The Menorquín horse is a very versatile breed that can be used for many purposes.
They are known for their gentle temperament, good health, and strong work ethic.
If you’re thinking about adding a Menorquín horse to your herd, here’s everything you need to know!
Menorquín Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Menorquín:
| Height (size) | 15.2 – 16.3 hands high |
| Colors | Always black, and only small white markings are allowed |
| Country of Origin | Spain (Menorca island) |
| Common Uses | Dressage, show riding, Doma Menorquina |
Menorquín Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
The Menorquin horse is native to the Balearic island of Menorca, and it is closely connected with the Doma Menorquina style of riding.
Doma Menorquina is a kind of classical dressage that combines elements of Haute école (Airs above the ground) with Doma vaquera riding style.
Only in 1987 was the Menorquin Horse formally recognized as a distinct breed, even though the local people have been using them for centuries.
These horses are very well suited to their environment on the island, and for hundreds of years they were used for light agricultural labor, cattle work, driving, and riding.
Their origins are quite unknown, however they are thought to be a cross between the Barb, Arabian, P.R.E (Andalusian) and Lusitano in varied degrees throughout hundreds of years.
For centuries, horses and their riders have been at the heart of local festivities, which integrate aspects of Christian, pagan and Moorish ritual into their celebrations.
Riders make their way through the crowd while simultaneously performing caracoles and the bot; the applause of the audience increases proportionately with both the distance traveled and the number of times the bot is done (the bot is when a horse walks on his hind legs).
A unique saddle with a sturdy cantle helps the riders to remain secure in their seat.
As part of Menorca’s traditional celebrations held on saints’ days, these maneuvers are carried out in the middle of dense crowds, with spectators pushing to get close enough to the horses to touch them, an act that is believed would bring good luck.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
n/a
Temperament/Personality
Calm, courageous, intelligent, curious, obedient, adaptable
Physical Characteristics
The head is elegant and long with expressive eyes, and wide nostrils.
The neck is muscular and slightly arched.
The shoulders are round and long.
The back is strong and straight.
The hindquarters are powerful.
The legs are long, and the hooves are solid.
The tail is thick and set low, and their mane is abundant and long.
It is a quick and agile breed with great endurance.
Their movements are smooth, well-balanced, light, and elevated, which makes them not only comfortable to ride but also well suited to the sport of dressage.
Colors
Always black, and only small white markings are allowed
Height (size)
15.2 – 16.3 hands high
Stallions
n/a
Mares
n/a
Weight
Average 1,100 lbs (500 kg)
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Dressage, show riding, Doma Menorquina
Health
n/a
Popular Traits
As part of Doma Menorquina they perform the bot, a figure when a horse walks on his hind legs
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
Spain (Menorca island)
Ancestors
Speculated: Barb, Arabian, P.R.E (Andalusian), Lusitano