The Caucasus Mountains are mountains of amazing beauty. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee recognized the threat to the site "Western Caucasus Western Caucasus Caucasus Mountains

The Caucasus is one of the largest mountain systems in the world. It occupies a huge area, and its peaks are the highest in our country - Elbrus, which belongs to the Central Caucasus system, even surpasses the European Mont Blanc. The Western Caucasus is part of the Greater Caucasus and also has interesting characteristics.

Location and composition

The Western Caucasus Mountains are part of the huge Greater Caucasus system, stretching for more than 1 thousand km. The width of this mountainous country can exceed 150 km. The highest mountains of the system are located in the central part of the Caucasus. The mountains of the Western Caucasus lag behind in height, but are distinguished by a high diversity of flora, fauna, and impressive views.

In addition to the Western Caucasus, the Greater Caucasus is also divided into the central and eastern parts. The territory of the Caucasus is located on a huge continental rise, which exceeds the height of all the surrounding plains. The slopes of the mountains are composed of rocks of different ages, from the most ancient to the youngest. Ancient rocks come out where it depends on geological folding processes, mainly in the interior regions of the Caucasus. The outer slopes consist of younger rocks.

The northwestern Caucasus received its current appearance as a result of modern geological processes. Glaciers play a big role in this, covering a significant area and feeding most of the local rivers.

In addition, glaciers contributed to the formation of modern landscapes - thanks to them, such types of formations as trough valleys, cirques, cirques, and moraines appeared in abundance. Some of them are still filled with glaciers, others, located below, may contain glacial lakes with clear water.

Features of the Western Caucasus

The mountains of the Western Caucasus are part of such Russian regions as the republics of Adygea, Karachay-Cherkessia, as well as the Krasnodar Territory. On the territory of this mountain system there are several conservation zones designed to protect rare and endangered species of animals and plants that are found only there or have been preserved from ancient times.

The western part of the North Caucasus is distinguished by an abundance of nival-glacial landscape types created by the passage of glaciers. Often in valleys of this origin there are lakes with crystal clear water. All rivers originating in these mountains are distinguished by the great purity and transparency of their waters, since the amount of solid runoff is minimal.

The Western Caucasus is distinguished not only by the habitat of many species of rare animals and plants, but the very nature of this mountain system amazes with its grandeur and beauty. In these places you can see snow-capped mountains, gigantic trees, fast mountain rivers with impressive waterfalls.

The unification of these republics into one group is due to the common geographical location and kinship of the peoples living in them - Adygeans, Circassians, Kabardians, who occupy mainly foothill spaces. Karachais and Balkars prefer mountainous areas. In addition to these peoples, Russians, Abazas and Nogais live in all republics.

Historically, the natives did not compete in socially useful activities, but complemented each other. The Karachais and Nogais are traditionally engaged in livestock farming, the Circassians and Abazas are traditionally engaged in gardening. The professional orientation of other peoples is less pronounced, although in relation to the Russians it can definitely be said that in these republics they form the basis of the working class and technical intelligentsia.

The aboriginal population living here is divided into two groups of peoples: Abkhaz-Adyghe (belongs to the North Caucasian family) and Turkic (Altai family). The first group includes Kabardins, Adygeis, Circassians, Abazas, the second - Karachais, Balkars, Nogais.

Republic of Adygea located on the left bank of the Kuban and Laba. Adygeis (self-name - Adyge) are settled mainly in the west and east of the Republic. In the XIII-XIV centuries. Some of the Circassians moved to the Terek River basin, and the bulk remained on the Black Sea coast and in the Trans-Kuban region. In the 13th century. After stubborn resistance, the Circassians were conquered by the Golden Horde. In the middle of the 16th century. The Adyghe-Kabardinian peoples voluntarily joined Russia. In 1922, the Adygea (Circassian) Autonomous Region was created, in 1925 it was included in the North Caucasus Territory, and in 1928 it became known as the Adygea Autonomous Region. From 1936 to 1993, the Adygea Autonomous Region was part of the Krasnodar Territory; since 1993, the Republic of Adygea was part of the Russian Federation.

Adygea specializes in livestock-grain farming. The grain-tobacco-livestock type of enterprise became widespread. There are specialized farms for growing essential oil crops, hemp and potatoes. The industry is dominated by the processing of agricultural raw materials (cheese-making, oil-processing, meat). Previously exploited oil fields have been depleted.

