Once been a capital of ancient Mongol empire under the rule of Chinggis Khaan’s son Ogedei Khaan Ogedei), the capital knowns as Karakorum was architectural and cultural wonder of its time. It was established as the Empire’s capital city in 1221 by the decree of Chinggis Khaan, in its development peak it is said to have accommodated Ogedei Khaan's "Tumen Amgalant Palace" with wondrous “Silver Tree”, and Munkh Khaan's Five floored great stupa.
Unfortunately, after the fall of Great Mongol Empire the city was permanently damaged by several attacks of Ming Dynesty soldiers and civil wars among the Mongolian Lords who sought after the throne and by 14th century, once flourishing city was destroyed and left in ruins. During its existence of 140 years, it had been the capital city for 32 years. The plain where the city located was left with blocks and stones scattered here and there, until they had been later picked up and used in the constructions of nearby Erdene Zuu monastery in 16th century.
Now only some of the building foundations remain visible and most of the city remains lay underground yet to be excavated. Today, the museum of Kharkhorin exhibits small model of the city which gives visitors an vivid idea of how the city looked in its peak.
