Intro
Also called the Eleia, Ilia, or Greek, the Andravida is a rare and mysterious light draft breed found in the region of Ilia, Greece.
Origins
Their ancestors were cavalry horses used by the Athenians in the fourth century BC. Later, in the seventh century BC the Greek cavalry used the Andravida again for war. During times of peace the animals continued to be useful as a light draft for transport and carrying goods.
During the 13th to 15th centuries Arabian blood was used to refine the stock, which created the lighter animal known today.
Modern Andravida
Early in the 20th century the breed saw an influx of Anglo-Norman breeds. This combined with the fact that they have not traditionally been bred outside of Ilia means are very rare. In the 1990’s an Andravida stud sired around 50 healthy colts which were sent to breeders throughout Greece. This one animal may have saved the breed from extinction and became the foundation for the official studbook established in 1995. Their numbers remain very low and they are rarely found anywhere outside of Ilia even today.
Features
Average height 14 – 16 hands
Large, strong horse
Physique
Unremarkable head
Chest is deep and muscular
Legs are stocky and powerful
Traditional Colors
black | chestnut | bay | dun | palomino and buckskin
Temperament
Strong and willing draft type
Use
Riding horses
Work animals
Transportation