Horses of the Avelignese breed, typical of the far north of Italy, will be candidates for Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
The request is supported by the provincial council of Bolzano, in Trentino-Alto Adige, based on a proposal from the local breeders' federation.
The Haflinger, an alternative name for the breed, “is an essential part of our cultural identity and our history,” said the province’s environment secretary, Peter Brunner.
These horses, developed between Austria and the far north of Italy since the 19th century, have become part of the Trentino landscape, being “recognized throughout the world” as part of the local culture.
“We deserve recognition from UNESCO for all the work that several generations have done to preserve the breed,” explained Brunner.
The Avelignesi are small, caramel-colored horses with an energetic but elegant trot. (HANDLE)
