Csikòs

Before cowboys roamed the American West, Hungary’s Csikós were riding horseback across the Puszta.

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“Csikós” are traditional horsemen of the Puszta, Hungary's Great Plain, known for their exceptional riding skills and deep-rooted
cultural heritage. These horsemen have been an integral part of Hungarian culture for centuries, with their lifestyle and practices
reflecting the historical significance of horses in Hungarian society.

The Csikós are often compared to American cowboys, not only because of their similar roles as herdsmen but also due to the
romanticized image of them as rugged, skilled horsemen.

Traditionally, Csikós perform tasks that go beyond herding horses. They are responsible for the health and well-being of the horses, including feeding, grooming, and providing healthcare. Their training starts at a young age, focusing on taming and training horses and mastering riding techniques. One of their most impressive skills is the ability to ride two horses simultaneously while guiding three others in front, a technique known as the "Puszta Five" .
During World War I, their skills were used to train horses for combat: Csikós would stand on horseback to gain a better vantage
point for spotting potential threats to their herds. They trained their horses to lie down on command, making them less visible from a distance. While the horse lay on its side, the Csikós would stand on its belly and crack a whip, mimicking the sound of gunfire to desensitize the horses to loud noises and make them more resilient in potentially dangerous situations. After the war, their tasks diminished, and the vocation continued to die out.

Today only a few Csikós are left in the region, and it's becoming difficult to keep the ways of the horsemen alive, due to
modernization, agricultural changes, and urbanization. The demanding nature of the work has also led to a lack of interest among
young people, who prefer other career paths. As a result, the Csikós tradition is at serious risk of disappearing.

Preservation efforts through tourism and cultural programs are crucial to maintain this cultural heritage and keep the Csikós traditions alive for future generations. Demonstrations of their skills are often showcased at events and in places like the Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These efforts help keep the tradition alive and maintain its cultural significance in Hungary