Bilge Xan memorial
Part of the Orxon Valley Cultural Landscape World Heritage Site.
Mogilyan, son of the Türkic Xan Elteres, was born in 683. He became leader of the Turks in 716 and was accorded the title of "Bilge", meaning "Wise". During his reign he made significant contributions to the economic and cultural development of the Türkic Empire. Bilge Xan died on February 25, 734, and a sacrificial temple built in his honour was constructed on June 22 of the following year.
The Bilge Xan memorial is located on the western bank of the Old Orxon River, at the southern end of Caidam Valley. It is surrounded by a square wall measuring 96 x 60 metres, inside of which are the traces of a moat. In the western part of the central enclosed area there is a square-shaped sacred stone (2.4 x 1.2m), and in the centre of the complex are located the square foundations of the former sacrificial temple. A white marble turtle monument is located in the eastern part of the area. The central part of the monument has a compressed earthen floor, with a thickness of 40 cm. So-called bal-bal stones extend eastwards in a line from the stele installed on the back of the turtle monument for about 3 km. These stones are believed to correspond either to the number of enemies exterminated by the hero, or alternatively to the number of people who participated in the funeral ceremony. The most impressive element of the Bilge Xan memorial is its runic stele, which has broken apart into three pieces but remains highly legible. The top of the monument is decorated with the figure of a twisting dragon, while the front is decorated with the figure of an ibex, apparently the totemic symbol of Turkic xans. The principal text of the stele describes the ancestry, honours and achievements of Bilge Xan; on the rear face of the monument there is also a message of condolence sent by the Tan Emperor, inscribed in Chinese characters. The memorial complex further includes several human statues, among which are the carved statues of a man and woman seated in a cross-legged position, assumed to represent Bilge Xan and his queen. The heads of these monuments were all cut off by the Uighurs at the time of their conquest of the Turkic Empire.
 | In commemoration of the legacy and teachings of His Holiness Dulduit Danzanravzhaa Fifth Wrathful Noble Xutagt of the Great Gobi (1803-1856) I did not overbearingly sophize Nor preach with pride and arrogance But having found a sense in this world Spoke the truth of my dear heart. |   |