Mongolia
Catching a glimpse of nomadic life
Travellers who explore the vast expanses of Mongolia will frequently find themselves intrigued by small and seemingly insignificant details. Mongolia is a mystical, rugged country, characterised by its large territory, wind and the ever-changing colours of its countryside. It covers an area which stretches from the Siberian steppe in the north to the sand and stone deserts of the Gobi in the south, from the Altai Mountains in the west to the Chinese Wall in the east. The Mongolian steppe is as vast as an ocean, with winds blowing incessantly. Wind combs through the grass, drives spiral-shaped banners of sand through the barren landscape, curls the surface of its extensive lakes, and makes the blue flags flutter on top of the Owoos. Owoos, these mighty stone edifices where horse hair, horse skulls, goats' ears, milk and taiga incense are offered as sacrifice, bear testimony of the omnipresence of the animistic Bon religion. However, lamaism, brutally suppressed during decades of Russian and Chinese influence, has begun to reassert itself, be it by the foundation of simple yurt temples or by the reconstruction of old monasteries which had been left to decay.
Wherever there is sufficient water and pastureland for livestock, yurts are erected, these circular, mobile tents, consisting of wooden lattice frames, pliable rods, felt mats, an iron fireplace and the distinctive wooden door which always points to the east. This is the austere living space of the nomad families who, as their daily chore, raise livestock, milk their mares and goats and process their milk, slaughter animals, shear sheep and make felt for their yurts. This photographic journey will take you from Ulan Bator right across the Mongolian steppe to the lofty heights of the Altai mountain range.