The capital of the Republic - Maykop - was founded in 1857 as a Russian fortress; at the final stage of the Caucasian War, it served as a military-strategic point in the conquest of Circassia. In modern Maikop, mechanical engineering and the food industry are developed.

Karachay-Cherkess Republic occupies the northern slope of the Greater Caucasus; since ancient times, the ancestors of the Karachais and Circassians lived on this territory. In the XIV-XVI centuries. The Abazas moved here from Abkhazia in the 17th century. from the Azov and Volga regions - Nogais. From the first half of the 19th century. - as part of Russia.

The Karachais (self-name - Karachayls) are related to the Balkars; local mountain tribes, as well as Alans, Bulgarians, and Kipchaks, participated in their formation. Circassians (Adyges) - the general name of the Circassians. Abaza (Abaza) are descendants of a multilingual population that lived on the eastern coast of the Black Sea. Nogai (Nogai) are descendants of Turkic and Mongolian tribes that were part of the ulus of the Golden Horde temnik Nogai, mixed with the Turkic-speaking Polovtsians and adopted their language.

The Karachais live mainly in the southern part of the Republic, and the Circassians, Abazas and Nogais - in the northern.

In 1922, the Karachay-Cherkess Autonomous Region was formed, and in 1926 it was divided into the Karachay Autonomous Region and the Circassian National District. The latter was transformed into an autonomous region within the North Caucasus Territory of the RSFSR in 1928. In 1943, the Karachay Autonomous Region was abolished. In 1957, the Karachay-Cherkess Autonomous Region was formed as part of the Stavropol Territory. Karachay-Cherkessia has existed as a republic within the Russian Federation since 1993.

The economy of the Republic is represented by meat and dairy cattle breeding, sheep breeding, and grain farming. Sugar beets, sunflowers, vegetables and fruits are also cultivated. The cities have developed dairy and meat industries. The timber, mining, cement and chemical industries are based on local resources. Recreational resources are used for the development of mountain tourism, mountaineering and resort management (Teberda, Dombay, Arkhyz).

Kabardino-Balkarian Republic also located on the northern slope of the Greater Caucasus. The Kabardians, one of the branches of the Adyghe tribe, separated here from the rest of their fellow tribesmen in the 11th century, and by the 14th century. formed a separate people. The Balkar people were formed as a result of the mixing of North Caucasian and Alan tribes with the Bulgarians and Kipchaks who settled in the foothills of the Caucasus. At the beginning of the 13th century. In connection with the invasion of the Mongol-Tatars, the ancestors of the Balkars, after a long struggle, moved to the mountains. Kabarda and Balkaria became part of Russia at different times: the first - on a voluntary basis in 1557, the annexation of the second was completed by 1827.

In 1922, the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Region was formed, in 1936 it was transformed into the Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. Since 1993, Kabardino-Balkaria has been part of the Russian Federation as a republic. Today Kabardino-Balkaria is a producer of tungsten-molybdenum products, artificial diamonds and abrasive products made from them. In addition, mechanical engineering, the building materials industry, food and light industries are developed. The leading branches of agriculture include grain growing, industrial horticulture, vegetable growing, and in livestock farming - dairy farming.

The capital of the Republic is Nalchik, since 1808 - the administrative center of Kabarda, the residence of the Kabardian princes. In 1817, a Russian fortress was built here, at which in 1838 a military settlement was founded, which later (1871) became the center of the Nalchik district of the Terek region. In 1921, Nalchik received the status of a city - the center of the Kabardian region, and since 1922 - the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Region; in 1936-1991 - the capital of the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (in 1944-1957 - the Kabardian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic). Since 1993 - a republic within the Russian Federation.

Many travelers associate the Caucasus Mountains with incredible power. Indeed, not everyone obeys them. It is still unknown how this name came about, which has become familiar to many residents of Russia and the CIS. But many facts are known about these great mountains.

Where are the Caucasus Mountains

The territory of the mountain system, stretching for 1,100 kilometers, occupies areas from the northwest to the southeast. The Caucasus Mountains start from Anapa (Black Sea) to the Absheron Peninsula, located on the coast of the Caspian Sea.

