Gallic Lands
Images from the Highlands of Scotland and Northwestern Ireland
Print Information
Connemara Pony in Western Ireland
The Connemara pony is a pony breed originating in Ireland. They are known for their athleticism, versatility and good disposition. The breed makes excellent show ponies. The Connemara region in County Galway in western Ireland, where the breed first became recognized as a distinct type, in a very harsh landscape, thus giving rise to a pony breed of hardy, strong individuals. Some believe that the Connemara developed from Scandinavian ponies that the Vikings first brought to Ireland. Another source was likely the Irish Hobby, a now-extinct breed established prior to the 13th century. Legend, however, says that galleons from the Spanish Armada ran aground in 1588, and the Andalusians on board were set loose. The Spanish horses bred with the native stock, refining the local ponies. For additional strength and stamina, Arabian blood was added in the 18th century.
In late summer, purple heather blossoms cover many of the hills and fields of Ireland. Sheep, deer and cattle graze on it, especially in winter. In the past it was used to dye wool. It's considered great luck to find a white heather blossom.
Help
