The Asturian, a rare breed of horse found mainly in Northern Spain and particularly in the Asturias and in Galicia, is a popular choice among horse breeders for packing and riding purposes. Recently, the breed has come close to extinction but associations were formed for its protection.

 

Physical Characteristics

 

This horse has a small head, small ears, large eyes, and a long, thin neck. The beauty of the Asturian, however, lies in its long, flowing mane. Standing at about 11.2 to 12.2 hands high (44-48 inches, 112-122 centimeters), the Asturian is strong with slightly high-set withers, sloping shoulders and croup, and low set tail.

 

Although the Asturian is most commonly seen in black, it is sometimes seen in bay. However, it should never have any white markings.

 

Personality and Temperament

 

The Asturian has a calm temperament, which it inherited from its ancestor, the Spanish Sorraia. It is this temperament that makes it an ideal mount for ladies.

 

History and Background

 

The Asturian originated from the Northwestern part of Spain. Most experts believe it developed from crossbreeding the Sorraia horse from the Iberian Peninsula and the Garrano found in Portugal and Spain. It is also believed that the Celtic Pony also contributed something to the genetic makeup of the Asturian since it has an ambling gait, which is neither a trait in the Sorraia nor the Garrano.

 

Referred to by the Romans as asturcones, it was popular with the French during the Middle Ages because of its easy, comfortable ride. Unlike most other horses, the Asturian (or Haubini among the French) had an ambling gait and an usual trot. As a result, the Asturian became a horse for women rather than men, a veritable "Hobby Horse."

 

Today the Asturian is found high in the Asturian mountains, such as the Sierra de Sueve, but the largest group is concentrated in the western part of Asturia.