There cannot be many countries that revere a breed of horse like the Turkmen. The image of the Akhal-Teke is the national emblem and features on the likes of postage stamps & banknotes, whilst many cities have a statue of the breed in prominent positions in their centres.
The beautiful thoroughbred horse can be several different colours, but the common factor is that they all have a metallic sheen, most notably gold.
They are thought to be one of the oldest horse breeds and have been the companions of the nomadic Seljuk Turks & Turkmen for many centuries.
Today the horses are mainly used for recreational purposes, whilst horse-racing is incredibly popular in the big cities with regular race meetings.
Whilst staying in Ashgabat we traveled out to the Akhal region to a breeding stables and whilst we sipped black tea, several of the fine beasts were brought out to see us. For a short video click HORSE.
The Akhal-Teke Horses of Turkmenistan
The Akhal-Teke Horses of Turkmenistan
Coming next – the Gate to Hell
