Europe shows growing interest in Azerbaijan’s Karabakh horse breed

Romanian television channel Antena 3 has highlighted growing European interest in the Karabakh horse, one of the oldest horse breeds native to the Caucasus region.

The rare breed is known for its elegant physique, distinctive golden coat, endurance, and calm temperament. Experts from Azerbaijan and Germany are currently cooperating on preservation and development efforts, including specialised breeding and monitoring programmes aimed at protecting the breed’s genetic characteristics, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

The report noted that Karabakh horses developed over centuries in the mountainous regions of the Caucasus, where they adapted to difficult terrain and became known for their agility and resilience. Historical records indicate the horses were highly valued in ancient times and gained broader recognition across Eurasia in the 19th century through international exhibitions.

Antena 3 also highlighted the sharp decline in the Karabakh horse population during the 20th century due to wars, economic difficulties, and uncontrolled crossbreeding. During the First Karabakh War, valuable breeding lines were lost following the destruction of horse-breeding infrastructure in the city of Aghdam.

The report particularly emphasised the contribution of Verena Scholian to the preservation of Karabakh horses in Europe, describing the breed as a “true treasure” whose protection remains of major importance.

By Sabina Mammadli