Notes on the Lecture: 800th Anniversary of Kharakhorum

Introduction

• Celebrating 800th anniversary of Kharakhorum, capital city of the Mongol Empire.
• Kharakhorum: Symbol of independence, unity, and national pride for Mongolians.
• Creation of a virtual Kharakhorum by National University of Mongolia.
• Modern technology allows education through virtual experiences of historical sites.

Virtual Kharakhorum Project

• Led by Dr. Enkhbayar, utilizing emerging technologies.
• Aims to educate younger generations on Mongolian history.
• Funded by Mongolian Foundation of Science and Technology, Rio Tinto Mongolia, and partners.

Historical Background of Kharakhorum

• Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, relocated to Orkhon River Valley.
• Urged artisans and craftsmen to construct the city under Ögedei Khan.
• Historical evidence of Mongolian settled civilization alongside nomadic lifestyle.

Structure and Features of Kharakhorum

• Divided into four quarters with distinct functions.
  • Great Khan’s Palace: Located in the south.
  • Mongol Ger District: In the northwest.
  • Saracens Quarter: Northeast, hosted religious buildings.
• Markets and craftsmen districts at city gates.

Cultural and Trade Aspects

• Diverse religious communities coexisted peacefully.
• Pax Mongolica ensured harmony among varied religious backgrounds.
• Marco Polo documented the city’s multicultural nature.
• Significant trade quarters like Saracens and Catalans Quarters.

Mongol Quarter and Production

• Provided dairy and meat products.
• Mongols engaged in production processes, including ceramics and equipment molds.

The Great Tsogt Temple

• Tallest structure in Kharakhorum.
• Initially misidentified as the Great Khan’s palace.
• Buddhist influence with multiple religious buildings in the city.

Architectural Insights

• Temple built during Ögedei and Möngke Khan reigns.
• Renovations recorded in inscriptions.
• Emphasized Buddhist architecture traditions like mandalas.

The Tumen Amgalant Ord (Palace of Myriad Peace)

• Extravagant royal palace with Mongolian identity.
• Embellished with luxurious interiors and a significant Silver Tree.
• Descriptions by historical figures like William of Rubruck and Juvaini.

Future of Virtual Technology in Historiography

• Plans to create more virtual environments of historical Mongolian cities.
• Encourages preservation of history and culture through technological advances.