Cruising down the highway towards Ulaanbaatar, a good 450 kilometers to go, a curious sight snagged our attention. A massive square monument peeked at us from the roadside, beckoning for a closer look. We heeded the call, and our curiosity was rewarded.
This imposing structure, guarded by a vast 100-meter square compound, wasn’t your average monument. Instead, it housed a breathtaking display of 25 vibrant horse statues, meticulously arranged in a symmetrical dance. Twelve statues proudly stood on each side, forming two distinct groups, while a single, larger one took center stage like a majestic conductor. Each statue sported a plaque, likely brimming with details about the horses they portrayed, but unfortunately in a language beyond our understanding.
The grandeur didn’t stop there. The perimeter fence itself was a sight to behold. Forget boring pickets – this was a golden spectacle of intricately decorated pillars, further emphasizing the monument’s significance and the horses it celebrated.
A small entrance fee felt like a bargain for access to this unique monument. After a half-hour of marveling at the impressive statues and exploring the compound, we continued our journey towards Ulaanbaatar. This unexpected detour proved to be a fascinating glimpse into the deep connection between Mongolia and its beloved horses, leaving a lasting impression on our memory banks (and a few extra pictures on our cameras).
