Join our journey…

to preserve the Rhodian Small Horses, the last of their kind. Standing at just 110cm, these unique little horses embody elegance and charm. Visit us, come and see our horses and support our breeding initiative, aimed at increasing their population. Visit our café to relax while witnessing these magnificent little creatures up close. Your contribution, whether through volunteering or donations, can secure the future of the Rhodian Small Horses and celebrate their legacy.

The Rhodian Small Horse – A living symbol of Heritage

All horses we know today, including the small Rhodian horse, belong to the zoological family Equus caballus. Horses first appeared around 54 million years ago. Back then, they were no bigger than a small dog, living in forested areas. Over thousands of years, much has changed. Horses gradually increased in size and left the forests to live on plains and steppes, always adapting to their environment. Through this long journey of evolution, many types of horses emerged — some survived, while others were lost to history.

After the last Ice Age, by the early Holocene, multiple wild horse populations existed, and selective domestication began around 5,500–6,000 years ago. These were domesticated by humans and became the ancestors of all the horse breeds we know today. 

This remarkable breed is a remnant of a once widespread family of horses that inhabited mainland Greece, the islands, the coast of Asia Minor, and extended as far as the Caspian Sea and North Africa. Their wide distribution was due to their good nature, great strength, and minimal nutritional needs. These horses became invaluable companions to the Greeks, assisting in every task — from the humblest labor to prestigious ceremonies, from plowing and transportation to competitions and festivals.

It is significant to note that even the pediments of the Parthenon, which depict the Panathenaic festival, show not large war horses, but small horses much like ours here in Rhodes.

For thousands of years, the horse remained by humanity’s side. However, with the Industrial Revolution, this loyal companion, which had served so faithfully, was gradually set aside. The result was a sharp decline in horse populations. Just 200 years ago, every family on the island of Rhodes had at least one horse. By 1975, only 60 remained on the entire island — and today, in 2025, there are just 13.

What makes the Rhodian horse particularly unique is that it is one of the smallest horse breeds in the world, along with its relative, the Skyrian horse. But what truly sets our horse apart is that its small size is the result of natural selection, not human intervention.

Standing at about 110 cm tall, the Rhodian horse has an elegant, well-proportioned body that mirrors the form of larger horses. Its head is broad with large, intelligent eyes and medium-sized ears. The neck is muscular and the mane dense and rich. The body is harmoniously built, with shoulders at the same level as the croup, and the length of the body slightly exceeding the horse’s height. Its legs are strong and muscular, ending in small, hard hooves, and its thick tail nearly reaches the ground.

This small horse of Rhodes is a living symbol of the island’s natural and cultural heritage. It played a key role in the daily life of the people here for countless generations and has earned its place in history. Now, it deserves a future as brilliant as its past.

Each of us — individually and together — can and should do something to help preserve this noble breed. It has given us so much, and we owe it to them.

The history of the small-sized Rhodian horse stretches far into the past, and with your support, alongside the members and friends of “FAETHON,” we are confident that the future belongs to them.

Who We Are

“FAETHON” is a non-profit association dedicated to preserving the rare and beautiful Rhodian Small Horse breed. Founded in 2001, we began with just eight horses, and through our efforts, we’ve grown to a small herd of 13. With the ongoing support of the community and those who care, we are confident in our mission to safeguard this unique breed. Looking ahead, we have an exciting breeding plan in place, with hopes of welcoming several foals by the summer of 2026.

Located in Archangelos, the heart of the Rhodian Small Horse’s native region, we invite you to visit us and experience the charm of these wonderful horses. Learn more about their history and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. While here, relax with a refreshing drink or snack at our café, or take home a special local product or souvenir as a reminder of your visit.

Our Horses and their near future

As of 2025, we have a small herd of 13 Rhodian Small Horses, ranging in age from 2 to 21 years old, consisting of six females and seven males. An immediate breeding plan is currently underway, and we are also developing a long-term strategy with the support of the organization Amalthia — the Network for the Protection of Greek Indigenous Farm Animals.

To learn more about our breeding program, you can download our presentation using the link below. Every bit of support makes a difference — and we truly welcome your help!

Learn more about our breeding program by downloading the Faethon Presentation PDF.

Become a Volunteer

Do you have experience working with horses and a passion for animal care? Would you like to spend a summer season on the beautiful island of Rhodes? We’d love to hear from you — get in touch with us!

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