Bardigiano Pony
The
Bardigiano originated in Venetia, Italy in the mountainous region of Tuscany to
the south. The first information on the origin of these horses dates back to
1864, with a historical source which speaks of a quite homogeneous horse kind,
which was found in the area by the Apennine of the western Emilia up to the
Lunigiana.
It is believed that this breed is derived from Norcum, a vassal province of the Roman Empire. In Norcum the ancient breed of horse was known as Abellinum to the Romans and is represented today by the Haflinger and its closely related neighbor the Avelignese. The Bardiagiano has a distinct connection with the Avelignese. There is also mention of the Bardiagiano being linked with the Asturcon ponies and the Exmoor ponies, as they are similar in appearance. Modern Bardigiano today are primarily in the highlands of the northern Appenines, which lie between Venetia and Tuscany.
During the First and Second World Wars, Bardigiano mares were widely used in the
production of first-class mules, and this actually had the effect of reducing
the numbers of pure-bred Bardigianos. A number of stallions from a diverse range
of breeds were introduced to the stock after 1945, but this is now considered to
have been a mistake. The breed began to deteriorate and lose some of its
defining characteristics. In 1972, a committee was formed to try and establish
the old breed and this was successfully done.
Bardigianos are useful and attractive ponies. A working mountain pony much like the
Haflinger and the
Avelignese. As with all mountain breeds, they are very tough and enduring, as
well as being extremly surefooted. These ponies are made for work in the high altitudes on rough, steep
terrain. The Bardigiano are quick moving and are able to carry a
packsaddle and do light draft work. This mountainous environment that the Bardigiano lives and works in contributes significantly to the breed’s character
and physique.
The Bardigiano has short and sufficiently muscled strong legs, with very pronounced joints. The tail is thick and well-set on it’s round and heavy quarters. It’s body is built strongly, with a deep chest, allowing for large lungs. The shoulders are quite upright and short, but the withers are well defined. The head has small, neat ears and a broad forehead, with a real pony look. It is very sure footed, quick moving, hardy, and easy to keep.
It is a working mountain pony, and not very well known outside it’s breeding
area. Often used to carry packs. Temperament: They have very good, quiet
temperaments, making them excellent for trekking, and as children's ponies. This pony breed is
Potentially Endangered.