The National Stud Farms
The National Stud Farms were founded in 1665 by Prime Minister Colbert to supply Louis XIV with war horses.
After the Second World War, when horses fell from favour with farmers and the military, the Studs went through a period of crisis. In the 1960s, with the development of horse-racing and horse-riding as a leisure activity, they flourished once again. There are 23 National Stud Farms today, and their mission is to develop horse-breeding and equine activities.
No aspect escapes the attention of the National Studs, and they look after training, genetics, feed, statistics, hold a register monitoring national studs, as well as monitoring of economic activity relating to horses.



The Poitou-Charentes region is home to a draught horse, the Trait Poitevin, and the Poitou donkey. In 1846, the Haras National de Saintes (National Stud) was established in elegant and classical buildings in the heart of a 10 hectare park.
Dedicated to the preservation and improvement of breeds of riding and draught horses, it can accommodate up to 80 horses at livery. A number of traditional trades are connected with its work, such as those of farrier, saddler and stud groom.

Free visits during the winter from Monday to Friday, 2pm to 5pm.
Guided visits during the summer.

To find out more about the Stud: National Studs