A beauty pageant for the magnificent Akhal-Teke Heavenly horses.
This remarkable scene, taking place on April 27, marks an important celebration of the National Day of the Turkmen Horse, a cherished tradition in the heart of Central Asia.
Last year, the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity welcomed the art of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and the rich traditions of horse decoration into its prestigious ranks, underscoring the profound cultural significance of these majestic creatures.
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Turkmenistan, where endless steppe meets rugged mountain ranges and vast deserts, the Akhal-Teke horse has long been revered as a symbol of resilience and beauty. Today’s beauty pageant, held in the newly built city of Arkadag near the Iranian border, is a testament to the enduring legacy of these “paradise horses.”
The Russian Empire invaded what is today’s Turkmenistan in the late 1800s. The Turkmen fought a losing battle mounted on the Akhal-Teke, against the armies of the Tsar.
Akhal-Teke light horse with blue eyes on the black background. Photo: iStock
The order of President Serdar Berdimuhamedo announced the beginning of this historic event, which brought together enthusiasts, breeders and artisans from all over the world to celebrate the glory of the Akhal-Teke breed. The festival goes beyond mere aesthetics, encompassing a diverse range of artistic competitions including painting, sculpture, photography and design, all focused on capturing the essence of the Akhal-Teke aesthetic.
Before the beauty pageant, the XIV meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association and an international scientific conference titled “Turkmen Horse and World Art of Horse Breeding” set the stage for an in-depth exploration of the history and significance of the breed.
Akhal-Teke’s charm lies not only in its physical grandeur but also in its historical past. Dating back over three thousand years, these horses trace their lineage back to ancient civilizations, earning praise from luminaries such as Herodotus, who considered them one of the finest horses in the world. From the Massagetae to the Alans, Akhal-Teke’s lineage is steeped in legends, embodying the spirit of a bygone era.
As Turkmenistan pays tribute to its cherished equine heritage, the beauty pageant serves as a living tapestry, weaving together history, culture and the timeless allure of the Akhal-Teke horse. In the heart of Central Asia, where tradition meets modernity, these “heavenly horses” captivate the imagination and inspire awe with their unmatched beauty and grace.