Caucasus. Western, Central, Eastern
The Caucasus is a mountainous country located along the border of Europe and Asia within Russia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. The highest, axial part mountain system, stretching for 1100 km between the Black and Caspian seas in the northwest - southeast direction, is called the Greater Caucasus.
The Greater Caucasus Mountains are geologically young. Tectonic uplifts continue here, the relief is subject to intense destructive action of glaciers, rivers, and wind erosion. The tops of mountains made of hard rocks have the shape of peaks, towers, and pyramids. In soft rock areas there are peaks that are rounded or table-shaped, with flat tops and steep slopes. The profiles of river valleys are varied - from wide trough-shaped ones, carved out by ancient glaciers, to narrow, sometimes impassable canyons. The entire area is characterized by relatively high seismicity.
The Western Caucasus is part of the Greater Caucasus mountain system, located west of the meridional line passing through Mount Elbrus. The part of the Western Caucasus from Anapa to Mount Fisht is characterized by low-mountain and mid-mountain relief (the so-called North-Western Caucasus), further east to Elbrus the mountain system takes on a typical alpine appearance with numerous glaciers and high-mountain landforms.
In a narrower understanding, which is followed in mountaineering and tourism literature, only part of the Main Caucasus Range (MCR) from Mount Fisht to Elbrus is considered to be the Western Caucasus. Administratively, this region belongs to Karachay-Cherkessia (Russia), Krasnodar Territory (Russia) and the Republic of Abkhazia (Georgia). On the territory of the Western Caucasus there is the Caucasus Nature Reserve, which is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The core of the Western Caucasus mountain system is the GKH. The chain of massifs in the numerous northern spurs of the GKH, approximately 20 km from it, is called the Forward (Lateral) Ridge. Even further north, parallel to the GKH, stretches the Rocky Ridge. To the south of the GKH there are the Kodori, Abkhaz (Chkhalta), Bzyb and Gagra ranges.
The Western Caucasus is largely a forested mid-mountain region. The GKH line in the middle of the area reaches the forest border (2000-2200 m above sea level), near Mount Chugush (3240 m) it goes beyond 3000 m, and reaches its highest point in the eastern part (Mount Dombay-Yolgen - 4046 m).
A characteristic feature of the Western Caucasus is the combination of lush forests along the valleys and mountain slopes with pointed peaks and towering peaks covered with snow. Many glaciers here descend almost to the forest line. In stone bowls carved out by ancient glaciers there are many transparent blue and green lakes surrounded by flowering alpine meadows, mossy gloomy rocks and screes. Among them are the famous Lake Ritsa, high-mountain lakes Klukhorskoye, Kardyvach, Mtsra.
In the limestone massifs (Kodori, Bzyb, Gagra, Skalisty ridges) various shapes karst: deep chasms, underground rivers, caves, sinkholes, karras. On the southern slope there are many outlets of underground water: Gegsky waterfall, Mchisht, Blue Lake, Aapsta.
The rivers of the northern slope of the GKH belong to the Kuban basin, which starts from the Elbrus glaciers and in the upper reaches is called Uluukam. The largest of them are Uzunkol, Uchkulan, Daut, Teberda, Aksaut, Marukha, Zelenchuk, Bolshaya Laba, Malaya Laba. The main rivers of the southern slope are Nenskra, Kodor, Chkhalta, Bzyb, Mzymta. The water in the rivers is transparent and has a bluish or greenish tint.
From all the mountainous regions former USSR The Western Caucasus is distinguished by the greatest natural contrasts - from the glaciers of the Alpine highlands to the subtropics. The peculiarity of the climate is high humidity.
The Western Caucasus is the oldest and well-developed mountain tourism region. Both novice travelers and sports groups will find routes here. The simplest paths lie in the relatively low western part, starting from Arkhyz, where, both through the GKH and through its spurs, there are many passes of 1A and 1B difficulty categories (mostly scree and snow). This area in to the greatest extent Suitable for non-category travel and hikes of I-II difficulty categories.
