Famous horses that have made history

Throughout history, there have been several famous horses that have left an indelible mark on the world. These horses have not only been notable for their appearance and abilities, but also for their contributions to historical and cultural events.

Horses are one of the most important animals for humans, they have been around for centuries and their impact on humanity is more than evident. We can see them in novels, historical stories, legends and movies. And of course, many are known by all due to their help in conquering kingdoms and forging empires.

Bucephalus

Bucephalus was the famous horse of Alexander the Great (356-323 BC), one of the most important military leaders and conquerors in ancient history. The story of Bucephalus is legendary and has been passed down through the centuries.

His name means ox-headed, because he had a very broad forehead, a round face and a white star marked his face. Bucephalus became Alexander's battle horse and accompanied him in many of his famous conquests, including the battle of Issos and the conquest of the Persian Empire. The relationship between Alexander and Bucephalus has become a symbol of the deep connection between a rider and his horse in equestrian history.

Incitatus

Incitatus was a horse belonging to the Roman emperor Caligula, who ruled from 37 AD until his assassination in 41 AD. The story of Incitatus is mainly known for the extravagant stories and anecdotes surrounding Caligula and his actions during his reign, some of which are the subject of debate and legend.

Caligula had exceptional affection for Incitatus and treated the horse with luxuries and honors befitting an aristocrat. Incitatus was said to have a marble stable, a necklace of precious stones and even a team of servants at his disposal. This horse, also known as an emperor, earned a place in history as his owner ended up making him a senator.

Babieca

Babieca was the horse of the medieval Spanish hero El Cid Campeador, a warrior and military leader who played a crucial role in the history of medieval Spain during the 11th century. The story of Babieca and El Cid is a very important part of Spanish literature and culture.

According to legends, Babieca was a strong, brave and loyal horse that led the Cid to victory in many battles. Babieca became a symbol of loyalty and bravery in Spanish tradition, and his story has been immortalized in various literary works, plays and films based on the life of El Cid Campeador.

Marengo

Marengo was the famous war horse of Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and emperor who played a significant role in European history during the 19th century. The Marengo horse was named after the Battle of Marengo, a major victory for Napoleon in Italy in 1800.

He owned other horses, but Marengo was always his favorite. Marengo was a gray Arabian horse that accompanied Napoleon on several military campaigns, including the Napoleonic wars in Italy and Egypt.

After Napoleon's fall in 1815, Marengo was captured by the British and taken to England. After his death in 1831, his skeleton was preserved and is currently on display at the National Army Museum in London. Marengo's story continues to be remembered as part of the historical legacy of Napoleon and his time.

Secretariat

Secretariat was one of the most famous and successful racehorses in the history of turf racing. Born in 1970, Secretariat was a Thoroughbred horse that excelled primarily in long distance racing. He is arguably the most famous thoroughbred of all time.

Secretariat won the U.S. Triple Crown in 1973, meaning he won the three most important races in the United States: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

His victory in the Belmont Stakes is especially notable, as it set a record that still stands to this day. Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes by approximately 62 lengths, a victory so dominant that it left spectators and fans stunned. In addition, in an ESPN vote on the 100 greatest American athletes of the 20th century, he was chosen 35th, the first non-human on the list.