Mongolia is one of the most amazing countries, where people still live in yurts, where your most valuable possession is a faithful horse, and where you drink kumis, a popular drink made from mare’s milk, to quench your thirst. Even though Asia’s greatest empire preserved its traditional way of life almost intact, and its steppes still remember the hooves of the enormous cavalry of fearless Genghis Khan, today it is a modern country with cold winters and dry summers. It becomes a popular tourist destination, thanks to the locals’ hospitality and unusual attractions. Ecotourism fans will appreciate picturesque mountain landscapes and the clearest emerald lakes. Connoisseurs of sacred architecture will be amazed at the splendor of Buddhist temples and monasteries. At the same time, lovers of pedigreed horses will enjoy the most beautiful representatives of these graceful creatures. But whatever brings a curious traveler to this land, it will hardly be possible for them to ignore the most important national attraction.
A few kilometers from the center of the capital of the country, Ulaanbaatar, stands the largest equestrian statue in the world and the biggest monument in Mongolia. It is dedicated to the great warrior and founder of the Mongol Empire, legendary Genghis Khan. It was erected in 2008 at the very place where, according to a legend, the first khan found his golden whip.
A huge monument, 40 meters high, rises on a 10-meter pedestal. It is surrounded by 36 thin pillars, symbolizing all the khans of the great empire. Weighing more than 250 tons, it is a magnificent work by the Mongolian sculptor D. Erdenebileg. It has become a symbol not only of the city but of the entire country.
Inside the two-floor pedestal, the National Art Gallery and a historical museum of the ancient Hunnu nomads era display their stunning collections. At the very top of the renowned statue, right on the horse’s head, a spacious observation deck invites you to see a breathtaking view of a vast theme park and endless Mongolian steppes.
An old map is considered the most valuable exhibit of the historical museum, located on the statue’s ground floor. It marks the entire path and conquests of the first khan of the Mongol Empire, Genghis Khan. Also, here you can see a replica of the world-famous golden whip of the legendary warrior.
Besides, there is a small conference room, a gift shop, a restaurant, and even a poolhall. You can get to the observation deck either by stairs or by an elevator.
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