Destrier
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The destrier is the best-known war horse of the Middle Ages. It carried knights in battles, tournaments, and jousts. It was described by contemporary sources as the Great Horse, due to its significanc
Mounted on a destrier, Richard Marshal unseats an opponent during a skirmish.
Caparisoned horses competing in a joust from the Codex Manesse
Palfrey
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A palfrey is a type of horse that was highly valued as a riding horse in the Middle Ages. It was a lighter-weight horse, usually a smooth gaited one that could amble, suitable for riding over long dis
Destrier
…specifically for the needs of war. The destrier was specifically raised for use in battle or tournament. For everyday riding, a knight would use a palfrey, and his baggage would be carried on a sumpter horse (or packhorse), or possibly in wagons. They had powerful hindquarters, able to easily coil and…
A medieval painting of a palfrey
The palfrey was considered an appropriate mount for women
Image of a palfrey in ambling gait