For centuries horses and carriages were seen in the streets and on the country roads of Europe. After 1950 they gradually disappeared and nowadays carriages are almost an historical phenomenon. People have lost the feeling of travelling in a slow pace, depending on the condition of an animal.

The value of the European cultural heritage is guarded by many museums in all European countries. Together they show the rich variety of, for example, historical carriages, sleighs, sedan chairs and litters.

The origins of carriages lay in the Middle Ages, when roads were unpaved and muddy, and when wooden carts offered an uncomfortable way of transport. From 1500 on, various types of vehicles were developed, all of them with springs to create some comfort for the passengers. The history of carriage building is described in the chapter History of carriages.

The development of travelling and the need for swiftness and comfort is described in the chapter Travelling.