OUR STORY
ABOUT LUSITANO HERITAGE
Preserving Portugal’s Classical Equestrian Heritage
Lusitano Heritage was founded to preserve, share, and celebrate Portugal’s classical equestrian tradition through education, horsemanship, and cultural heritage.
Since the launch of Lusitano Heritage in 2010 we have welcomed riders from around the world to learn from Portugal’s classical masters, experience Lusitano horses, and discover the deeper principles that underpin true partnership.
Today Lusitano Heritage combines classical education, horse training, international clinics, horse sales, and cultural experiences, bringing together a team dedicated to excellence, integrity, and the welfare of horse and rider.
MEET THE TEAM
Teresa Burton
Founder & Director
Teresa Burton is the founder of Lusitano Heritage, a private classical riding centre dedicated to preserving and sharing Portugal’s rich equestrian heritage.
For more than fifteen years, Teresa has worked alongside some of Portugal’s most respected horsemen, breeders, and trainers, helping riders from around the world discover the Lusitano horse and the principles of classical horsemanship.
Her work combines a deep respect for tradition with a commitment to education, horse welfare, and authentic cultural experiences. Through Lusitano Heritage, she has created a place where riders can study, connect, and experience the living traditions that have shaped Portugal’s equestrian identity for generations.
Today, Teresa oversees the development of Lusitano Heritage’s educational programmes, horse sales, international partnerships, and cultural initiatives, bringing together a team united by a shared passion for excellence, integrity, and the preservation of classical riding.
Nuno Cavaco
Director, Classical Tecaher & Horseman
Nuno Cavaco is one of Portugal’s most respected classical horsemen, with more than thirty-five years of experience studying, riding, training, and teaching within the Portuguese classical tradition.
A former rider and teacher associated with the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, Nuno has spent decades refining his understanding of balance, collection, lightness, and communication between horse and rider. His education was shaped through years of work alongside some of Portugal’s most influential classical masters.
Known for his quiet, thoughtful approach, Nuno helps riders develop not only technical skill but also feel, timing, confidence, and understanding. His teaching focuses on the principles that underpin true classical riding, whether working in-hand, under saddle, or observing the progression of the horse’s training.
At Lusitano Heritage, Nuno leads the classical education programme, guiding riders through a structured pathway that honours both the horse’s wellbeing and the traditions of Portuguese equestrian art.
Mike Ferreira
Classical Rider & Trainer
Mike Ferreira is a classical rider and trainer formed within Portugal’s traditional school of horsemanship.
His education includes extensive study with respected Portuguese masters, including Francisco Grelo, a student of Mestre Nuno Oliveira, alongside further development under António Lopes Mateus, Joaquim Nobre Fernandes, Daniel Pinto, António Maria Brito Paes, and Luís Brito Paes.
Known for his calm, composed riding and sympathetic approach to training, Mike specialises in the progressive development of horses through the classical system. His work focuses on balance, straightness, confidence, and the correct gymnastic development of the horse.
At Lusitano Heritage, Mike works closely alongside Nuno Cavaco, contributing to rider education, horse training, demonstrations, and the ongoing development of horses within the classical programme.
Slavi
Head of Stable & Horse Welfare
Slavi oversees the daily care and wellbeing of the Lusitano Heritage horses, ensuring that every horse receives consistent, attentive, and professional management.
With a calm presence and exceptional attention to detail, he plays a vital role in maintaining the health, happiness, and routine of the horses entrusted to our care. From feeding and stable management to grooming and daily observation, his dedication supports every aspect of the horses’ welfare.
At Lusitano Heritage, we believe great horsemanship begins with great care, and Slavi’s commitment ensures that both horses and riders benefit from a safe, professional, and welcoming environment.
Our Extended Team
Ian Lopez
Wellness & Performance
Silvia Teixeira
Heritage Costume & Cultural Design
Lena Saugen
International Photography & Heritage Projects
Afonso Bordallo Rodrigues
Photography & Visual Storytelling
OUR VALUES
Heritage
We honour Portugal’s classical equestrian traditions, preserving the knowledge, culture, and horsemanship passed from one generation to the next.
Horse Welfare
The wellbeing of the horse guides every decision. True classical riding develops confidence, balance, strength, and partnership through patience and understanding.
Education
We believe classical horsemanship is a lifelong study. Our programmes are designed to develop riders who think, observe, question, and continue learning.
Authenticity
We value substance over spectacle. Our teaching is rooted in experience, lineage, and practical horsemanship rather than trends or shortcuts.
Stewardship
We are committed to protecting horses, landscapes, traditional crafts, and cultural heritage for future generations.
Community
Lusitano Heritage brings together riders, horsemen, artisans, historians, photographers, and enthusiasts from around the world through a shared respect for the horse and the traditions that surround it.
“We believe classical horsemanship is not simply a riding method, but a way of observing, learning, and building a deeper relationship with the horse. Through education, heritage, and stewardship, we seek to preserve this living tradition for future generations.”
“We believe classical horsemanship is not simply a riding method, but a way of observing, learning, and building a deeper relationship with the horse. Through education, heritage, and stewardship, we seek to preserve this living tradition for future generations.”