Celebrations have begun in Mongolia to mark the 800th anniversary of Genghis Khan's establishment of the Mongol Empire.

One of the most successful warriors of all time, Genghis Khan united warring Mongol armies in 1206 before conquering much of Central Asia, and even China.

In the rolling Mongolian grasslands, soldiers and actors are marking the occasion by performing lavish re-enactments of their hero's greatest battles.

In battle, Genghis Khan's armies earned a reputation as fierce, ruthless fighters, and often shocked lumbering opponents with the speed of their attacks.

Despite a fearsome reputation worldwide, Khan is revered by most Mongolians, who have flocked into Ulan Bator for the celebrations and to visit new statues of their hero.

Elsewhere, Mongolians try out traditional pursuits and games, such as archery or ankle bone shooting, made popular during the days of empire.

Between 1206 and 1228, Genghis Khan's armies beat a series of rebellious tribes and foreign powers, establishing the Mongols as the pre-eminent power in the east.

Despite his popularity in Mongolia, in many of the lands that fell victim to his armies - such as Persia or China - Genghis Khan and his armies are viewed as destructive barbarians.

But despite the vast changes in Mongolian life in 800 years, villages, towns and cities across the country are expected to honour Genghis Khan over the next three days.