The Friesian, also known as Frisian, is a horse breed originating in Friesland, Netherlands. Although the breed's form resembles that of a light draft horse, Friesians are far more elegant and agile for their size.
During the Middle Ages, it is believed that the ancestors of Friesian horses were in great demand as war horses throughout continental Europe. Through the Middle Ages their size enabled them to carry a knight in armor. Though the breed nearly became extinct on more than one occasion, the modern day Friesian horse is growing in numbers and popularity, used both in harness and under saddle.
