Memorials of Medieval Mongolia: the Originals and a History of Reconstructions

Abstract

With evidence from literary, electronic, visual sources, the article investigates the original medieval monuments of Mongolia and their reconstructions. This work resulted in a compilation of a consolidated list of corresponding items to be found in Russia and Mongolia’s
museums. Due to objective reasons the list is short, but it does provide an overview of development of national military affairs. Nowadays ― after many years of oblivion ― there is an increasing interest towards medieval Mongolian culture. A history of reconstructions of medieval armor and equipment revealed an opportunity for graduation of popular and scientifc historical reconstructions. Despite some common features, each one has its certain objectives, targets and specifcs, still the trends complement each other. Popular historical reenactments had emerged earlier and became widespread enough. Due to this trend, on the basis of scientifc studies archaeologists have established a new methodology for research of historical reconstructions and implemented it in practice resulting in the establishment a scientifc school. Nowadays the medieval arts of war, including Mongolian ones, are represented by a large block of remakes of military equipment, the degree of reliability of the armor
being quite high. In many cases, traditional medieval techniques and materials are used, which had
been restored by academic researchers. Many such items received the status of museum objects,
replenishing funds of famous museums. Thus, one can witness the emergence of a living history
museum in Mongolia as a new form for a revival of historical memory and cultural heritage of the
Mongolian Empire. Preservation of the country’s nomadic way of life contributes to the creation of
reliable authentic reconstructions with the use of medieval technologies and materials still to be seen
in modern everyday life. Integration of historical heritage into tourism is advantageous both from an
economic point of view, and from the perspective of preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.