Erdene Zuu Monastery, located in Kharkhorin, Mongolia, is one of the oldest surviving Buddhist monasteries in the country. Founded in 1585 by Abtai Sain Khan, it stands on the ruins of the ancient Mongol capital of Karakorum. The monastery complex originally boasted over 100 temples and housed up to 1,000 monks, although much of it was destroyed during the Stalinist purges of the 1930s. Today, it functions as both a museum and an active place of worship, featuring stunning architecture, intricate artwork, and an array of Buddhist artifacts.
Karakorum, located in Kharkhorin, Mongolia, was the capital of the Mongol Empire during the 13th century under the rule of Genghis Khan and his successors. It played a crucial role as a political, economic, and cultural hub of the empire. The city was strategically positioned along the Silk Road, fostering trade and interaction between the East and West. Notable remnants include the Erdene Zuu Monastery, which was built in the 16th century on the ruins of Karakorum and stands as a symbol of Mongolia's Buddhist heritage.
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