The popular image of massive warhorses carrying knights often shapes our understanding of medieval equines. However, historical and archaeological evidence reveals a different reality: horses during the Middle Ages were generally smaller than many modern breeds. This size difference reflects the distinct environmental conditions, breeding practices, and societal needs of the time.
True Dimensions of Medieval Horses
Contrary to popular depictions, most medieval horses, including warhorses, were not the towering beasts often imagined. Research indicates they stood less than 14.2 hands (4 feet 10 inches) tall at the shoulder, the maximum height of a modern pony. For context, some modern horse breeds exceed 17 to 19 hands (over 6 feet). Even warhorses, known as destriers, were typically 14.2 to 15 hands (58 to 60 inches) by the 11th century, reaching about 15 to 15.2 hands (60 to 62 inches) by the 13th century.
One of the largest medieval horses discovered archaeologically, from Trowbridge Castle, measured only about 15 hands, which today would be considered a small riding horse. This suggests that while some larger horses existed, they were outliers and would have been perceived as very large by medieval people. The average medieval horse was closer in proportion to breeds like the Mongolian wild horse.
Influences on Horse Size
Several factors contributed to the generally smaller stature of medieval horses. Nutrition and diet played a significant role. Medieval horses primarily subsisted on forage, such as hay and grass, supplemented with grains like barley and oats. The quality and availability of feed varied, and was not as consistently rich or scientifically managed as modern equine diets. This limited nutritional intake likely restricted their growth potential.
Breeding practices also influenced horse size. While selective breeding occurred, it focused less on achieving sheer bulk than on other desirable traits like temperament, agility, or suitability for specific tasks. Medieval breeding records were not as systematic as modern pedigrees, with horses often identified by purpose or origin rather than distinct breeds. Uncontrolled breeding could also have hindered the development of consistently larger horses. Environmental conditions, including climate and terrain, also played a part, as horses adapted to the resources and demands of their local environments.
Specialized Roles and Varying Builds
Medieval horses were not a uniform group; their physical characteristics varied significantly based on their specialized roles. Horses were categorized by intended use, not modern breed distinctions. For instance, “chargers” were warhorses, “palfreys” were riding horses, and there were also cart horses and packhorses.
Destriers, often considered the most prized warhorses, were renowned for their strength and agility, enabling them to carry armored knights. While the largest medieval horse type, they were generally smaller than modern draft horses. Palfreys, favored for riding and long-distance travel, were valued for comfortable gaits like the amble, and were typically smaller, around 12 to 14 hands. Coursers were lighter, faster horses used for battle and hunting, while rounceys served as versatile, general-purpose horses for riding, war, or packing. These diverse roles led to a range of sizes and builds, each optimized for its function.
Methods for Determining Past Horse Size
Determining the size of horses from centuries past relies on scientific and historical methods. Archaeologists analyze horse bones and skeletal measurements recovered from historical sites, including castles and medieval horse cemeteries. This osteological analysis provides direct physical evidence of their dimensions. Comparing these ancient remains to modern horse skeletons clarifies how medieval horses measured up.
Historical records also contribute to this understanding, though often with limitations for precise measurement. Contemporary texts, illustrations, and stable records offer insights into horse sizes and types. For example, depictions in the Bayeux Tapestry support archaeological findings that medieval warhorses were not exceptionally large. However, these historical accounts can be subjective, and words describing horse sizes, like “great horse,” might refer to qualities other than just height or weight.