The research, led by the University of Exeter and funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, analyzed a near-unique animal cemetery discovered in London nearly 30 years ago. Utilizing advanced archaeological science techniques, such as studying the chemical composition of the horse remains, researchers identified the likely origins of several physically elite horses and the routes they took to reach England.
The findings indicate that these animals, likened to modern supercars, were sourced from various locations across Europe due to their exceptional qualities. Among the horses studied, three stood out as being among the tallest animals known from late medieval England, reaching heights of up to 1.6 meters or 15.3 hands high.
Physical analysis of the teeth revealed signs of heavy use of a curb bit, often employed with elite animals, particularly those groomed for war and tournaments following the 14th century. Additionally, bit wear on some of the mares indicated that they were used under saddle or in harness and for breeding purposes.
The skeletons of the horses were recovered from a site under the modern-day Elverton Street in the City of Westminster, which was excavated in advance of building works in the 1990s. During the medieval period, this location lay just outside the walled City of London but was situated near the royal palace complex at Westminster, suggesting a connection between the elite class and the acquisition of these prized horses.