The photo essay is about the animal, but also about its breeding, training and the art of dressage. The Menorquín is a breed of horse indigenous to the island and is closely associated with the doma menorquina style of riding. The most valued quality of Menorquín horse is its suitability for the traditional festivals of Menorca. Horses and riders are at the centre of local fiesta celebrations, in a tradition that may go back to the 14th century and incorporate elements of...
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The photo essay is about the animal, but also about its breeding, training and the art of dressage. The Menorquín is a breed of horse indigenous to the island and is closely associated with the doma menorquina style of riding. The most valued quality of Menorquín horse is its suitability for the traditional festivals of Menorca. Horses and riders are at the centre of local fiesta celebrations, in a tradition that may go back to the 14th century and incorporate elements of Christian, pagan and Moorish ritual. Riders pass through the crowds, executing caracoles and repeatedly performing the bot. The aim of the ‘bot’ is for the horse to stand on its hind legs while keeping its head and shoulders relaxed and without tension; the more often it is performed and the greater the distance travelled, the greater the applause of the crowd. The elevade, in which the horse beats the air with the front hooves, is also a part of the ritual of the fiesta.
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