Horse Pens

The scarcity of horses in some regions, climate, and the tradition of infantry fighting meant many Hellenistic rulers used a limited number of horsemen in their armies. Although the various states undoubtedly organised their forces differently, Greek military manuals point to both heavily armoured and lighter skirmishing cavalry. The 'hippeis' were the high ranking citizens who could afford to buy and keep horses, and they often served as a royal guard. Unlike their foot counterparts they continued to drill and practice in peacetime and took part in major processions and festivals. The cavalry of the Aeotolian League was regarded as the best cavalry of the Hellenistic world, while the Achaean League’s horsemen were thought of as largely ineffectual. Generals would supplement their own cavalry forces with the more experienced and better skilled mercenary riders, along with horsemen from conquered states.