The Murgese in the world
Thanks to important selection work by breeders, the market for the Murgese horse has spread throughout Europe. In the last ten years, in fact, many specimens have been sold in the various Italian regions, but also in many European countries, such as Great Britain, Germany, France, Switzerland and Spain. Furthermore, after the Murgese’s participation in various international equestrian events, many appreciations have also arrived from enthusiasts in the United States and Australia, who are beginning to show particular interest in this magnificent breed.
The uses of the Murgese horse
in history
Looking back at the history of the Murgese horse, we see that it has always been a horse used for different purposes. Among its ancestors, we find horses bred to be used in battle, horses used by brigands to flee swiftly through the ancient Apulian woods, horses used in field work or attached to pull the typical Traini or simpler small service attachments, such as the ‘sciarretta’, a small buggy.
If we look around now, we can see many Murgesi at work in the most diverse fields.
There are Murgesi employed in the forces of law and order: from simple patrol services in cities such as Milan, to services with the Carabinieri forest rangers (from whom the Murgese horse is also directly bred in the marvellous setting of the Masseria Galeone in Martina Franca), to the riot services of the State Police, to the service of representation in the corps of the Corazzieri a Cavallo.
We find Murgesi competing in dressage, at any level, under the saddle of international, national or amateur riders.
international, national or simple amateurs. Lately there are also Murgesi that are used in the basic categories in show jumping, thanks to the efforts of local riders, and more and more are employed in riding schools. One can see Murgesians with the English saddle, but also American. Not to mention the numerous specimens used in bouts.
Murgesi in some of the most famous Italian circuses.
Murgese, a great many of them, going on simple walks or more demanding treks. Murgesi nei centri di riabilitazione equestre. Murgesi in equestrian rehabilitation centres. Above all, reliable Murgesi companions of humans, who have realised their dream of having a horse of their own with them.