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Sukhbaatar square. Ulaanbaatar.

THE REGIONS OF MONGOLIA

SIGHTS OF INTEREST IN MONGOLIA

SUKHBAATAR SQUARE

Sükhbaatar Square, nestled in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, serves as a vibrant testament to Mongolia's rich history and cultural pride. This iconic square is named after Damdin Sükhbaatar, a revered national hero known for leading the revolution that resulted in Mongolia’s independence in the early 20th century. As you step onto the expansive grounds, surrounded by the majestic façades of government buildings and cultural institutions, you can feel the pulse of Mongolian history underfoot. It's a place where stories of the past meet the rhythm of modern life, as locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate national events, enjoy leisurely strolls, and take in the grandeur of this symbolic site.

Central to the square is a commanding statue of Sükhbaatar himself, astride his horse, a poignant reminder of the determination and courage that shaped the nation. The square is not just a historical landmark; it is a focal point of Mongolian civic life, a space where traditions are honored and the future is envisioned. The backdrop of the State Palace, with its imposing columns and the ceremonial changing of the guards, adds a layer of sophistication and solemnity to your visit. The open-air ambience of Sükhbaatar Square encourages visitors to pause and appreciate the harmonious blend of history, architecture, and community spirit.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, cultural explorer, or simply a traveler eager to experience the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Sükhbaatar Square offers a captivating glimpse into the soul of Mongolia. Its significance is not only etched in stone but also in the hearts of those who visit, providing an enriching experience that lingers long after your journey has ended. As you walk through the square, taking in its grandeur and vibrancy, you join the countless others who have been drawn to this emblematic site, making your own mark on its continuing story.

In July 1921 in the center of Ulaanbaatar, the 'hero of the revolution', Damdin Sukhbaatar, declared Mongolia's final independence from the Chinese. The Square now bears his name and features a statue of him astride his horse. The words he apparently proclaimed at the time are engraved on the bottom of the statue: 'If we, the whole people, unite in our common effort and common will, there will be nothing in the world that we cannot achieve, that we will not have learnt or failed to do.'

Sukhbaatar would have been very disappointed to learn that the Square was also where the first protests were held in 1989, which eventually led to the fall of communism. Today, the Square is occasionally used for rallies, ceremonies and even rock concerts, but is generally a serene place where only the photographers - standing in a straight line selling their services - are doing anything.

Monument to General to change its Appearance. The monument to D. Sukhbaatar on the central square will be covered in bronze, the joint work of Mongolian and North Korean sculptors. This work will be completed before the Day of Declaration of the Republic, or November 26, 2008. The main part of the monument will be created in Pyuongyang, with assembly work to be implemented by Mongolian sculptors in cooperation with North Korean sculptors. Descendants of the 1921 revolutionists have requested that the design, size and form of the monument, with its 60-year history and created by the foremost political and art figures of Mongolia, should not be altered. The issue of reconstruction of this monument has been discussed since 2004.

As you face North from the statue, the large gray building is State Parliament House, commonly known as Government House - which, like every ger, was built to face south. Directly in front of it is a mausoleum, built in 1921, which contains the remains of Sukhbaatar, and possibly Choibalsan.

To the North-East is the tall, modern Palace of Culture, a useful landmark containing the Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery and several other cultural institutions. At the south-east corner of the Square, the salmon-pinkish building is the State Opera & Ballet Theatre.

On the north-western corner of the Square, the bright yellow building houses the Golomt Bank, with the gray National Museum of Mongolian History behind it. The Mongolian Museum of National History has many interesting exhibits related to D. Sukhbaatar and his spouse S. Yanjmaa, including a Mauser pistol, whip, clothes, cups, etc. The number of exhibits exceeds 100 and one of the most interesting is an axe with broken handle. This was found by the General's father, Damdin, and taken as a good omen when Sukhbaatar was born, and so he gave his son the name of "Sukh", which means axe in Mongolian.

South of the Golomt Bank, the clay-red building (now with bright blue patches around the windows) is the Mongolian Stock Exchange, which was opened in February 1992 in the former Children's Cinema.

As the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Sukhbaatar Square stands as a symbol of Mongolia's vibrant culture and rich history. Its vast expanse, surrounded by some of the city's most significant architectural landmarks, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the nation's past and present. The majestic statue of Damdin Sukhbaatar, a revered figure in gaining Mongolia's independence, proudly occupies the center of the square, making it a focal point for both locals and tourists alike. Enveloped by the grandeur of State Palace and the breath-taking vistas of the surrounding mountains, a stroll across the square is a journey through time and heritage.

Our guided tours provide an immersive experience, allowing you to unravel the stories behind each monument and soak in the significance of this monumental space. Our professional guides are experts in weaving the tales of Mongolia's journey from its ancient roots to its modern-day prominence. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk at your own pace or seek engaging narrations during a guided tour, Sukhbaatar Square invites you to witness its splendor.

Join us at Legend Tour to explore Sukhbaatar Square, where history silently whispers and invites you into the soul of Mongolia. Whether you choose to wander independently or delve into the square's depths with a knowledgeable guide, your experience will be nothing short of captivating. Let the stories, sights, and atmosphere of this iconic location leave an indelible mark on your travel journey.