Stallen

Stallen is a Dutch term with two common uses. As a noun, it is the plural of stal and refers to buildings or facilities used to house livestock, especially horses, on a farm. As a verb, stallen means to place animals or vehicles in a stable or sheltered space, or to store something temporarily in a designated shelter. In everyday language, stallen often denotes the stable complex on a farm or riding facility.

Construction and layout of stallen vary by species and use. A horse stable typically includes individual stalls separated by partitions, with feed troughs, water supply, and bedding such as straw. Cattle barns may use similar stall concepts but differ in dimensions and equipment. Common features across stallen are good ventilation, drainage, and a durable structure—often combining wood, brick, metal, and proper roofing. Some facilities also include a tack room, storage areas, and a loft for hay.

Function and management are focused on shelter, feeding, and animal care. Daily tasks include mucking out stalls, replenishing bedding, feeding and watering animals, and managing manure and waste. Welfare considerations emphasize adequate space, ventilation, lighting, temperature control, and fire safety. In many countries, building standards and animal-welfare regulations influence stable design and operations, prompting modernization such as automated feeding, climate control, and enhanced sanitation.

History and regional usage: stallen are integral to Dutch-speaking agricultural and equestrian landscapes, with forms ranging from traditional timber-framed structures to modern brick or metal facilities. The concept reflects long-standing agricultural practices and evolving approaches to animal care, labor efficiency, and farm hygiene.

See also: stable, barn (agriculture), horse stable.