Norausturland *** Local Caption *** I.R 01 tbl 2009

HOW MANY HORSES ARE THERE IN ICELAND?

According to figures from Statistics Iceland, there are 51,865 horses in the country. Most in the South. Settlers brought livestock with them from Europe, including a selection of horses. The horses they brought were of various origins, though mostly Germanic. Although the Icelandic horse was a mixed breed in the beginning, it is most closely related to the Norwegian Lyngen horse, which is native to the east of Mongolia. The breed has developed since the 11th century without mixing with other horse breeds, and has retained characteristics that have been lost in other horse breeds. The Icelandic horse has over 40 colours. During these thousand years, it has adapted well to nature and the Icelandic climate. When driving around the country, especially in winter, they are often the only animals you see. Beautiful and part of the country and landscape all year round. Icelandic Times / Land & Saga has gathered several photos that show these beautiful animals in harmony with the country, weather and people.
Horses in Biskupstungur, Árnessýsla
Winter in Landeyjar, Rangárvallasýsla
Hestar í Hvalfirði
Fall in Víðidalur, Vestur-Húnavatnssýsla
Sprints at the National Equestrian Championships, Vindheimamelir, Skagafjörður
Horseback riding in Dómadalur, Rangárvallasýsla
Bakkafjörður, Norður-Múlasýsla
Riding in Öxarfjörður, Norður- Þingeyjarsýsla
Winter in Fljót, Skagafirði

Iceland 18/02/2024
Photographs & text: Páll Stefánsson