Sacred Animals of Ancient Egypt Gallery

Painting of a horse

The horse, along with the chariot, was introduced into Egypt relatively late in its history, around 1500 BC. Chariots were pulled by two horses, and were used not only in battle, but also for ceremonial occasions and for hunting.

Horses were bred in Egypt, and initially their rarity and novelty meant that they were a status symbol, owned only by wealthy and influential people. They were well looked after, and were given individual names, splendid stables and the best fodder.