Nalbantlık

Nalbantlık is the craft of fitting horseshoes to the feet of animals such as horses, donkeys, and mules. What is a horseshoe? A horseshoe is a metal shoe used to protect the feet of animals. This profession began long ago, in times when animals were of great importance.

Nalbantlık (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)

Why Is Nalbantlık Important?

In the past, there were no cars, trucks, or tractors. People relied on horses, donkeys, or oxen for transportation. These animals carried loads and transported people from one place to another. However, long distances or rough terrain could injure the animals’ hooves. This is where nalbants came into action! By fitting horseshoes to the animals’ feet, they protected the hooves and enabled the animals to walk more comfortably.

Horseshoe (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)

How Does a Nalbant Make a Horseshoe?

Nalbantlık is not an easy job, children! A nalbant first heats the iron in a special forge. Then, using a hammer, anvil, and other tools, he shapes the metal. The horseshoe must fit the animal’s foot perfectly so that it is comfortable. There are two types of horseshoes:

Alaturka horseshoe: This is a simple, flat horseshoe. It is rounded for the front hooves and slightly pointed for the hind hooves.

Alafranga horseshoe: Ideal for animals used in cities. Some even have rubber soles, just like our shoes!

When fitting a horseshoe, the nalbant cleans the animal’s foot, removes the old horseshoe, and nails on the new one using special nails (tacks). Great care is taken so that the animal does not suffer any pain.

Nalbantlık and Our Culture

In Turkish culture, horses hold great significance. Horses are not only used for transportation but also appear in stories, legends, and proverbs. For this reason, nalbantlık has always been a valued profession. In the past, nalbants worked alongside blacksmiths and saraçs (makers of horse harnesses), creating orderly workshops in marketplaces.

Horse (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)

Where Is Nalbantlık Today?

Today, cars and motor vehicles are everywhere, so there is little demand for nalbantlık. Most nalbant shops have closed, and young people no longer wish to learn this trade. However, in some places, especially in villages, nalbants still shoe horses and donkeys. This profession is a part of our history and an art that must not be forgotten!