Diversity

About Galiceno HorsesAbout Galiceno Horses



Galiceno horses were developed in Mexico, from horses imported by Hernan Cortes, mostly thought to be Portuguese Garrano and Galician Ponies of Spain. It is thought that Sorraia blood was added at some point in the breed's history. The ancestors of the Galiceno were among sixteen horses landed by Cortes during his Mexican invasion in 1519 for use in the mines and as transport. During the rest of the 16th century, conquistadors continued to bring horses into what is now Mexico, including many small-framed, smooth-gaited horses. Many of these horses eventually escaped or were released and formed feral bands in Mexico's mountainous interior. Over the next few centuries, local inhabitants began to catch and use horses from the increasing populations; the type that eventually became the Galiceno was especially prized in coastal regions. Galicenos were used by Spaniards in silver mines and as pack horses; in the latter role they moved further northward with the Spanish missions and were sometimes lost in battle or stolen by Indians. These horses eventually became part of the Mustang herds of the American West, as well as playing a role in the ancestry of the American Indian Horse.  

Although small in stature, they are generally considered a horse, rather than a pony, and are always solid-colored. In Mexico, they are an all-around horse, used for riding, packing and light draft. In the United States they are often used as mounts for younger competitors, although they are also found competing in Western events.  

Galicenos are extremely gentle in nature and easy to handle. With such good disposition they are an excellent family horse. From the time of the conquistadors the Galiceno has performed conceivable tasks and has accomplished each with a remarkable native intelligence. Galicenos are bright, alert, and very quick to learn.  

All solid colors are accepted for registration while albinos or pintos are not allowed. Their head shows refinement with good width between the eyes, pointed ears, a large, lively eye, and a small muzzle; their neck is slightly arched with a clean throat latch and fits smoothly into the withers, which are prominent. Their body is smoothly muscled; the back short and straight; the croup slightly sloped with a moderately high tail-set. Their hind quarters are set slightly more under the body than other breeds; their joints are strong and well shaped; their shoulder is well sloped, giving a long stride; their forelegs have well muscled forearms.