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Albanian Horse
The Albanian is a small Balkan Horse. There are two types of
native Albanian horses, which are referred to as Mountain and Myzeqea
(plains). Through the recent years interbreeding between the two types
has made the distinction less clear. Traditionally the Mountain type on
average is about 12.2 to 12.3 hands while the Myzeqea is larger standing
at 13.2 hands.
Albanian History
Illyrians, also known as Indo-Europeans, are ancient
inhabitants of the area who overran the northwest part of the Balkan
peninsula around the fifth century B.C. The Serbians settled there
during the seventh century A.D. and were overpowered by the Turks in
1386. During the Ottoman Empire, a great deal of
Arabian blood was infused into the local
horses, which were likely various combination of
Tarpan, Turkmenian, and
Mongolian stock. The Albanian
knighthood of Skanderbeg was a rear force for this national hero,
terrifying the Osman invaders (Ottoman Empire) and bringing honor and
glory to the country.
Known for its freedom of movement, agility in difficult terrain, disease
resistance, and endurance, the Albanian Horses were used more for
transport and riding than for agricultural purposes in the past.
Measures were taken to promote and increase the number of Albanian
horses and to improve them for agricultural work in the early 1990's.
The improved breeds are concentrated in large breeding centers such as
the Zootechnic Station at Shkodra and at specialized farms where
stallions are produced for
improving local horses. Since 1980 there has been a great increase in
number of horses in Albania.
Albanian Horses Today
The Albanian Breeder's goals today are concentrated to
increase the number and improvement of Albanian Horses. Purebred
Arabians, Nonius, and
Haflinger horses are crossed with the
native Albanian and several improved types are emerging. The native
horse of Albania has few disadvantages of quality, the main need being
increased size for better agricultural work.
Albanian Characteristics
The Myzeqea is great to ride for long distances and is
exceptionally strong for its size and many have an easily ridden ambling
gait. The Albanian Horses are a hardy efficient breed. They are often
used as carriage horses as well as for riding and light draft.
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