In the 19th century, breeding stallions from abroad were brought to Russia’s Vladimir Governorate to breed with the best, largest, and strongest local mares. By the mid-1930s, breeders had managed to create an almost ideal horse. The new Vladimir breed was registered in 1946. This horse is known for its power, hardiness, and friendly nature, and these gentle giants are said to have a particularly Russian character. Its ancestors carried knights and heavy cannons, but the new breed was originally intended to be used for agricultural tasks. And today? What has become of them? Learn about the Vladimir Heavy Draft and its history, on Russian Travel Guide.