The special exhibition of Genghis Khan has invaded Atlanta!
This past week my family and I had the opportunity to view this fantastic exhibit that includes more than 200 rare, authentic relics from the conqueror’s reign, empire and legacy. The story of Genghis Khan is told through a mixture of artifacts, videos and dioramas.
My husband and son were mesmerized by the armor and weaponry of Genghis Khan's extensive army of over 100,000 soldiers. The guys loved seeing the bows and arrows, as well as a full-scale replica of a catapult, and a giant siege crossbow. They were amazed to learn how horsemanship and their skill as mounted archers gave Mongol warriors a huge advantage over their enemies. And my daughter thought it was neat to discover that even girls were taught to fight.
My husband and son were mesmerized by the armor and weaponry of Genghis Khan's extensive army of over 100,000 soldiers. The guys loved seeing the bows and arrows, as well as a full-scale replica of a catapult, and a giant siege crossbow. They were amazed to learn how horsemanship and their skill as mounted archers gave Mongol warriors a huge advantage over their enemies. And my daughter thought it was neat to discover that even girls were taught to fight.
I found myself more interested in trying to understand the psychology behind Genghis Khan, and fascinated by his influence on the world, even today. I learned he was named Temujin at birth and he had a very difficult childhood. I was facinated to learn that things we take for granted such as pants and hamburgers began with Khan, and that paper money and mail service were two methods Genghis Khan used to manage his empire.
Amazingly, in only 25 years, Khan’s army conquered more lands and people than the Romans during their entire 400-year rule, creating the largest continuous land empire in history. At its height, the Mongol Empire spanned more than 11 million square miles across Eastern Europe and Asia—more than four times the size of the Roman Empire.
In addition, the exhibit includes a collection of artifacts highlightling Genghis Khan's grandson, Kublai Khan, as well as the journeys of Marco Polo. And you won't want to miss the Princess Giant Mummy when you go!
Ticket and Visitor Information
Fernbank Museum of Natural History is located at 767 Clifton Road, NE in Atlanta. Genghis Khan is on view from October 5, 2012 through January 21, 2013 and is included with Museum admission: $17.50 for adults, $16.50 for students and seniors, $15.50 for children ages 3 to 12 (ages 2 and under are free), and free for museum members. Tickets and information are available at fernbankmuseum.org or 404.929.6300.
