May 2024
WRITTEN BY DANIELÉ BAUBLYTÉ
The Kladruber
Breed
The Kladruber horse is one of the oldest horse breeds in the world. The name "Kladruber" originates from the Kladruby nad Labem village (Kladruby = hew the logs) in the Czech Republic which indicates that the very first settlers of the area used their horses for woodcutting.
In 1579, the stud farm of Kladruby nad Labem was established by the Habsburg Emperor – Rudolf II, and specialized in breeding Kladruber horses specifically for ceremonial purposes of rulers. As of today, the National Stud of Kladruby nad Labem remains one of the oldest stud farms in the world while being the founding home to one of the oldest Czech indigenous breeds of horses.
The Kladruber
"The Kladruber horse, with its noble presence and gentle temperament, is a living testament to centuries of careful breeding and tradition, embodying both elegance and strength in every stride."
the kladruber
The Kladruber is renowned for its calm and willing temperament, and distinctive appearance with a high-set neck, an expressive head with an extremely convex Roman nose, which comes from the pedigrees of imported Spanish horses such as the Andalusians and Italian horses, crossed with Danish, Holstein, Irish, and Oldenburg blood, in addition to the heavy Czech breeds.
Kladruber horses were primarily used for ceremonial and high-ranking carriage driving, serving the needs of the Habsburg monarchy which goes back at least to the 14th century. Kladrubers come in two coat colors: black and grey. Historically, black Kladrubers were used in funerary processions, while grey Kladrubers were favored for royal and ceremonial ceremonies.
Kladruber characteristics
The Kladruber horse originates from the Czech Republic, specifically from the town of Kladruby nad Labem, which lies in the western part of the country. The breed has a long history, dating back to the early 16th century.
Their origin
In today’s setting, Kladrubers can be seen performing in equestrian sports such as dressage and driving competitions, tourism or leisure riding, and cultural events, historical reenactments that emphasize the royal heritage. Due to many historical and political factors in Europe, especially in the 20th century, there has been a significant decrease in demand for carriage horses in royal ceremonies, and this has constrained the breed's population growth, which today leaves the Kladrubers an incredibly rare breed, with a population of around 1,200. The breed’s importance is recognized through its inclusion in the UNESCO Czech Heritage Site.
Why had the population declined?
Efforts to prevent the extinction of Kladruber horses are made with a combination of promotion of the breed, educational, and breeding programs. After more than 400 years, the Czech founder of the breed – The Kladruby nad Labem National Stud – still runs a selective breeding program with the help of additional financial support from governmental organizations. Enhancement of the tourism sector can provide additional funding and public engagement, ensuring the breed's historical significance is recognized and celebrated. By integrating these practices, we can help safeguard the future of Kladruber horses, preserving their unique heritage and ensuring they remain an enduring symbol of equine history and culture.
Preserving their legacy
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