For eastern section The GKH with adjacent spurs (Gwandra region) is characterized by passes of 1B and 2A difficulty categories of different types (snow, ice, rock). Here, as in Arkhyz, there are rich opportunities for hiking of medium (up to category III) complexity.
The main ridge in the Aksaut-Dombay area is relatively inaccessible. Most of the passes here belong to 2A-3A difficulty categories. The northern side of the passes is usually snowy and ice, the southern side is rocky. The southern slope is steep. The intersections of the GKH in this section can form the key elements of hikes of IV-V categories of difficulty.
There are roads along almost all the gorges of the Western Caucasus, and there is a bus service to a number of points (from Mineralnye Vody, Cherkessk, Karachaevsk, Zelenchukskaya, Sukhumi, Gudauta, Adler). There are trails to the upper valleys and pastures along the ridges.
In the mountains of the Western Caucasus there are many historical monuments of interest to tourists: Stone Age sites; in the meadows there are numerous traces of ancient shepherding - the remains of cats, paddocks, trails; along the ancient trade routes there are chains of ruins of medieval fortresses and temples, mainly from the Alanian period and the heyday of Apsilia; a number of places are associated with events Caucasian War(XIX century), the stay of prominent Russian cultural figures in the Caucasus, the passes of the Main Range keep evidence of the battles of the Great Patriotic War.
The western part of the Greater Caucasus in terms of the diversity of flora and fauna and their preservation has no equal not only in the Caucasus region, but also among other mountainous regions of Europe and Western Asia. This is the area where it is concentrated a large number of endangered rare, endemic and relict species of plants and animals. It is especially important that the little-changed habitat of the most vulnerable people has been preserved here. large mammals: bison, Caucasian red deer, Western Caucasian tur, chamois, Caucasian subspecies brown bear, wolf, etc.
The Caucasus Nature Reserve is practically the only habitat in the world for the mountain bison; outside this territory it is almost completely exterminated by poachers.
The area of the Western Caucasus, distinguished by its pronounced altitudinal zones (deciduous forests, coniferous forests, crooked forests, mountain meadows, nival belt), is recognized as one of the most extensive mountain forest reserves in Europe. Forests occupy at least 60% of the area here. These are beech, oak, maple, hornbeam, chestnut, fir, spruce and other species. In total, more than 3 thousand species are noted in the local flora, half of which are vascular plants, with every third of them defined as endemic, and every tenth as a relict of previous eras. About 250 species of birds have been recorded in the protected area, including rare predators nesting here - golden eagle, bearded vulture, osprey, griffon vulture, etc.
In general, more than 6 thousand species of plants and animals have been recorded in the Western Caucasus, which makes it a unique center of biodiversity not only on the scale of the Caucasus, but throughout Europe. At the same time, many species are recognized as rare and endangered and are listed in the Red Book of Russia, and some in the International Red Book.
Arkhyz
The village of Arkhyz is located in the southwestern part of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, 52 km south of the regional center - the village of Zelenchukskaya, with which it is connected by an asphalt road.
In recent times Soviet times this area was a real Mecca for mountain tourists and novice climbers. This was facilitated by such factors as easy accessibility in the transport sense, simple routes, beauty and diversity of landscapes. "Ariu kyz" translated from Karachay means a beautiful girl. To be even more precise - a gorge beautiful girls. There are several more approaches to deciphering this word. So, for example, on old maps the sources of the Bolshoy Zelenchuk River were called “Irkiz”, which is close to the Turkic names of rivers - Irgyz is in the Volga region and in Kazakhstan.
The village is located in a wide intermountain basin at an altitude of 1450-1500 meters. This place is called the Karachay Five Rivers, because here, from the cold waters of the mountain rivers Kizgych, Psysh, Sofia and Arkhyz, Bolshoy Zelenchuk with amazingly clear blue-green water is formed.
