A small animal of ancient origin
On Skyros you will encounter one of the rarest animals in Greece: the Skyrian horse. This small indigenous breed has a history that dates back to antiquity. It is believed to be a descendant of the famous ancient Thessalian horse, while it is related to the miniature horses depicted in the reliefs of the Parthenon and vases from the classical period.
No taller than 1.10m, with a slender body and a shiny coat, the Skyrian horse stands out for its nobleness and strength. Despite its small size, it is resilient, clever, and social. For Skyriots, it is a symbol of the island, and living proof of the bond between humans and nature.
Skyrian horses live free on the slopes of Mount Kochilas in southern Skyros, in a protected area that is part of the NATURA 2000 network. There they travel in small herds, galloping among thyme shrubs and pine trees, offering an enchanting spectacle.
Skyros is the only island in Greece where they continue to live in a semi-wild state, in nature and under the protection of local authorities. Thanks to the efforts of the Skyros Island Horse Trust and the Association for the Protection of the Skyrian Horse, the population is stabilising. It is estimated that there are less than 300 Skyrian horses in the world, most of which live on the island.
To see them in their natural environment, you can hike along one of the trails of Kochilas. It is important to observe all safety measures and, where necessary, be accompanied by an experienced, certified guide
If you want more direct contact, you can get to know the Skyrian horses on farms and in places that rescue them and ensure their survival. They offer lived experiences, where you can come into contact with the animals, learn about their particular way of life, and understand why it is so important to protect them.
No taller than 1.10m, with a slender body and a shiny coat, the Skyrian horse stands out for its nobleness and strength. Despite its small size, it is resilient, clever, and social. For Skyriots, it is a symbol of the island, and living proof of the bond between humans and nature.
Skyrian horses live free on the slopes of Mount Kochilas in southern Skyros, in a protected area that is part of the NATURA 2000 network. There they travel in small herds, galloping among thyme shrubs and pine trees, offering an enchanting spectacle.
Skyros is the only island in Greece where they continue to live in a semi-wild state, in nature and under the protection of local authorities. Thanks to the efforts of the Skyros Island Horse Trust and the Association for the Protection of the Skyrian Horse, the population is stabilising. It is estimated that there are less than 300 Skyrian horses in the world, most of which live on the island.
To see them in their natural environment, you can hike along one of the trails of Kochilas. It is important to observe all safety measures and, where necessary, be accompanied by an experienced, certified guide
If you want more direct contact, you can get to know the Skyrian horses on farms and in places that rescue them and ensure their survival. They offer lived experiences, where you can come into contact with the animals, learn about their particular way of life, and understand why it is so important to protect them.