Location of mountains on the map

Coordinates:

• 42°30′00" north latitude;
• 45°00′00" east longitude.

The Caucasus Mountains are divided into three sectors:

1. West.
2. Central.
3. Oriental.

The widest part of the Caucasus Mountains is Elbrus (about 180 kilometers).

The highest peak of the Caucasus Mountains

Elbrus is one of the most famous peaks not only in Russia, but also in Europe. This is the highest mountain in the Caucasus, reaching 5,642 meters. Elbrus is known for its developed tourist infrastructure, so people from different parts of Eurasia come here. There are numerous shelters at the disposal of travelers. Shelters first appeared here in the 1910s. There are also many cable cars. First of all, Elbrus is famous for its ski slopes. But many travelers who want to climb also come here.

View of the highest peak

Elbrus is considered relatively difficult to conquer. However, there are different routes. Some are suitable even for beginner climbers with an average level of physical fitness. But there are also very difficult paths that not everyone can take. The sad statistics of the conquest of Elbrus are known, which indicate 80% of accidents throughout the Elbrus region. Among the dead climbers are novice tourists and experienced climbers. Even masters of sports died on the formidable Elbrus. The danger of climbing lies in the difficulty of acclimatization on the slopes of the peak. There is also a real threat of falling into a crevice covered with snow. Travelers are advised to enlist the help of a guide who is experienced enough to help them understand the terrain.

The most famous route is the route along the southern slope. It is usually called classic. It is lightweight and corresponds to category 1B. The ascent takes no more than 10 days, so even taking into account acclimatization, almost all travelers successfully reach the peak of Elbrus. The route along the northern slope has a difficulty category of 2A. Difficult to climb up to 2,000 meters. The route along the eastern edge has a difficulty category of 2B, the most difficult routes to conquer Elbrus have difficulty categories of 3A and 5A. Accordingly, this is the northwestern edge and the western shoulder along the southern wall. You can walk these routes only with the help of special equipment and with the proper experience.

Relief of the Caucasus Mountains

The Caucasus Mountains are folded. Their formation is associated with volcanic activity. It is believed that the Caucasus Mountains were formed approximately 23 million years ago.

Beautiful relief of the Caucasus Mountains

The common name Greater Caucasus actually refers to several ridges that rise from north to south, forming stepped mountains. The smallest is the Pasture Ridge, after which the Rocky Ridge gradually rises, then you can see the Advanced Ridge, on which such famous peaks as Elbrus and Kazbek are located. In the south is the Transcaucasian Highlands, and in the north and northeast is the Lesser Caucasus. Scientists argue that the Caucasus has not always been like this, and therefore will change in the future.

Its formation was a series of real natural disasters. Over the long centuries of slow changes followed by monstrous eruptions and catastrophic events. It is believed that the formation of the Caucasus Mountains began in the second half of the Paleozoic. Then the so-called Russian platform collided with the mainland of Laurasia.

Earthquakes still remind us of volcanic activity. At the beginning of the current millennium, powerful earthquakes occurred, the intensity of which reached 7 points according to Richter. The catastrophic events of 1988 claimed the lives of 25 thousand people in Armenia.

Climate of the Caucasus Mountains

The climate of the Caucasus Mountains differs significantly between the highlands and foothills, and also varies by latitude. As the traveler gets closer to the sea and gains altitude, he will definitely feel the temperature drop. The northern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Range are usually colder than the southern ones, the difference in temperatures is approximately 3 degrees. A sharply continental climate reigns in the territories of the Lesser Caucasus.

Diverse climates create diverse landscapes

Precipitation is also unevenly distributed. There are significantly more of them in the west than in the east. Altitude distribution played a significant role in this regard. There is traditionally more precipitation in the mountains than in the lowlands. The driest regions are the northeastern and southern ones in the Lesser Caucasus. The driest part remains the northeastern sector of the Caspian lowland (no more than 250 millimeters per year). A lot falls in the western part of the Caucasus. In a year, a minimum of 1,000 millimeters can fall here, and a maximum of 4,000 millimeters. Moderate precipitation falls in the eastern and northern parts of the Caucasus Mountains (600–1,800 millimeters). The greatest amount of precipitation occurs in Meskheti and Adjara (approximately 4,000 millimeters per year).

