Horses in the Middle Ages differed in size, build and breed from the modern horse, and were, on average, smaller. They were also more central to society than their modern counterparts, being essential for war, agriculture, and transport. Consequently, specific types of horse developed, many of which have no modern equivalent.

Learn more about medieval horses. What did they eat? Where did they live? And how were horses classified and measured in the middle ages?

Horses were often depicted in medieval art and literature. They were a symbol of strength and nobility, and were often used to represent important figures such as kings and knights. Horses were also featured in medieval tournaments, where knights would joust against each other using lances while riding on horseback.

Oct 1, 2023 · The most common medieval war horse breeds were the Friesian, Andalusian, Arabian, and Percheron. These horse breeds we’re a mixture of heavy breeds ideal for carrying armored knights, and lighter breeds for hit and run or fasting moving warfare.

Oct 19, 2022 · Medieval horses were a vital part of feudal society. They were integral to agriculture, transportation, and battle strategies. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at horses in medieval times and explore some of the ways they were used.

Dec 11, 2020 · The destrier was the most valued medieval horse type and were renowned for their capabilities in warfare and the joust. They were well trained, tall, majestic, and strong and were always stallions because of their extra musculature and aggressiveness.

Dec 14, 2024 · The thundering charge of knights on horseback is one of the most iconic images of medieval warfare. Yet, behind this spectacle lay the laborious and meticulous care for the warhorses that made these campaigns possible.

Jul 27, 2013 · Although the importance of the horse in the medieval European civilization is known and recognized, given it’s central function in the definition of the identity of the dominant classes and the prominent role that the cavalry held in the military until at least the fourteenth century, we unfortunately know little about the equestrian ...

Uncover the role of horses in the Middle Ages, from medieval warfare and transportation to their symbolic significance in chivalry and culture.

It discusses the evidence for the size of medieval horses and includes a survey of finds of medieval horse skeletons from London. It answers the key questions, how large a 'Great Horse' was, and why it took three horses to pull a cart.