Akhal-Teke horses, the pride of Turkmenistan

Akhal-Tekes are considered the most famous and ancient stallion breed. Experts say the first Akhal-Teke horses appeared over 3,000 years ago. Turkmen horse breeders continue the ancient Akhal-Teke breeding traditions.

The whole nation celebrates Turkmen Stallion Day on the last Sunday of every April. The main festivities are held at a racecourse in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.

The equestrian festival is preceded by folk music and dance performances.

Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov opening the Turkmen Stallion Day.

The magnificent stallions were displayed one by one in front of spectators and the festival’s jury.

The Turkmen know a lot about horses, meaning that numerous horse experts were gathered at the racecourse.

Black, bay and other Akhal-Teke stallions were on show.

The festival culminated in a horse race.

РThe Turkmen are convinced that many famous ancient horses, including Alexander the Great’s steed, the legendary Bucephalus, were Akhal-Teke stallions./p>

Akhal-Tekes are one of the main state symbols of independent Turkmenistan whose state emblem features an Akhal-Teke stallion.

A monument to Akhal-Teke stallions, first bred in ancient Bactria and Parthia and whose breeding secrets Turkmen pass on from generation to generation, has been unveiled in Ashgabat.