Not long ago, a few of the Miss World 2012 contestants were lucky enough to attend a special event at the Genghis Khan mausoleum. Today, there was the chance to learn more as the delegates returned and visited the museum dedicated to one of Mongolia's most key historical figures.

A statue of Genghis Khan on horseback dominated the entrance to the museum and the contestants posed on the steps to capture the moment of their arrival. They were given a warm welcome and provided with sunhats and white Mongolian scarves so they could explore the sculptures that told the tale of the founder of the Mongol empire.


A series of yurts were arranged throughout the grounds of the museum - on closer inspection each one was on wheels! It was explained that when Genghis was conquering the nomadic tribes he would travel with his yurt and those of his army on ox-drawn carriages. (Allegedly he favoured oxen over horses for this task as they have better eyesight at night and so could keep travelling!)

The contestants could enter each yurt and see what living conditions would have been like for different members of the army. In one of the larger yurts, there was the opportunity to try on some of the traditional Mongolian clothing, which made for some wonderful pictures.

In the museum building there was an incredible painting called 'The Grand Spectacle of Mongolia'. It was based on historical data and depicted the life and campaigns of Genghis Khan since his birth until after his death. At 206 metres long it was impressive and captivating, and along the contestants could see other displays which showcased what weapons, clothing and shelter would have been like at different times in Mongolian history.

Emerging at the beautiful mausoleum, the delegates took the chance to look inside and witness the blessing that takes place there. It is reported that when Genghis Khan was travelling through the region of Ordos in 1226 he dropped his whip on the ground. He admired the grasslands where it fell so much that he insisted he wished to be buried in them. He died in 1227 at the age of 66 and though his exact burial place is a mystery the mausoleum is a place that people can visit to learn more about his incredible legacy.




For more updates on what the Miss World 2012 contestants are up to, remeber to check back here at MissWorld.com