The Roman Emperor Caligula is notoriously known for his cruelty, excess, and overall bizarre behavior. But amidst the historical oddities, a unique fascination he held was for a horse called Incitatus, which is said to have been his favorite stallion. Dive into the captivating tale of this renowned equine and learn more about its privileged life, pampered by an emperor whose affection knew no bounds.
Which Horse Was The Favourite Stallion Of The Roman Emperor Caligula Table of Contents
The Legend of Incitatus
Incitatus was a thoroughbred racehorse owned by Emperor Caligula, who ruled the Roman Empire from AD 37 to 41. Historical accounts of Caligula describe his extreme affection for this particular horse, and his seemingly odd desire to treat it as a valuable member of his court.
The Name and Its Meaning
The name Incitatus can be translated as "swift," "quick," or "impetuous." It was likely derived from Incitatus' exceptional ability on the racetrack, making it the perfect choice for an emperor obsessed with speed and winning. Caligula was known for his love for horse racing, often placing large bets on the outcome, so a horse named Incitatus would surely have lived up to his expectations.
The Life of Luxury
Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, a Roman historian, described the lavish lifestyle that Caligula provided for Incitatus, including:
- A lavish stable made of marble and ivory
- Elaborate mangers crafted out of expensive wood
- A personal team of attendants and servants
- A custom-made collar made of precious stones and pearls
- A diet consisting of almonds, oats, and gold flakes mixed with the horse's regular feed
Rumored Political Rank
There are several accounts suggesting that Caligula intended to make Incitatus a consul – a high-ranking government official in ancient Rome. However, these claims are debated and not fully substantiated by historical records. This idea might have stemmed from the emperor's eccentricity, or it could have been an attempt to ridicule the Roman senate, implying that his horse was more capable than the esteemed political leaders.
Which Horse Was The Favourite Stallion Of The Roman Emperor Caligula? Example:
Imagine owning a horse and treating it with such luxury and adoration as Caligula did with Incitatus. Your stable would be the envy of all horse owners, and your mount – the talk of the town. Although the times have changed and we no longer share the extreme beliefs of the Roman emperor, it's still essential to provide a loving environment and care for our modern-day equine companions. As responsible horse owners, we should strive to cater to our horses' needs, making sure they have proper nutrition, healthcare, and a comfortable place to live.
As mysterious and controversial as Emperor Caligula's life was, his passion for Incitatus serves as a unique tale of admiration for a horse in ancient history. While not all of us have the means to shower our horses with gold flakes, their well-being and happiness should always be a priority. If you enjoyed learning about Caligula's famous equine companion, be sure to share this fascinating story with your friends and fellow horse lovers. And don't forget to explore more guides and articles on How to Own a Horse, to gain insight and knowledge for every aspect of horse ownership.
