Chechens

*Population estimates for 1994

The Chechens (or “Nakhcho” as they call themselves) are the natives of the North Caucasus. They were first mentioned in the Armenian chronicles under the name “Nakhkamatian.” Originally the Chechens lived in the mountains, but in the fifteenth to sixteenth centuries they moved to the plains. There the main occupation was agriculture, while in the mountains they were engaged in cattle breeding. “Chechens” is a Russian word given to this people after the name of the village of Bolshoi (Big) Chechen. By their appearance, the Chechens are indistinguishable from other Caucasian peoples.

Nowadays, the Chechens have preserved few ancient national traditions as well as certain elements of their national clothes. However, men still wear papakhas (tall Caucasian hat made of lambskin). Elderly men prefer riding-breeches and a high collar Caucasian shirt girded with a leather girdle with metallic decorations. Ladies also like decorations, such as necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

One cannot imagine a single Chechen holiday without vivid songs and hot-tempered dances; the most favorite among them is certainly Lezginka.

Chechen applied art is presented by stone and wood carving, artistic metal processing, jewelry manufacture, and gold and silver thread embroidery.

Chechen believers are Islamic (Sunnite branch).