The Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous land empire in history, spanning approximately 24 million square kilometres and encompassing a population of 100 million; approximately a quarter of the global population at the time. At its peak in the mid 13th century, the Empire’s territory stretched from the eastern borders of modern day Poland and Hungary to the Sea of Japan.
To facilitate communication in this vast territorial expanse, the Örtöö system (romanized as Yam) was set up. A network of relay stations was constructed, typically spaced 20 to 40 miles apart, and strategically located along major trade routes and roads. Each relay station would be stocked with spare horses and food, and would have accommodation for messengers.
When a messenger arrived, he’d dismount and pass the information on to another messenger, who’d quickly be dispatched to the next relay station 20 to 40 miles away. The system kept the delivery of messages constantly on the move and prevented delays due to fatigue of the horse rider.
Riders were carefully selected and trained. They needed to be excellent horsemen with the ability to travel long distances at high speeds, and they also needed to have demonstrated loyalty to the Mongol Emperor to ensure sensitive information was kept secret and protected.
It’s estimated that messages could travel up to 200-300 kilometres per day, enhancing administrative and military efficiency. It ensured rapid communication between provincial governors, military commanders and the central government, and it also facilitated the the transport of goods across the empire.
While the Örtöö system was highly effective and innovative, there were several challenges. The extensive network of relay stations had high maintenance costs, and despite elite-level selections of riders, there were still risks of messages being intercepted or tampered with. But along with challenges came opportunities. The Örtöö system was set up primarily to transmit messages across long distances, but it also helped facilitate cultural exchange and the flow of ideas, contributing to the Mongol Empire’s cultural diversity and innovation.
The Örtöö system is recounted in the journey of the Venetian merchant Marco Polo, who traveled from Venice to the court of Kublai Khan in 1275. He stayed for around 17 years and was often sent on diplomatic missions across the empire. Marco Polo experienced the Örtöö system firsthand, in particular being awestruck at the efficiency and security of relay stations that were an integral part of the administrative machine.
