Have you ever wondered why a horseshoe is considered a symbol of good luck?

The belief that a horseshoe brings good luck is based on a combination of ancient traditions, mythologies and symbolism that has grown over the centuries. There are several reasons why a horseshoe is considered a good luck charm, each stemming from ancient legends to contemporary customs. In this blog, you will find interesting facts and stories about the horseshoe as a good luck charm.

Magical properties of the horseshoe

In many ancient cultures, including those of the Celts and Teutons, iron was seen as a magical and protective metal. It had the power to ward off evil spirits, demons and evil forces. Because horseshoes were traditionally made of iron, they were considered powerful protectors of homes and people.

The shape of the horseshoe for good luck

The crescent shape of the horseshoe is associated with good luck and prosperity in many cultures. The crescent moon was a symbol of fertility, strength and growth. In some cultures, such as the Celts, the moon was even revered as a divine force. Therefore, the shape of the horseshoe was seen as a symbol that attracts positive energy and protects it from negative influences.

Medieval beliefs and the legend of St. Dunstan

The most famous legend about Saint Dunstan and the horseshoe is about his encounter with the devil, and this event explains why horseshoes are seen as a protector against evil spirits. According to the legend, Dunstan worked as a blacksmith before becoming a monk. One day the devil is said to have visited him, disguised as an ordinary man, and asked Dunstan to shoe his horseshoe again. However, Dunstan immediately recognized who the man was and decided to teach him a lesson.

Instead of carefully attaching the horseshoe to the devil's hoof, Dunstan struck it with such force and skill that the devil was in pain and begged for mercy. Dunstan agreed to free the devil, but only under one condition: the devil had to promise never to enter a house where a horseshoe hung over the door.

This story reinforced the belief that horseshoes are protective and bring good luck by warding off evil forces and letting in only positive energy.

The symbolic power of horses

Horses were traditionally a valuable asset and played an important role in agriculture, transportation and warfare. A horse was often seen as a sign of wealth and power. Because horseshoes protected the hooves of these noble animals, the horseshoe itself became a symbol of prosperity, protection and good luck. Having a horseshoe was seen as a sign of prosperity and good luck, especially in agricultural societies where horses were crucial to daily life.

The lucky number seven

Traditional horseshoes have holes for the nails (hoof nails) used to attach them to the hooves. From the point of view of luck, seven holes are often punched with hoof nails. The number seven is considered a magical and lucky number in many cultures. This has contributed to the belief that horseshoes combined with the number seven bring extra luck and prosperity.

Symbolism in modern times

In modern times, the horseshoe has become a popular symbol of good luck worldwide. It is often used in decorations, jewelry and logos as a universally recognizable sign of prosperity. This symbolism has come about partly through cultural diffusion of European superstitions, and partly through the horseshoe's enduring association with protection, luck and positive energy.

The horseshoe is thus seen as a good luck charm because of its association with the protective and magical metal, its shape that has positively charged symbolism, legends such as that of St. Dunstan, and its connection to horses and prosperity. Whether used to ward off evil spirits or to hold good luck, the horseshoe remains a powerful and popular good luck charm. Even in the modern world.

The position of the horseshoe for good luck

There are different opinions on how to hang a horseshoe to bring good luck:

• Tip up: This is seen as a way to “catch” and hold good luck, like a bowl that fills with good luck. In many European traditions, the horseshoe should be hung this way to ensure that the house remains filled with prosperity.
• Tip down: In some cultures, the horseshoe is hung with the open end down. It is believed that luck “flows” this way and is spread to everyone in the neighborhood, or that luck surrounds the inhabitants of the house.

For more information on hanging a horseshoe visit our blog “How to hang a horseshoe for luck?”

Horseshoe as a Gift

A horseshoe is often given as a gift, serving as a symbolic gesture for good luck and prosperity. The idea that a horseshoe brings good luck makes it a perfect gift for special occasions such as a wedding gift, birthday gift or for a housewarming. By giving someone a horseshoe, you are not only adding a unique and meaningful object to their life, but you are also sharing an ancient tradition that represents joy and prosperity.