France’s beloved gentle giant, the Percheron, has a history as rich and storied as the lands from which it rose to fame.

Named for the old Le Perche region in northwestern France, the Percheron pedigree can be traced back to the Middle Ages when mighty grey destrier war horses carried armored knights into battle. As mounted warfare faded into history, the Percheron found new purpose as a carriage and work horse. For a time, the breed enjoyed global fame as the ideal draft horse, becoming one of the most imported and beloved horses in America.

When looking upon a Percheron, you can’t help but admire its powerful, sculpted body. With its muscular legs, thick neck, and straight-profiled head, the Percheron almost looks as if it is chiseled from marble. And yet the breed is nimble and capable of great endurance, not just strength, thanks to the introduction of Arabians and Warmblood stock into the bloodline. In their native France, only grey and black coats are allowed in the Percheron registry, but in America and on Jorvik, all colors are welcome.

Today Percherons are one of the most versatile draft horses in the world. You’ll find them driving wagons and sleighs, working in forestry, or even competing in show jumping. They are famously agreeable in temperament. The Percheron is especially loved by the Jorvik Rangers, who taught the breed its signature “moose walk” for traversing marshy terrain.

Through centuries of reinvention, one thing has never changed - the Percheron is a stalwart companion who won’t let you down.

Ubicación: Granja de Marley