Ystoria Mongalorum

"Ystoria Mongalorum" is a report, compiled by a Franciscan Friar and papal envoy of Pope Innocent IV named Giovanni da Pian del Carpine, of his trip to the Mongol Empire. Written in the 1240s, it is the oldest European account of the Mongols and Carpini was the first European to try to chronicle Mongol history.

The report gives a narrative of his journey, what he had learned about Mongol history, as well as Mongol customs of the time. Manly scholars have speculated that Caprini was undoubtedly on a spy mission because the largest portion of the report consists of detailed descriptions of how well prepared the Mongols were for war and suggestions of how the various military leaders might resist them.

Caprini, as the first person at the time to have visited Mongolia, became somewhat of a celebrity upon returning to Europe. He gave what would be called today a lecture tour across the continent.

The "Tartar Relation"

Two versions of the "Ystoria Mongalorum" are known to exist: Carpini's own and another, usually referred to as the "Tartar Relation". The "Tartar Relation" is usually attributed to a companion of Carpini's, Benedict the Pole who is also responsible for a very short similar account of Mongolia.