Bardigiano
Intro
During WWII Italian Bardigiano mares were used to produce mules to feed the war and in the process nearly decimated the pureblood of the breed.
Origins
The origin of this breed comes from the horses of Belgian Gauls who invaded Italy during Roman times. The same ancestor thought to produce the Haflinger. The Bardigiano also shows physical similarities to the Exmoor and Dales ponies and the Asturcon.
After WWII stallions of several different breeds were introduced to the area and the bloodlines became even more diluted, as did the specific traits of the original breed.
However small herds of pureblood animals were found, preserved by mountain agriculturists in the area. In 1977 the breed was officially recognized in an attempt to preserve and document their bloodlines.
Features
Average height 13.2 – 14.1 hands
Small and sturdy
Physique
Head is light, has a slightly concave profile, and a jutting upper lip
Neck is arched with a wide base and thick crest
Medium length back
Legs are slim and strong
Hooves are large and very hard
Traditional Colors
Temperament
Docile nature and easy to work with
Great children’s horse
Use
Mountain trekking
Horse therapy
Show horses
Meat
Pleasure horse