Intro
During WWII Italian Bardigiano mares were used to produce mules to feed the war & 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 & Dales ponies, as well the Asturcon. This is a small horse native to the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, taking their name from the town of Bardi in the Apennines of Parma. The local terrain is steep & mountainous which has contributed to a robust, hardy animal that is agile & sure-footed.
After WWII stallions of several different breeds were introduced to the area & the bloodlines became even more diluted, as did the specific traits of the original breed.
A Pure Strain
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 & document their bloodlines. The official stud book was also established, held by the the regional animal breeders’ association of Parma, Associazione Provinciale Allevatori.
Modern Bardigiano
The Bardigiano is widely distributed in Italy, with breeders in 26 different Italian provinces. While the breed isn’t at risk for extinction, they are classed as ‘vulnerable’. In 1994, the breed standard was modified with the intention of increasing the suitability of the Bardigiano as a saddle horse while preserving its character.
Features
Average height 13.2 – 14.1 hands
Small and sturdy
Physique
Head is light, has a slightly concave profile & a jutting upper lip
Neck is arched with a wide base & thick crest
Medium length back
Legs are slim & strong
Hooves are large & very hard
Traditional Colors
Temperament
Docile nature & easy to work with
Great children’s horse
Use
Mountain trekking
Horse therapy
Show horses
Meat
Pleasure horse