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Shepherds and adorned sheep compete in Turkiye s 853-year-old river crossing contest DENIZLI, TURKIYE - AUGUST 23: Shepherds guide their sheep to cross the Buyuk Menderes River during the 853-year-old traditional Sheep Crossing Water Contest in the Cal district of Denizli, Turkiye on August 23, 2026. This year s historic event saw 47 shepherds with 63 flocks participating from surrounding districts. Waiting their turn since sunrise, the shepherds led their painted and decorated leader sheep ( elci ) to guide the rest of the flock across the river. Mahmut Serdar Alakus Anadolu Denizli Turkey. Editorial use only. Please get in touch for any other usage.

Shepherds and adorned sheep compete in Turkiye s 853-year-old river crossing contest DENIZLI, TURKIYE - AUGUST 23: Shepherds guide their sheep to cross the Buyuk Menderes River during the 853-year-old traditional Sheep Crossing Water Contest in the Cal district of Denizli, Turkiye on August 23, 2026. This year s historic event saw 47 shepherds with 63 flocks participating from surrounding districts. Waiting their turn since sunrise, the shepherds led their painted and decorated leader sheep ( elci ) to guide the rest of the flock across the river. Mahmut Serdar Alakus Anadolu Denizli Turkey. Editorial use only. Please get in touch for any other usage.

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Credit: Anadolu Agency

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Recording Date: Aug 23, 2026

Media Size: 3,543×2,362 Pixels

Shepherds and adorned sheep compete in Turkiye s 853-year-old river crossing contest DENIZLI, TURKIYE - AUGUST 23: Shepherds guide their sheep to cross the Buyuk Menderes River during the 853-year-old traditional Sheep Crossing Water Contest in the Cal district of Denizli, Turkiye on August 23, 2026. This year s historic event saw 47 shepherds with 63 flocks participating from surrounding districts. Waiting their turn since sunrise, the shepherds led their painted and decorated leader sheep ( elci ) to guide the rest of the flock across the river. Mahmut Serdar Alakus Anadolu Denizli Turkey. Editorial use only. Please get in touch for any other usage.

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