Lexington, in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region, is the second-largest city in Kentucky and known as the "Horse Capital of the World”. Lexington has been a major centre for Thoroughbred breeding since the late 18th century due to the high calcium content in the soils which leads to stronger bones and greater durability in horses.
By 1820, Lexington was one of the largest and wealthiest towns west of the Allegheny Mountains. So cultured was its lifestyle that the city gained the nickname "Athens of the West".
Today, with its abundance of government and technology jobs, Lexington has one of the nation's most stable economies and is very strong in manufacturing and technology. Also thriving in the Arts, Lexington is home to a professional orchestra, two ballet companies, professional theatre, several museums and a highly respected opera program at the University of Kentucky.