Salerno (horse breed)

The Salerno is a warmblooded horse of the Italian province of Salerno. It resulted from crossbreeding Andalusians and Neopolitans. This horse usually stands 16 to 17 hands high. These horses are usually a solid color of bay, black, or chestnut.

History

The Salerno was originally from Salerno, in Italy. There was no fixed breeding system for these horses until the 1780s. At that time, people began to selectively breed at the Persano Stud. The solid foundation base stock was made up of Neopolitan, Spanish, and Oriental blood. This breed was promoted by King Charles III, who was the King of Naples, and Spain.

Persano Stud

At the Persano Stud, a combination of the local stock and Lipizzaners were introduced to the Salerno breed. There were three stallions that were influential on Salernos at the stud. There names were Pluto, Conversano, and Napoletano. They are known as the foundation sires.

Because these horses were originally bred at Persano, they were known as Persano horses at first. The breed developed into a good quality riding horse that was similar to its Spanish ancestors.

The Persano Stud was closed in 1864, and people stopped breeding Persano horses there.

20th Century influences

During the 20th Century Hackney and Thoroughbred bloods were introduced. These new bloodlines helped the breed by making its size increase, and by refining it. The newly built Morese Stud became one of the most influential studs on the breed. It also was located close to the original Persano Stud.

Appearance

Salerno horses usually have a light and well-set head. They also have a long muscular neck. Their backs are generally well-proportioned. These horses have sloping shoulders, muscular quarters, and strong, slender legs. The main colors found, today, are bay, black, or chestnut. Lastly, Salernos stand from between 16 hands to 17 hands high.

Uses

The Salerno has become a first-class riding horse, and a cavalry mount. They also make superb sport horses, and have a good and natural jump.

Famous Salernos and riders

Two of the most famous Salerno horses are Merano and Posillipo. They were both ridden by Raimondo d'Inzeo. Raimondo rode Merano at the 1956 World Showjumping Championships, and led the team to victory. Posillipo led d'Inzeo to the gold at the 1960 Summer Olympics.