The Karabakh horse, a rare and culturally significant breed from the Caucasus region, is gaining renewed attention in Europe, particularly in Germany, where trainers and conservationists collaborate with Azerbaijan to preserve its lineage. Known for its endurance, intelligence, and distinctive golden sheen, the breed evolved to navigate the rugged Caucasus mountains. However, its population sharply declined in the 20th century due to war, economic turmoil, and crossbreeding, with the Nagorno-Karabakh War causing significant loss of bloodlines and breeding infrastructure.

Efforts to conserve the Karabakh horse include Germany’s IG Karabakh and Eurasian Horse Breeds association, founded by Verena Scholian, which focuses on documentation, controlled breeding, and genetic monitoring. Azerbaijan has also implemented a recovery program involving pedigree recording and selective breeding, centered at the Aghdam Horse Breeding Complex. Beyond breeding, the Karabakh horse symbolizes Azerbaijan’s cultural identity and Caucasian equestrian heritage, making its preservation a priority to prevent the loss of this unique and historic breed.