Maremmana Horse

Though the origins of the Maremmana are unclear, they are red in Tuscany and are likely based on Neapolitan blood, derived from Spanish, Arab, and Barb stock for which Renaissance Italy was renowned. Later, in the 19th century, the local animals would also have benefited from being crossed with English imports, notably the Norfolk Roadsters) and probably with half-bred stallions as well. There were several studs in the province of Maremma, and although some bred horses with semi-feral ancestry, they all made use of these English crosses as a means of upgrading the often coarse local stock.

It seems that the Maremmana developed as a distinctive type at the stud at Grosseto, where it was bred to be a heavy saddle or light draught horse. It has been described as "rustic", and is by no means handsome, but it is solid, enduring, very steady, and surprisingly versatile. It is a hardy animal, economical to feed, and well-suited to light agricultural work. In the past it was also a reliable troop horse, and was used in large numbers by both the cavalry and the police. The Maremmana's principal claim to fame,
wever, is that it is ridden by the butteri, io are the herdsmen or cowboys of the )man countryside, and is much esteemed its natural ability to work cattle.

The Maremmana is still common in appearance, though the use better-quality stallions, from the 1940s wards, resulted in offspring that have more correct limbs than the old type. Moreover, the horses that are used for herding cattle are notable for their strong hock joints ? an essential attribute for work of that nature. The Maremmana is not capabe of any great speed and does not have best shoulders, but its strength and good-natured, willing temperament make it suitable for various purposes. The average height is around 1.60 m (15.3 hh), and all solid coat colours can be found in the breed.