The Murgese Horse in front of my lens

Lately I had the chance to meet a breed I haven't heard much of before, but was blown away by its beauty and mind: The Murgese horse, a robust and versatile breed originating from Italy. It has a beautiful history intertwined with the culture and landscape of the Apulia region, in the very south of Italy. Known for its endurance, strength, and adaptability, the Murgese is a simply amazing breed and absolutely worth to learn more about.

History of the Murgese

The roots of the Murgese breed trace back to the Middle Ages, specifically to the Murge plateau in Apulia, southern Italy. This region's harsh terrain and climate played a significant role in shaping the breed's characteristics. The Murgese horse likely descended from ancient equine populations introduced by various conquering civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Normans. These historical influences combined with the natural selection pressures of the Murge plateau to produce a horse of remarkable resilience and versatility.

The Murgese breed began to take shape in its more recognizable form during the Norman period in the 11th century. Norman knights needed robust and agile horses for their cavalry, leading to selective breeding that focused on these traits. The infusion of Arabian, Barb, and Andalusian blood further refined the Murgese, enhancing its endurance, agility, and distinctive appearance.

The breed faced significant challenges during the 19th and early 20th centuries, as wars and changing agricultural practices threatened its survival. However, dedicated breeders and the Italian government undertook efforts to preserve the Murgese, recognizing its historical and cultural significance. A formal breeding program was established in the early 20th century, which helped stabilize and promote the breed. Luckily, I would say! It would have been such a pity to see these horses go extinct.

Breeding Goals

The primary goal of Murgese breeding programs has always been to maintain and enhance the breed's distinctive traits: strength, endurance, and versatility. Breeders aim to produce horses that are not only physically robust but also possess a calm and cooperative temperament, making them suitable for a variety of uses. This part was the one, that amazed me the most, when I met Rubino, the horse on these pictures. He just had a long travel behind him, including being presented at a big fair, and he was just 3 days with his new owner. Yet he was such a friendly horse, and willing to model for me with such ease. And this as a three-year-old horse, not long ago gelded and in a new environment.

Murgese horses are known for their strong, compact build. They have a well-proportioned body with a broad chest, muscular hindquarters, and sturdy legs with strong hooves. The breed’s head is often characterized by a straight or slightly convex profile, expressive eyes (just look at them!), and small, alert ears. The Murgese's coat color is predominantly black or dark bay, often with a shiny, almost metallic sheen, a trait inherited from its Andalusian ancestors.

In terms of temperament, the Murgese is known for being intelligent, willing, and even-tempered. These characteristics make them suitable for various equestrian activities, including dressage, driving, and general riding. Especially in the scene of baroque riding, the Murgese breed is very well settled. The breed's natural endurance and surefootedness also make it an excellent choice for trail riding and working in challenging terrains.

Modern breeding programs continue to emphasize these qualities while also focusing on improving the breed's athletic abilities and versatility. Selective breeding aims to produce horses that can excel in competitive equestrian sports while still retaining the hardiness and reliable temperament that have long been hallmarks of the Murgese. Qualities, that seem to have a lower priority in pure sports breeding, but that are so important to keep up in my opinion.

Current State

Today, the Murgese horse enjoys a renewed appreciation both within Italy and internationally. The breed's versatility and adaptability have made it a popular choice for a variety of equestrian disciplines, from dressage and show jumping to trail riding and even therapeutic riding programs. In Italy, the Murgese is often used in traditional equestrian events and historical reenactments, where its striking appearance and historical significance are on full display. The breed is also employed in agricultural work and as a riding horse for both leisure and sport.

The Italian government and various breed associations continue to support and promote the Murgese. The breed's studbook, established in 1926, is meticulously maintained to ensure the purity and quality of the breed. The Associazione Italiana Allevatori Cavalli di Razza Murgese (AIA) plays a crucial role in overseeing breeding standards, organizing events, and promoting the breed both domestically and abroad.

The Murgese horse stands as a testament to Italy's rich equestrian heritage. From its ancient origins on the rugged Murge plateau to its modern role in diverse equestrian disciplines, the Murgese has continually adapted and thrived. Through careful breeding and dedicated preservation efforts, this remarkable breed continues to embody the strength, endurance, and beauty that have defined it for centuries. As it gains recognition on the global stage, the Murgese's legacy as a versatile and resilient horse is assured for generations to come.

As of the latest data available, the population of Murgese horses is relatively small, reflecting their status as a niche but valued breed. The estimated number of Murgese horses is around 2,000 to 3,000. This population is primarily concentrated in Italy, particularly in the Apulia region, where the breed originated and is actively maintained. Efforts by breeders and associations aim to preserve and promote the Murgese, ensuring its continued presence and growth. The population figures can fluctuate based on breeding activities, conservation efforts, and demand for the breed both domestically and internationally.

The Legacy of the Murgese Horse

This breed deeply impressed me, and I am looking forward to learn more about these horses in the future. I dearly hope that the breeding program will continue on this great path of keeping up the old standards and focus on a durable, well minded horse. For that we can enjoy these stunning horses for many more centuries in the future.