Why People Are Calling This Animal ‘The Most Beautiful Horse In The World’

Pascal Mouawad/Facebook

Horses are generally considered to be among the most beautiful and majestic animals. Graceful and regal, with long flowing manes and delicate trots, many horses are admired for their beauty.

But there is one type of horse, in particular, that is so stunning that it stands out from the rest.

Meet The Akhal-Teke

Akhal-Teke horses have been called the most beautiful horses in the world, and although they may sound like they come from a mythical storybook, they are indeed real.

This breed of horses is native to Turkmenistan, where they are a national emblem.

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Akhal-Teke horses are often referred to as “golden horses” or “horses from heaven,” and it’s not hard to see why.

With their golden metallic color and dainty bone structure, they really are awe-inspiring creatures.

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Atrur Baboev, Wikimedia

But it’s their shiny hair that makes them the most striking, as their coats reflect the light, creating a shiny, magical gleam. While the golden-colored Akhal Tekes are most striking, the breed comes in a variety of colors, from black to bay (brown coat with black legs) to chestnut (a coppery, reddish color), according to the Akhal Teke Association of America.

How They Get Their Golden Coats

The unique cream-colored Akhal-Tekes are the result of what’s called the “cream gene” in horses, which leads to palomino, buckskin or perlino coats, like the horse below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm1NLVzAcTC/?taken-by=akhaltekesale

Akhal Tekes, particularly those that are light colored, also commonly have almond-shaped blue eyes, which can create a striking contrast against their coat.

A Rare Breed

If you’re wondering why you haven’t crossed paths with one of these horses yet, it’s because there aren’t many of them out there. Akhal-Teke horses are rare/ There are only about 6,600 of them in the world. They are mostly found in Turkmenistan and Russia, but there are some in Europe and North America as well.

With their reputation for speed, endurance and intelligence, they are often used for sporting, racing and other competitive events. Since these special creatures are so prized, the government of Turkmenistan also sometimes gives these animals to other countries as diplomatic gifts.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRrF7DFjU5-/?taken-by=akhaltekesale

We think they’re definitely worthy of their “most beautiful” title.

[h/t: Shareably]

Animals, Wild Animals
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About the Author
Carina Wolff
Carina is a health and wellness journalist based in Los Angeles. When she’s not writing, doing yoga, or exploring mountains and beaches, she spends her time cooking and creating recipes for her healthy food blog, Kale Me Maybe. Carina is also an ongoing writer for Bustle, Reader's Digest, FabFitFun, and more.

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