Horse
Breed Description:
The Messara breed of horse (also known as the Cretan or Jorkalidiko) is a light draft and riding horse from the island of Crete, off the Grecian coast. Messaras are typically used for light farm work and for transportation, as well as for riding and racing. The Messara breed of horse is almost extinct. At the 1997 counting, there were only 67 purebred Messaras on the island. The main colors of the Messara breed of horse are bay, brown, black, and gray. Descendants of Arabian horses, they have a unusual natural pacing gait that is easy and comfortable to ride. They are quite sure-footed, and are adept at walking on rocky ground and uneven surfaces.
Height:
The Messara breed of horse usually stands 12.2 to 14.0 hands high.
Origin:
The origins of the Messara breed of horse are unclear. The native mountain-type Messara pony is believed to have existed on the island of Crete since at least the year 1000 or longer. The more modern Messaras may have been developed by crossing the native mares on Arabian stallions that were imported during the Turkish occupation in the 17th century. The Messara breed of horse is now a rare breed, protected by the European Community. 