other farm animals.

We have specialized in what are called “Baroque” horses, all breeds descended from Iberian horses including the Pure Spanish horse and the Friesian at our farm as well as Lippizanners and Lusitanos, originally from Portugal. The “Baroque” breeds were designated as such since their development coincided with the period in 17th & 18th century Europe when the art of horsemanship as art was being developed to its highest degree, and all kings and nobles coveted the effortless collection and high airs exhibited by the spirited Spanish horse being perfected through the patronage of Phillip the 2nd and under later kings as well. Every king of note from Francois 1st of France to Charles the 2nd of England and lesser nobles all had to have their portraits done mounted on a magnificent Spanish stallion.

 BelTerra carried on in a small way the Baroque tradition with its own mounted exhibitors dressed in 18th costumes, presenting period music with commentaries in French, Spanish or English. We are proud of both the horses we have brought into the world and of the bit of cultural history we have been able to give as our gift to the community over the years. BelTerra also wishes to congratulate all the owners of BelTerra offspring who are now excelling in dressage or in other disciplines. In the Gallery and Family sections please take a look at some of our horses, activities and archival family photos which will change every few months. Thanks for stopping by !

   

Cynthia & Gary Vasques
W132 N12083 Mary Buth Lane
Germantown, WI 53022

Stables/Office: (262) 242-1932
Fax: (262) 242-1965
Email: belterra1@aol.com