Horses are an integral part of the Turkish nation’s history and culture. In Turkish history, horses were the most important source of strength in their steppe life. They were considered to be companions and spiritual beings.
The horse is an important image in both modern and classic Turkish literature. One of the most important poets of the 17th century, Nef’i depicted the noble horses under the Ottoman Sultan’s patronage by identifying them as mythological beings similar to dragons and phoenixes.
Yahya Kemal Beyatlı and Faruk Nafiz Çamlıbel, who are known Turkish poets, associated horses with thunder, the rhythm of life and independence.
Turkic epics often feature heroes and their horses. The horse often represents loyalty, bravery and spiritual protection. Especially in the Tales of Dede Korkut, horses are far more than a means of transportation in Central Asia. They represent companionship and heroism.
Today, you can visit Türkiye to see wild and free Yılkı horses in their natural environment in Cappadocia, also known as “the Land of Beautiful Horses” because of its ancient name. Although the region is associated with hot air balloon rides and iconic fairy chimneys, horse riding also offers a unique perspective of Cappadocia. Horses in Cappadocia represent one of the strongest features between Anatolia’s ancient past and the broader traditions of Turkic culture.
This year, between February 14-20, the municipality of Cappadocia will be organizing special events on the occasion of the 2026 Chinese Horse Year.
The “Year of the Horse” also coincides with the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and China. I hope that this year will bring dynamism to the Turkish and Chinese relations.
Source: Global Times
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