Shagya Arab mares and foals living loose in open barn, at the B‡bolna, Hungary

The Shagya Arab was developed in the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the 19th century at the B‡bolna, Mezohegyes, Radautz, Piber, and Topolcianky studs. One of the major founding sires was Shagya, a grey Arab stallion. Shagyas tend to be taller, less refined, and bigger-boned than purebred Arab horses. The modern Shagya is usually at least 15 hh and often 16 hh