Ireland's Horse History

Ireland has a long history which evolved around horses. They used them for a variety of things, including racing, riding, and drawing chariots. Horses were often imported and the ones from France and Wales were highly prized. During the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries the Irish horse called hobbies were known all over Europe. They were held in high esteem for their easy gait and disposition.

During these times the Irish did not use saddles. The higher class of Irish used a thick cloth which was called a dillat that they sat on when riding. It would be more than two hundred years before the Irish used saddles. Today the Irish use the name dialluid for a saddle. Their bridles were often elaborately decorated with gold, silver and red enamel.

The Irish in ancient times did not use spurs. Instead they used a rod with a hooked goad on the end to urge and guide their horses. They often used a whip too. All riders were trained to spring from the ground on to the back of the horse. It was also deemed necessary for every young man who was in the upper classes to be taught how to ride a horse. It was considered so important that it was even stated in the Brehon Law.

The Irish protected their horse's hoofs by a shoe and it was called a cru. The common people in ancient Ireland did not generally use the horse for riding. However, the nobles rode often and were very proud of their steeds. The horse was trained for sporting purposes. Mainly they were trained to be racing horses.

Horses played a big part in Ireland's past and are still are a big part of Ireland's culture today.

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