Origin
Austria
History
The name Noriker is derived from the state of Noricum, a vassal province of the Roman Empire corresponding roughly to present-day Austria. The southern borders of Noricum were adjacent to the lands of the venetii, a people noted as skilled horse breeders , who had certainly occupied that area since 900 BC. These areas later became the home of the Haflinger pony, and there is, therefore, a natural connection the two breeds.
The Norikerīs ancestors were probably based on the heavy warhorse produced in Juvavum (near Salzburg), which was also used for draft and pack.
By the Middle Ages, a smallish, heavy horse, compact and surefooted , suited to hard work in mountainous country, had been developed. The best were bred in the mountain region of Gross Glockner. From about 1565 the monasteries took control of breeding and the Norikerīs characteristics were regularized and improved. Under the Prince Archbishop of Salzburg, the Salzburg Stud Book was established, new stud farms were created, and standards were laid down. Neapolitan, Burgudian, and Spanish blood increased the Norikerīs size, and by the 18th century a spotted coat pattern, the result of crosses with Spanish spotted strains was evident, particularly in the Pinzgau district of Austria. This resulted in the term Pinzgauer-Noriker.
In the course of time, breeding of the Noriker has been fixed on the most valuable bloodlines: Volcano, Nero, Diamond, Schaunitz, and Elmar.
Norikers must meet strict conformational breed standards, and are performance tested. The breed standards are strictly enforced, and include inspection and performance testing for stallions and mares.
Description
- Conformation:
-the defined withers and good shoulders account for the trotting action
-the quarters are strong and symmetrical with the tail well-set, but there is no heaviness. The overall outline is compact
-the hind legs are marked by strong gaskins and are correctly set with the hocks well let-down
-the hooves are sound, and the joints are large and clean - Average height:
15.1 to 16.3 h.h. - Colours:
there are distinct color lines, including dappled and brindle coat patterns; black-headed dapple-gray; brown; and shades of chestnut - Temperament:
adaptable, willing, tame character - Today:
thanks to the wide range of possibilities for use as a work horse, parade horse, for equestrian acrobatics, and in meat production, the Noriker is still very popular in Austria. This horse also renders excellent service as a riding horse, as is demonstrated by the large number of Noriker riding groups. During the last years there has been an ever increasing demand for Noriker horses, especially for lumber work in the Alpine regions. At times there is no alternative, as heavy machines cannot climb the steep terrain. Working with horses is not only more economical, at least in certain areas, but also more ecologically sound. Horses neither pollute the air nor damage trees and soil as heavy machinery does.
