Akhaltekins

For the Turkmen people, horses have always held a revered place. It’s almost inconceivable to envision a Turkmen without a horse. The saying, “The horse is a true member of a Turkmen family,” reflects their deep-seated respect for these magnificent animals. For thousands of years, the Turkmen have maintained a meticulous and devoted approach to horse care. As early as the 5th century BC, the renowned historian Herodotus noted that the ancestors of the Turkmen had chosen the horse as a symbol of the sun, believing that the fastest celestial body should correspond to the swiftest terrestrial creature.

The image of the “winged horse” frequently appears in Turkmen epic poetry, known as «destans,» highlighting the cultural significance of horses in Turkmen lore.

Among Turkmenistan’s most cherished treasures are the Akhal-Teke horses, considered among the finest in the world. Turkmen legend holds that these horses are descended from celestial steeds. Many tales describe Akhal-Tekes as being the offspring of a mythical «sea» horse. One such legend recounts a spring in the Turkmen mountains that would produce an extraordinary horse whenever a herd came to drink. As the story goes, the mares of this herd gave birth to colts of remarkable size and beauty. When one of these colts was finally saddled and trained, it was discovered that it could seemingly fly between heaven and earth, perfectly obedient to the bridle and exceptionally swift.

These legends of «heavenly» and «sea» horses are a testament to the rich mythology of the Turkmen, who are believed to be among the earliest horse breeders.

The Akhal-Teke, famous for its swiftness and grace, has brought international acclaim to Turkmenistan. The national emblem even features an Akhal-Teke racer, underscoring the breed’s significance. Akhal-Tekes are distinguished by their sleek, elegant necks and slender legs, combined with surprising strength. To celebrate this remarkable breed, Turkmenistan holds the «Festival of Turkmen Racer» on the last Sunday of April each year. This event offers a chance to meet these exceptional horses and witness various equestrian competitions, including both classical and traditional sports.

The Akhal-Teke’s loyalty is the subject of numerous legends. For the Turkmen, horses have always represented spiritual value and are seen as symbols of well-being and prosperity, rather than mere material possessions. The Akhal-Teke embodies these qualities of nobility, loyalty, and friendship. Celebrated in songs, legends, and even monuments, these horses have been a priceless gift from the Turkmen people. By nurturing and training these extraordinary animals, the Turkmen have transformed them into dependable companions and loyal friends, who «catch the wind in the steppe and neither betray nor deceive.»