Snowfalls often occur in the Caucasus. When climbing in winter, travelers should take into account that it will be easier to climb on the windward side of the slopes - the amount of precipitation is much less. However, powerful winds blow here. Snowfalls are rare in the Lesser Caucasus, since it is isolated and the surrounding slopes act as a natural barrier to air masses carrying moisture. At the same time, snow cover in the mountains can reach a height of 30 centimeters. But even more snow falls in the Greater Caucasus; avalanches occur constantly throughout the winter and even at the beginning of spring. Snow cover can reach 5 meters in height in some areas.

Natural areas of the Caucasus Mountains

The diversity of natural zones of the Caucasus Mountains and landscape directly depends on the heights and the presence of large bodies of water. Many biomes of great biological, tourist and recreational value are spotted everywhere. On the territory of the Caucasus there are both subtropical and high-mountain areas with their inherent alpine meadows and steppes. Alpine meadows and steppes are mainly found in the south. A forest belt is developed on the northern slopes. Moreover, if spruce and fir trees grow in the north-west, oak and hornbeam predominate in the strict direction to the north. Forests grow up to 3,000 meters. Next comes the permafrost zone. The southeastern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains are also rich in forests, with maple and beech joining hornbeam and oak. Even more amazing is the flora in the southwest, where mixed forests can be found.

Minerals of the Caucasus Mountains

The Caucasus is rich in mineral resources. Oil, gas, coal, non-metallic and non-metallic minerals are mined here. Caucasian Mineral Waters are known throughout Europe and Russia.

Coal deposits are not rich, the largest amount of them is concentrated on the territory of Georgia. Peat is widespread. The largest deposits are located in the Colchis Lowland. Peat is used for fuel and plays an important role in the chemical industry; paraffin, tar, ammonia, and wax are obtained from it. Among the ore minerals in the Caucasus, the most common are copper, zinc, cobalt, and tungsten. Gold, iron, and molybdenum are being mined. Iron ores are widespread and have been developed since the times of the USSR; the largest deposit is located in Azerbaijan. A special feature of the deposit is the possibility of mining ore with a high iron content (up to 45%).

Thanks to its beautiful nature, the Caucasus attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists

Manganese ores are no less widespread. The richest is the Chiatura deposit (Georgia). The Caucasus Mountains can truly surprise you in terms of reserves of non-metallic minerals. This is a real treasure trove containing such valuable raw materials as marls (a cement-forming mixture). Marls are processed at specialized plants; a particularly large amount of these non-metallic minerals is processed in Novosibirsk. It is in the Caucasus that the loam necessary for brick production is mined.

In addition, quartz sand, which lies deep underground, is mined here. Quartz has formed over millions of years into huge strata containing approximately 95% of the valuable non-metallic fossil. Roofing shales, which are clayey rocks, are widespread. They are used as a building material.

The Caucasus is rich in ornamental stones. Marble, obsidian, jasper, agates, amethyst, and marble onyx are mined here. The wealth of the Caucasus is known throughout the world. Recently, agates have gained wide popularity because they impart various mystical properties. Meanwhile, their color is truly captivating and confirms that nature is the best artist. Rock crystal is mined in the Greater Caucasus, but high-quality rock crystal is no longer sufficient for industrial scale, so its mining is gradually losing its importance.

History of exploration of the Caucasus Mountains

The territory of the Caucasus has attracted people since ancient times. There is information that confirms that back in the 6th century BC. The Greeks lived here and established their colonies. In the 1st century, the Roman Empire became interested in the Caucasus. The Romans invaded here, conquering the Greek colonies and began a confrontation with the Parthian state (present-day Iran). Seneca, Tacitus, and Pompey wrote about the Caucasus at different times. Gradually, the natural riches of these lands began to attract other kings, including Armenians. Ancient times are a thing of the past, and Byzantium replaced the former empires. The Byzantine emperors led the conquest of the North Caucasus, they were attracted by natural resources, many longed to see these territories annexed to the Byzantine kingdom. Centuries passed and only in the 18th century, when the rule of the Russian Empire was established in the Caucasus, a more substantive study of this amazing region began.

