In the 13th century city of Khanbaliq (modern: Beijing), the science of astronomy was funded and encouraged by the Mongol Emperor Kublai Khan in order to advance the art of astrology. Many other arts were popular in that city as well.
A relay system of post offices with legendary Mongol horsemen riding between provided for the speedy delivery of goods and messages throughout the vast Mongol Empire.
In 1254 A.D., King Hethum I of Armenian Cilicia, a kingdom on the Mediterranean coast in the midst of the Crusades, sought an alliance with the world’s mightiest power of the time, the Mongol Empire. The overland journey was far flung and dangerous and many barbarian nations were encountered therein, but the result was a success and curious adventure.
tldr History 