Asturian

An extremely rare breed of horse, the Asturian is small, with a heavy head and a straight profile.  They have moderately high withers and a long deck with an extremely flowing mane that often grows to cover their eyes.  the Asturian originated in Northern Span and stands about 11-12 hands in height.

The Romans referred to the Asturian as asturcons, and the horses were popular during hte Middle Ages with the French.  The horses do not really trot, but rather they move with an easy gait and alternately move their legs on one side.  This gait makes the Asturian a comfortable riding horse, and have been popular as ladies' mounts.  Sometimes referred to as a "hobby horse" throughout Ireland, France and England, the breed is admired greatly.

Many believe the Asturian is a breed developed from crossing a Garrano pony from Portugal and Spain with the Sorraia, a saddle horse of Iberia.