This wild horse, whose photo I took in Cappadocia, Turkey, caught my eye not just because of its beauty, but because of the sense of freedom it conveyed as it galloped among the surreal fairy chimneys of Goreme.
The weather was perfect that day–and I felt happy to be traveling solo–and so, when I saw the horse, it was a nice reminder of my own freedom to travel and explore.
Wild Horse, Cappadocia
‘Land of Beautiful Wild Horses’
If you visit this part of Turkey (and I recommend that you do because it’s simply wonderful), you’ll most likely see these horses. The word Cappadocia, by the way, comes from the Hittite name Katpatuka , which means “land of beautiful wild horses.”
Fairy Chimneys
The fairy chimneys, by the way, are surreal rock formations were originally volcanic “tuff” that had been sculpted by water and erosion, leaving behind oblong mushroom shapes with soft ridges and deep valleys.
History of the Region
This region of Turkey had once been a Roman and Byzantine province and the heart of the ancient Hittite Empire. It had been used by the ancients for homes, chapels and tombs; there were even some underground cities in the area.
Photographic Details
Camera: FujiFilm FinePix E900
ISO: 400
F stop: 8
Shutter: 1/800 second
Focal length: 28 mm
Your Thoughts?
Have you been to Cappadocia? Did you see any wild horses while there or did you take a tour on horseback?
If you’ve never been to this area, would you like to go? Would you rather walk or hike among the fairy chimneys? Or go on horseback?
Are there certain animals you connect with more than others?
What a great photo! Two notes on this 1) The geology has some similarities to formations in New Mexico. At the foot of the Jemez Mtns (a volcanic formation) is an area called Tent Rocks – tuff that has eroded by wind and water to form tentlike rock formations, and 2)I believe that Celts or proto-celts were in Anatolia during early parts of their development and movement. I believe they were among those who, early-on domesticated the horse. A lot is conjecture based on wishful thinking by those jingoists and sabre-rattlers would have us believe that we have become civilized by our skill at warfare (but that’s a story for another soapbox). Nonetheless, it’s interesting that your picture is of a horse in one of the early places they were domesticated…
Thanks for sharing!
Steve Collins recently posted..Photo of the week: gate at Estrella del Norte Vinyard and wine tasting room
Thanks, Steve. Glad you like it! Fascinating info re: the Jemez Mts and the similarities as far as the “tuff.” I think I visited them when I was there in NM. And same for the historical side of things in Anatolia–equally as interesting.
PS: Whenever you share a tidbit re: NM, I feel like I want to return. It is, by far, one of my favorite states!
I would love to visit Anatolia sometime when things are more peaceful than now. I salute you for the courage to plan and live your adventures.
Steve Collins recently posted..Photo of the week: gate at Estrella del Norte Vinyard and wine tasting room
Hi, Steve. Thanks so much for saying that…appreciate it! Hope you do visit that region of Turkey. I’m sure you’ll love it.
cool post! Keep up the excellent work!
Love the photo. The horse is a wanderer like you. When I was a child being driven to the Jersey shore each summer (often car sick), I would imagine a horse running next to the car, free, mane flying, gracefully avoiding the obstacles on the Jersey Turnpike. So…I love seeing horses run free. I began riding horses as a very mature adult and really enjoy watching them move, riderless and free.
Hi, Andrea. I like that–we’re both wanderers! PS: I’m a Sagittarius!
You’re from NJ? Me, too. Small world! Cool that you’re into horseback riding. I’ve only done it several times and with the exception of once, in Egypt (when a horse tried to throw me), I liked it. Still nice to see them running freely…
Awesome! We’ll be in Capaddocia in October. Wonder if there’d be some horseback riding out there to do! Great shot!
Caro from Passport and a Toothbrush recently posted..RTW trip countdown : 4 months till departure!
Hi, Caro and thanks! So cool that you’ll be heading to Cappadocia–wonderful! I think they do have some tours of the area on horseback. Could be the perfect way to do it…
You took a perfect photo here. Thanks for sharing it with us.
What a great picture Lisa. I loved the horses of Cappadocia. They are magnificent.
Natalie recently posted..My Istanbul Pictures in Black and White
Thanks, Natalie! Aren’t they lovely? When I look through my photos of Turkey, it always puts a smile on my face. It is, by far, one of my favorite countries ever. Must get back there sometime!
Beautiful! I have such a soft spot for wild horses. They are such graceful and wonderful creatures. I haven’t really considered ever going to Turkey but maybe I’ll end up there one day!
Sky recently posted..The Spanish Challenge
Hi, Sky. Thank you! I recommend Turkey to everyone. There’s something truly amazing there–in the West and the East. Cappadocia is a popular place to visit that’s in the center of the country. Was one of my favorite places there!
OH MY GOD !! The horse looks so amazing man !! Thanks for sharing 😀 Cheers
Stunning horse photos! Love all of your captures. Thanks for the share!