Ahal-Teke horse breeding art and traditions of horse decoration were included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO said in a press release.
The final decision was unanimously made during the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO in Kasane, Botswana.
The nomination dossier prepared by the Secretariat of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO included extensive participation of academic researchers, horse breeders, equestrian jewelry makers, as well as famous experts and connoisseurs of equestrian art.
Ahal-Teke horses have long been famous for their outstanding qualities. A whole layer of traditions has developed around them - from naming rituals to equestrian competitions and wedding ceremonies. Knowledge and skills of horse breeding are passed on from generation to generation in Turkmenistan and are part of the historical and cultural heritage of the country.
The work of the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO will continue until December 9. A total of 55 nominations will be considered.