The beauty of the Caucasus Mountains

Significant contributions were made by figures from the Imperial and St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences. Among them are such researchers as P. Butkov and I. Blaramberg. Russian officers Fadeev, Dubrovin, and Tornau also visited the Caucasus. In their works they described in detail not only nature, but also the customs of the local population. Caucasian studies gradually began to develop, and local educators became of no small importance.

Flora of the Caucasus Mountains

The Caucasus is a region rich in nature. The flora of the region is incredibly diverse. There are over 6,000 plants in the Caucasus. This is an order of magnitude more than in the entire territory of the European part of the former USSR. The human influence here is nevertheless noticeably strong. This is confirmed by the Western and Middle Ciscaucasia, occupied by arable land.

The Caucasus is known for its relict broad-leaved forests growing in the Colchis Lowland region. Previously, the Colchis lowland was completely occupied by forest, but constant deforestation led to disastrous consequences. Only small areas of alder forests remained in the area of ​​the Kura Depression. In the area of ​​the Talysh Mountains there are also relict forests, which are classified as Hyrcanian or Talysh type. Many areas of both the Greater and Lesser Caucasus remain valuable grazing lands, attracting farmers from various surrounding states.

The Caucasus has alpine meadows with characteristic flora

Many plants were brought to the territory of the Caucasus from other countries. Now they have taken root well and are part of the natural areas of the Caucasus Mountains. The influence of semi-deserts remains; subtropical plants are common in the northern part.

Fauna of the Caucasus Mountains

Even more surprising is the fauna of the Caucasus, which is capable of demonstrating no less diversity than the flora. Animals that have become familiar to the Russian Plain are common in Western and Middle Ciscaucasia. Representatives of the fauna of the semi-deserts of Central Asia have spread to the Terek-Kuma Lowland. The main representatives of the Caucasian fauna live in forests and highlands, among them there are endemics listed in the Red Book. The most common animals are mountain goats and wild boars; wild bears are less common, and the Caucasian leopard is recognized as the rarest. In recent years, a decline in lynx numbers has been noted. Now there are no more Caspian tigers and Asiatic lions left. The European bison also became extinct. There is a great variety of arachnids (about 1,000 species of spiders). Birds are widespread, and the influence of the south can be seen here, as evidenced by the huge diversity of southern species. Representatives of the fauna of Asia Minor live in the mountain steppes. Unfortunately, anthropogenic activities have played a negative role on the animal world even in modern times. Therefore, several reserves with environmental status have now been established in the Caucasus.

The Caucasus Mountains are full of interesting facts:

1. For example, it was in the Caucasus that the famous kefir was invented, which is very popular in Russia.
2. The Caucasus Mountains have only two five-thousanders. These are Elbrus and Kazbek. Therefore, despite all the formidability, they are not considered the most difficult system to conquer.
3. There are over 2,000 glaciers on the territory of the Caucasus Mountains, their total area exceeds 1,400 square meters. km.
4. The Caucasus Mountains are one of the most populated mountain systems on the planet. Fifty different nationalities live here, many of them speaking several languages.
5. The area occupied by the Caucasus Mountains can cover the entire Tajikistan.
6. Here is one of the deepest caves on the planet - Krubera-Voronya. Its depth reaches 2196 meters.
7. The most common tree is pine.
8. Another natural attraction is the Zeygalan waterfall, which has a height of 600 meters. This is perhaps the highest waterfall in Russia.
9. The Caucasus Mountains are located on the territory of several countries, namely Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Abkhazia.
10. The Caucasus Mountains are an example of a natural barrier, while distinguishing climatic zones of subtropical and temperate types.

Natural objects of the Caucasus Mountains

There are many rivers in the Caucasus, all of them belong to the Caspian, Black and Azov seas. Most mountains are characterized by features inherent in mountains. They are distinguished by high flow speed, which makes them unfreeze during the onset of winter cold. Rivers and lakes are fed by melting glaciers and eternal snow. Regular rains also contribute. Sometimes this leads to significant floods that can last for six months. Floods occur especially often in the spring, when seasonal snow begins to melt. On the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, the flood lasts no more than 4 months. Rivers that are located in areas that do not have permanent snow cover are characterized by the presence of floods. They feed from rainfall, partly from rapidly melting snow.

There are many rivers and other bodies of water in the Caucasus

Groundwater also supplies rivers. Of all the rivers in the Caucasus Mountains, only three are navigable:

• Kura;
• Rioni;
• Kuban.

