Genghis Khan/Chingis Khan

We visited the capital of Mongolia that Genghis Khan (pronounced and spelled here Chingis Khan). I have always known him as a brutal warlord with no redeeming qualities.

Here he is seen as a national hero who created a united Mongolia, reduced corruption, and encouraged religious tolerance. Our guide said that playing polo with the heads of those he conquered may have been a bit harsh, but she still respects him.

The monasetary in the town was nearly totally destroyed by the Soviets, but you could still see the remains of temples of various religions which seems to support the religious tolerance thing.