Chovgan — Azerbaijan's UNESCO-Listed Horseback Game

Horse breeding is one of Azerbaijan's oldest traditions, so it's no surprise the country has its own horseback team game — chovgan. The name comes from a Turkic word meaning "to strike while swinging a stick".

History

Archaeologists at Orangala (ancient Beylagan) found a vessel depicting the game, showing it was played by the 11th century. Nizami Ganjavi mentions it in "Khosrow and Shirin", as does the epic "Book of Dede Korkut".

Rules

Two teams of riders use wooden sticks to drive a ball into the opponent's goal. The zurna and naghara play throughout, keeping players and spectators fired up. Traditionally the game is played on Karabakh horses, known for speed and stamina.

UNESCO heritage

In 2013 chovgan on Karabakh horses was inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible heritage in need of urgent safeguarding. Tournaments and festivals with exhibition games are held across the country.

Love horses? Read about horse riding near Baku.