However, many rivers are necessary for farming. With their help, forests are floated and soils are irrigated. Some rivers are used for hydroelectric power.

Lakes have different origins. For example, in the highlands of the Greater Caucasus (Central and Western sectors), lakes of karst origin have become widespread. Karst lakes are located in the territories of the Front Range. Near the Colchis Lowland there are lakes that were formed due to the accumulative process. The largest lake here is Sevan, which is of great importance for the tourism sector. Each of the lakes of the Caucasus Mountains represents an entire ecosystem with picturesque landscapes and excellent tourism potential. Over the centuries, the lakes of the Caucasus have been praised by writers, artists, journalists, travelers and even politicians.

Speaking about the volcanoes of the Caucasus Mountains, it should be noted that they are usually divided into dormant and extinct. At the same time, active tectonic activity continues, which often threatens residents of nearby cities. Elbrus is traditionally considered the main volcano, although it last erupted 1,000 years ago. Hot mineral springs remind of its former glory; hot gases still burst out from the slopes of the peak.

That is why volcanologists are still paying close attention to the activity of Elbrus. Another famous volcano, Beshtau, is an order of magnitude lower than the formidable Elbrus. Its height is only 1,400 m, and it is also famous for its hot mineral springs. Volcanologists classify Beshtau as a failed volcano. During the lifting phase, it simply did not have time to form. No less famous is the Mashuk volcano, near which the great Russian writer M. Yu. Lermontov lived.

Caves and gorges occupy a special place in the Caucasus. Many historical events, legends and mysteries are associated with the gorges of the Caucasus. No less amazing are the numerous valleys of the Caucasus Mountains. On the territory of Dagestan you can see and visit gorges such as Rakhuni and Akhtychaya. In Ingushetia there are gorges that turn into works of art with the onset of winter. Waterfalls freeze, the moisture lying on the rocky slopes turns into ice and glistens beautifully in the sun. Dzheirakha is considered one of the most famous gorges. It was used for protection from enemies; now tower villages are still preserved there.

Caucasian tours are a local symbol

There are also many gorges in Chechnya that were used during military operations. The Argun Gorge is notorious, considered one of the longest in the Caucasus. Its approximate length is 120 km. The Chechens themselves consider the main thing to be the Ushkaloi towers, located in comparative proximity to the Argun Gorge. This attraction is inextricably linked with it for them. The towers, like the gorge itself, are open to the public.

The Stavropol Territory also has interesting gorges. For example, Berezovskoye, which is located near Kislovodsk. Birch trees grow here, and the valley itself is a picturesque area. Alas, the Berezovsky Gorge no longer has its former beauty - the detrimental influence of human activity has taken its toll. In the Alikonovsky Gorge you can see Honey Falls. The guides tell all travelers arriving here about the romantic legend of the castle of deceit and love. In Kabardino-Balkaria there is the Chegem Gorge, nicknamed the “city of the dead”. It will be especially interesting to those who are partial to archeology. There are graves preserved here from ancient times. The most popular remain the crypts of those who belonged to a noble family. In the same region is the Baksan Gorge, which still causes a lot of controversy among historians. Some argue that several peoples lived here in the past.

Finally, something should be said about the gorges of Karachay-Cherkessia. Here is the Mahar Gorge, which is considered one of the most pristine. People really rarely visited here, so the nature has been preserved almost untouched. In the Uchkulan Gorge there is a museum of ethnography, where you can listen to the history of the formation of the Karachay people. The valley of the Amanauz gorge acquired a mystical atmosphere. The rays of the sun rarely penetrate here, but the darkness only adds to its beauty.

Sights and tourism of the mountains

We can talk endlessly about tourism in the Caucasus Mountains. How much do mineral waters cost? They are considered one of the main riches of the entire Caucasus. Thanks to such resorts as Matsesta, Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk, the Caucasus became famous throughout Europe and Russia. All mineral springs can be divided into three groups. The first include hydrogen sulfide sources, which help treat rheumatism. The latter have been known since ancient times. These are Karmadon springs, located in the northwest of Kazbek peak. Hot springs heat up to 60°C. With their help, you can treat gastrointestinal, skin, and urological diseases. Now here is the Karmadon resort, where several comfortable holiday complexes have been built for travelers. The third group includes the most numerous sources containing carbon dioxide. Anyone who has heard of the Caucasus at least once knows them. These springs are called Narzan.

