Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue
Estatua ecuestre de Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue (Tuul River, Tsonjin Boldog) — Genghis Khan is perhaps the most illustrious Mongolian figure in history. His long and bloody reign resulted in the deaths of over 40 million people, and it is estimated that one in 200 people in the entire world are descended from him. To the Mongolian people, Khan represents a glorious part of their history, a figure who placed them all on the world map as a force to be reckoned with.
About 50 kilometers east of the Mongolian capital, a huge statue of Genghis Khan astride his horse was erected in 2008, where it stands at 40 meters high. It’s the largest equestrian statue in the world, and at its base, visitors can find museums, view Mongolian portraits, and even try on traditional Mongolian garb. The top of the horse’s head is a viewing platform (for visitors wanting a panoramic view of the surrounding area). Admission: 7,000₮ (adult); 3,500₮ (child). Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (daily).
Note: 1 km east of Genghis Khan statue is Hoelun Monument — erected to celebrate the mother of Genghis Khan. Just like Börte (the famous first wife of Genghis Khan), Hoelun was generally recognized as a wise adviser to the great King, one of the trustworthy ones. During the great battles leaded by her son, she took care of the orphans, adopted them and integrated them into the family, as a smart strategy to gain loyalty over the conquered tribes.