See it while you Khan

Genghis Khan is one of the most recognizable emperors in recorded history. While people may know his name, not everyone knows his legacy. Luckily, the Museum of the Rockies (MOR) has introduced a new exhibit displaying everything that you could ever want to know about the great ruler.

The exhibit takes patrons on a chronological journey through Ghengis Khan’s life from the moment he was born to the moment he died. Upon entering the exhibit, viewers are transported into the world of a Mongol. There are displays on typical living yurts or gurs, traditional cooking tools, armour, weapons and clothing. The most fascinating looking weapon on display is the triple-siege crossbow. It is a massive crossbow mounted on a table with wheels and is operated by multiple people. Originally made by the Chinese, the crossbow could shoot normal or burning tip arrows a great distance. To make the exhibit interactive, journeyers can take a character card at the beginning of the exhibit and visit electronic kiosks at every display. The kiosks will provide more information on the character they have chosen. For instance, if you were to choose a warrior, the kiosk will provide information on the warrior and how it relates to the display. By the time you leave the exhibit, you feel like you have lived the life of a Mongol.

While a majority of the exhibit is about Ghengis Khan, MOR has added displays on life after the famous ruler died, as well. With the help of Genghis Khan’s four sons, the Khan dynasty lasted from 1206-1368. As a result, the Khan Empire has had a large influence on modern society. It has been shown that an astounding 16 million males have the same Y chromosome as Genghis Khan. Additionally, items such as burgers, passports, eyeglasses and more originated from the Khan dynasty.

Per usual, MOR has added another captivating exhibit to an already compelling museum and has provided visitors the opportunity to learn about an empire and emperor that influenced the world we know today.