However, the Caucasus Mountains are known not only for their mineral waters. There are also many freshwater springs here, which also have healing powers. These mountains are known for the stunning beauty of their landscapes; you can appreciate them by going on one of the tours. This can be a jeep tour that allows you to look around the surroundings of different countries and look at ancient monasteries or a tour of local valleys, exploring the Elbrus region, fortifications or climbing one of the peaks.

It is impossible to ignore the Caucasus Nature Reserve, which has the status of a state natural reserve. This is the largest reserve of all that exists in the Caucasus. It affects several subjects of the Russian Federation at once, is located on the borders of two climatic zones, and is considered the largest mountain forest reserve in Europe. Covers an area of ​​over 280 thousand hectares. Most of it is concentrated in the Krasnodar Territory. UNESCO has recognized the Caucasus Nature Reserve as a biosphere reserve. Walking around the area, you can see a variety of animals. Turks, deer, martens, bears, wolves, foxes and many others live here. Sometimes you can see entire clusters of aurochs that flock together in flocks, which helps them avoid encounters with predators. These animals have become a symbol of the Caucasus Nature Reserve; their powerful horns serve as reliable protection and help in the fight. Caucasian Turs are excellent rock climbers, capable of reaching great heights.

Tourism is very popular here

Even more impressive are the mountain bison - powerful animals that also move in packs. It is very rare to find a bear in the Caucasus Mountains that is very different from the typical Russian bear in its coloring. The best time to visit the Caucasus Nature Reserve is from January to April. Summer and the period from September to October are also good.

The Caucasian Nature Reserve is well equipped. It has excellent infrastructure, so tourists come here from all over the world. It is one of the most famous nature reserves in all of Russia. There are visitor centers and museums here, and you can not only walk around the reserve on foot, but also use the services of horses. Horse riding is an honorable activity among Caucasians.

In addition to the Caucasus Nature Reserve, there are several other interesting protected areas in the mountains. These include the Teberda, North Ossetian, Kabardino-Balkarian, and Erzi reserves. Each of them has many years and even decades of history. Each has its own unique corners, so trying to cover all the reserves in one tour is pointless. It is better to try to study each separately. Now employees often resort to reducing the tourist area to reduce anthropogenic impact. However, this is necessary to preserve such important natural areas for the whole world.

Anything to add?

The expansion of ski resorts will cause irreparable damage to the Western Caucasus site, this conclusion is contained in the decision of the 42nd session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, held in Bahrain.

The draft decision of the 42nd session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee on the Western Caucasus site (42 COM 7B.80), according to experts from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), generally reflects the existing threats to its outstanding universal value. In particular, the Committee expressed serious concern about the transfer of land plots of the Sochi National Park and the Sochi Nature Reserve to companies associated with the Rosa Khutor ski resort for the purpose of its further development. One part of these sites is located directly on the border of the World Heritage Site, while the second goes far up the Mzymta River valley, effectively threatening the ecological integrity of this territory.

In addition, the Gazprom company plans to build ski infrastructure on the Grushevoy Ridge, a unique territory on the border of the site, which in 2008 was protected from the construction of Olympic facilities thanks to the personal intervention of Vladimir Putin.

WWF welcomes the Committee's appeal to the Russian Federation to prevent the construction of tourism infrastructure in specially protected natural areas (SPNA) due to the risk of negative impacts on the Western Caucasus World Heritage Site. The risk assessment must be carried out in accordance with the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It should be noted that for the first time, the decisions of the World Heritage Committee include not only the heritage site itself (the Caucasus Nature Reserve), but also the protected areas bordering it. Thus, it is recognized that the object is negatively impacted, among other things, by projects implemented outside the boundaries of the Caucasus Nature Reserve in the adjacent territories.

