5 Facts of Mongolia

The capital of Mongolia is Ulan Bator

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

The Great Wall of China is actually in Inner Mongolia. During the Manchu Dynasty Mongolia was divided into outer Mongolia and Inner Mongolia. The original walls were built as early as the fifth century BC. The parts of the Great Wall that we know today were built during the Ming Dynasty as a way to deter nomadic invasions. Unlike earlier fortifications, the newer sections were built with brick and stone.

2

Ulaanbaatar or Ulan Bator is the coldest capital city in the world. Ulayanbayatur literally translates to red hero. For nearly 140 years it served as a nomadic city. Finally settling in its present location in 1778. In modern times Ulan Bator has become a major hub for manufacturing.

3

The Genghis Khan statue in Ulan Bator is the largest equestrian statue in the world. The location coincides with several events in Mongolia's history. The most notable being the place where Genghis Khan supposedly found a golden whip. Even today people who find whips are supposed to be lucky. The design even allows for visitors to be able to climb inside and walk up to the head of the horse.

4

The Mongol messenger service set up by Genghis Khan in the thirteenth century may have influenced the American pony express. During the 13th century outpost were set up nearly a hundred and fifty miles apart. This was so messages could be delivered quickly on the battlefield. This system predates the American pony express by over 600 years.

5

Genghis Khan wasn't quite the barbarian that the western world makes him out to be. During his reign Khan had all important events and transactions recorded on paper. He even had an official Mongol language created. Also during his reign there were churches of almost every religion known. He kept the peace and severely punished those who didn't.