In ancient Greece, the Thessalian horse was perhaps the most renowned breed. Thessaly, a region in central Greece, was known for its fertile plains and its tradition of horse breeding. These horses were highly prized for their stamina and strength, making them ideal for both military and chariot racing. The Thessalian horses were often large, robust, and capable of withstanding the physical demands of battle, as well as being fast enough to excel in the athletic competitions held during events like the Olympic Games. These horses were often used in horse-racing, an important aspect of Greek culture, and were seen as a symbol of nobility and prestige.

In addition to the Thessalian horses, Arabian horses were highly prized in both Greece and Rome. The Arabian breed is one of the oldest and most influential horse breeds in history, known for its endurance, intelligence, and graceful build. Although Arabian horses were originally from the Arabian Peninsula, they were highly sought after by the Greeks and Romans for their superior speed and agility. The Romans especially valued these horses for their use in cavalry units. The Arabian horse’s sleek appearance and ability to endure long marches and rough terrains made it highly suitable for warfare and long-distance travel.

In ancient Rome, the Numidian horse, native to North Africa, was also highly valued, particularly for its role in cavalry units. Known for being smaller than other breeds, the Numidian horses were extremely fast and agile, which made them ideal for the light cavalry used by the Romans in battle. These horses were often used by the Roman legions in skirmishes and hit-and-run tactics, where speed and maneuverability were key. The Numidians were often depicted as warhorses in Roman art, and their skill in battle was legendary.