« Our concern about the extensive development of ski resorts in the Krasnaya Polyana area was finally noticed by the World Heritage Committee, as evidenced by the decision adopted as a result of the Commission,- speaks Igor Chestin, Director of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). - Without a doubt, the expansion of resorts will completely destroy the upper reaches of the Mzymta, where there are valuable habitats and a migration corridor for many species of animals, while the main part of the Caucasus Nature Reserve will gradually fragment, losing its significance. We expect that the Committee’s decisive position will become a barrier to further destruction of the unique ecosystems of the Russian Caucasus. The expansion of resorts is already taking place, while an assessment of what is happening has not yet been given. There is no up-to-date and scientifically based information on their impact on the environment either for projects already underway or for those planned.» .

WWF Russia \ Sergey Trepet

Gazprom and Rosa Khutor have repeatedly publicly demonstrated design solutions for the further expansion of their territories, including through the territory of the Caucasus Biosphere Reserve. De facto, the construction of resorts is already actively underway. In addition, the Ministry of Northern Caucasus Affairs recently announced plans for the construction of the Mineralnye Vody - Adler highway, which could pass through the territory of the Caucasus Nature Reserve. In this case, the Western Caucasus risks becoming almost completely cut off from the rest of this mountain system.

WWF Russia and Greenpeace Russia made a joint statement at the session that plans to build resorts and infrastructure on the territory of the Western Caucasus World Heritage Site, as well as in adjacent areas, threaten its outstanding global value. Environmentalists appealed to the members of the World Heritage Committee with a request to take the measures provided for by the World Heritage Convention and prevent the implementation of these projects.

WWF welcomes the adoption by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) of the document "Sport and Biodiversity guide", which regulates the work of the sports sector in the context of its impact on nature and assessment of its environmental potential, as well as the inclusion in the reports of several World Heritage sites ("Western Caucasus" in Russia , Pirin National Park in Bulgaria), which are under threat due to the construction of large sports facilities. The document was developed as part of an agreement between the IUCN and the International Olympic Committee aimed at preserving and restoring biodiversity in Olympic sites, as well as maintaining nature as a key factor in maintaining healthy lifestyles.

UNESCO World Heritage sites are sites created by nature or man that have cultural, historical or environmental significance for humanity. The Western Caucasus site was included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 1999. It includes the Caucasian State Reserve, the Bolshoi Thach Natural Park, the natural monuments “Buiny Ridge”, “Upper Reach of the Tsitsa River” and “Upper Reach of the Pshekha and Pshekhashkha Rivers”.

The length (GKH) in this section is about 440 km. The highest peak of the Western Caucasus is (4046 m).

To the east of the Kardyvach mountain cluster lies the state border of the Russian Federation: first with Abkhazia, and then with Georgia.

The adjacent territory is a border zone, which requires a pass to visit.

Districts Approximately half of the Western Caucasus (215 km) from Anapa to the Lagonaki Plateau is covered with forests. The belt of subalpine meadows appears here only on the tops of the highest mountains. In this part of the Western Caucasus in Goryachy Klyuch area

Children's (school) walking tours are often held. To the west of the railway, which crosses and connects Tuapse with the flat regions of the Krasnodar Territory, the peaks do not exceed 1000 m in height. The highest are Tkhab (921), Pochepsukha (910), Agoi (994).

Sources. 2014 .

Encyclopedia of tourists

See what “Western Caucasus” is in other dictionaries: Western Caucasus

- Western Caucasus. Dombay. Peak Belalakaya, 3861 m ... Wikipedia WESTERN CAUCASUS

See what “Western Caucasus” is in other dictionaries:- WESTERN CAUCASUS, part of the Greater Caucasus mountain system, west of Elbrus. Height up to 4046 m (Dombay Ulgen). In the axial part are the Main, or Vodorazdelny, and Bokovoy ridges. Glaciers. Cuestas are developed on the northern slope, karst on the southern slope... ... Russian history - part of the Greater Caucasus mountain system (See Greater Caucasus) to the west of the city of Elbrus. The highest point of Dombay is Ulgen (4046 m). In the axial part there are the Main or Vodorazdelny ridges (made of crystalline rocks) and Bokovoy (mainly made of sedimentary rocks... ...

See what “Western Caucasus” is in other dictionaries: Great Soviet Encyclopedia - Western Caucasus, part of the Greater Caucasus mountain system, west of Elbrus. Height up to 4046 m (Mount Dombay Ulgen). In the axial part there are the Main, or Vodorazdelny, and Bokovoy ridges. Glaciers. On the northern slope of Z.K., cuestas are developed, on ... ...