Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Destrier?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

In the Middle Ages, a destrier was a superior war horse, selected for strength and a calm nature to be trained for the battlefield. Along with rounceys and coursers, two other types of medieval battlefield horses, it was classified as a charger. However, the destrier was considered to be the highest quality of battle horse, fetching a high price and being ridden by upper ranking knights only. Many of the horses depicted in medieval artwork are destriers.

The name derives from the Latin dexter, meaning right side or right handed. This is because the horses were only ridden in battle; while traveling, a destrier would have been led at the knight's right side until it was needed. The name is also descriptive of a type of horse, rather than a specific breed, and study of art and writing from the period in which destriers were used suggests that they were of an average height and extremely muscular build. It is likely that Iberian horses such as the Andalusian were used to breed destriers, as they have a reputation for immense physical strength, agility, and a calm nature, which is vital in a chaotic battlefield.

Upper ranking knights rode destriers.
Upper ranking knights rode destriers.

This is all in opposition to beliefs held by researchers over much of the twentieth century, which had held that the destrier was an immense horse similar in build to the modern draft horse. While draft horses were probably cross bred with other horses for use as destriers, they did not have the maneuverability of lighter horse breeds which would have been vitally necessary on the battlefield. Above all, a destrier had to be loyal and brave, and these traits were sought out in young horses being considered for training.

The destrier was selected for brute strength, but not endurance. In addition to carrying an armored knight, the horse was also armored, meaning that it had a great deal of weight to carry. In a short encounter such as a clash on the battlefield, the destrier's strength could carry the weight, but it was not capable of maintaining a high level of physical work. Some destriers were also trained to fight alongside their riders, mainly by rearing and attacking fighters on foot.

Knights who were able to afford a destrier typically kept several coursers as well. Coursers closely resemble the modern hunter, and were used for speed and agility. They also had more stamina than destriers, and were a good deal less costly. An ordinary horse, known as a rouncey, would be used by squires and low ranking knights. For pleasure riding, knights would typically use a palfrey, or riding horse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly was a destrier?

A destrier was a type of warhorse used in medieval Europe, renowned for its strength, size, and courage. These horses were the mounts of knights and were highly valued for their ability to carry heavily armored warriors into battle. Destriers were trained for combat, making them an integral part of medieval warfare.

How did destriers differ from other medieval horses?

Destriers were larger and stronger than other medieval horses like coursers and rounceys. They were bred for power and stamina to carry a knight in full armor. Their training was also more rigorous, focusing on the demands of battle, including charging and withstanding the noise and chaos of combat.

What was the typical size of a destrier?

Contrary to popular belief, destriers were not giant breeds by modern standards. They typically stood between 14.2 and 15 hands (about 58 to 60 inches at the shoulder). Their robust build gave them the appearance of being larger and allowed them to carry the weight of an armored knight effectively.

Were destriers used for anything besides war?

While destriers were primarily bred for war, their status and value often saw them used in ceremonies and tournaments, such as jousting. Their impressive presence made them symbols of chivalry and nobility, and they were sometimes given as prestigious gifts among royalty and high-ranking nobles.

How were destriers trained for battle?

Destriers underwent specialized training to prepare them for the rigors of combat. This included desensitization to loud noises and sudden movements, learning to tolerate the weight of armor, and responding to the knight's commands even in the chaos of battle. They were also trained to bite, kick, and strike at opponents.

Are there any modern descendants of the destrier?

While no direct lineage can be confirmed due to the passage of time and changes in breeding practices, some modern draft breeds like the Percheron and Friesian may carry the genetic legacy of the medieval destrier. These breeds share the strength and stature that would have been prized in a destrier.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon130967

Are destriers used today? How?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Upper ranking knights rode destriers.
      By: Nejron Photo
      Upper ranking knights rode destriers.