A white Arabian horse from the stud in Kolobrzeg became a gift to Pope Leon XIV. The original gesture of Poles was impressive in the Vatican courtyard – the pope proudly guided the animal before the audience. The symbolism and history of the horse are impressive.
A necessary gift from the Polish stable
Pope Leon XIV recently received an unusual gift from Polish breeder – a 12-year-old, pure-bred Arabian horse named Proton. The animal comes from Michalski Stud in Kołobrzeg-Budzistów. The handover of the gift took place just before the Wednesday general audience in the Vatican, with numerous media and people gathered in the square.
White symbol inscribed in the papal tradition
The white ointment of the horse perfectly corresponds with the papal sutanna, as emphasized by Andrzej Michalski, owner of the stud. The choice was not accidental: Proton captivated the breeder with temperament and tranquility. "When I saw pictures of the Pope in Peru on a horse, I thought that white arab was a worthy gift," Michalski said in a conversation for the media.
Proton joined the Papal stable
The horse went to the papal stable in Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Holy Father under Rome. It is a place where other horses have been present for years, including Andalusian horses. Pope Leon XIV had his equestrian experience gained during his missionary ministry in Peru, where he regularly travelled the villages on horseback.
Why did Poles give the horse to the Pope?
It is worth noting that it is a gesture of not only admiration but also respect. The idea was born as a response to the papal adhortation "Dilex these" ("I Loved You"), in which Leon XIV emphasizes the role of gestures in building bonds and love. Polish breeders chose a horse with a unique line: Proton was born in Janów Podlaski, his father is from the United States, his mother was redeemed from the Duchess of Jordan. Such a story adds extra value to the gift.
List of Trivia: Papal Gifts
- Presents for popes usually go to museums, Vatican collections or stables in residences.
- Pope Leon XIV is the first American Pope, with much equestrian experience from Peru.
- The white Arabian horse symbolizes nobility, purity and a new beginning – important values for Christian tradition.
Who is the Polish breeder?
Andrzej Michalski, owner of the horse riding and hiptherapy centre in Kołobrzeg-Budzistów, has been promoting native horse breeding for years. It is thanks to his fantasy, courage and passion that Polish horses gain recognition even in the Vatican. – The Pope was very pleased, we conducted the horse together – Michalski reported to local media.
Impact of the gift on the image of Poland and the Church
According to experts, such a gesture can strengthen the positive image of Poland abroad – as a country that cares for breeding heritage and promotes Christian values. This is also another example of establishing a relationship between Poland and the Vatican through symbolic gifts.
The most unusual papal gifts of recent years
| Year | A gift for the Pope | Country of origin | Gift Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | White Arabian horse | Poland | Nobility, tradition |
| 2024 | Carpet | Azerbaijan | Craft, Culture |
| 2023 | Vespa scooter | Italy | Mobility, simplicity |
The gift of Poles to Pope Leon XIV is much more than a symbolic gesture. It is an expression of respect, creativity and also a desire to build bonds through exceptional traditions. Thanks to such events, Polish-Vatican relations gain not only a formal dimension, but also a very human and warm one – like friendship between rider and horse, which starts with... the first common walk.