A small Karachay village founded here in 1922 was named “Old Dwelling,” but it did not catch on and a few years later the village began to be called Arkhyz. Later, this name was assigned to an entire mountainous region, which has now become a serious “rival” of such famous tourist centers as Teberda and Dombay.
The Arkhyz region is the northern slopes of the Main Caucasus Range. The region extends from the Laba River valley in the west to the Marukh mountain range in the east. From here it’s a stone’s throw to the Black Sea; in a straight line it’s 70 kilometers away.
From the south, above the Arkhyzoskalnaya wall, whitened with gray hair, rises the Main Caucasus Range. Its heights here reach almost four kilometers. The highest point of Arkhyz is Mount Psysh (3790 m). There is another beauty in this mountainous region - peak Sofia (3637 m).
All 60 glaciers of Arkhyz are located on the Main and Sofia ridges above 2700 meters.
The climate of Arkhyz is milder than in neighboring valleys. The Abishir-Akhuba ridge, having fenced off the upper part of the Bolshoy Zelenchuk valley from the north with a high (3000m) barrier, blocked access to cold winds there. The wide valley unfolded along the meridian is well illuminated by the sun (280 sunny days). Summer in Arkhyz is not hot. In the vicinity of the village, the average daily temperature in July and August is +15.3°C (up to +25°C during the day). Winter is mild and snowy. The average temperature in January is -5.4°C. Autumn is usually dry and warm until November.
The area is heavily dissected by a dense network of rivers and nameless streams. The main water artery is the high-water Bolshoi Zelenchuk, about 170 kilometers long (from the confluence of the Psysh and Arkhyz rivers to the confluence with the Kuban River). The most abundant tributary of the Bolshoi Zelenchuk is the Psysh with its tributaries: Sofia, Amanauz, Belaya, Kyzyl-Su, Koshevaya. The tributaries Rechepsta and Dukka flow into the Arkhyz River. The latter receives the waters of Malaya Dukka and Temir-Kulak. Malyi Kizgych, Bugoy-Chat, Chigordali and others flow into Kizgych.
The vegetation of the Arkhyz region is very diverse. There are more than 140 species of trees and shrubs. The Arkhyz forest is dominated by pine. Surprisingly slender and tall trees give everything around a stern and sedate appearance. In the upper reaches of Kizgych, a unique area of old fir forest has been preserved, which amazes with the power of giant trees and primeval beauty. Kizgych firs reach 60 meters in height, one and a half meters in girth, and their age is estimated at many centuries. Some specimens live up to 700 years. This area of forest is a remnant of those forests that dominated the North Caucasus in past centuries. The Arkhyz forest is a valuable gift of nature. Relict plants of the Tertiary period have been preserved here: Caucasian fir, spruce, yew, etc.
Undoubtedly, Arkhyz is one of the most interesting corners of nature in the Caucasus. But oddly enough, this wonderful mountainous area is still to some extent a “blank spot” for tourists, climbers and skiers.
Ak-Ayry pass
The Ak-Ayry pass has a difficulty category of 1B, the height of the pass is 3300 m, the character is snowy and rocky. The pass is located in the Sofia ridge northeast of the Nadezhda peak (the easternmost of the saddles) and connects the valleys of the Ak-Ayra (a tributary of the Sofia River) and Chuchkhur (a tributary of the Kizgych) rivers.
From the Glacier Farm tract in the Sofia Valley we cross over logs to the other side and begin to gain altitude. The slope is not very steep. After about 45 minutes of climbing, we reach the next clearing. The climb becomes more difficult. From a large open clearing you can see sheep's foreheads with Ak-Ayry waterfalls falling from them. The path begins on the right along the way; it goes around the sheep's foreheads on the right. First we cross a small tributary, then we gain about 100 m, ending up at the level of the waterfalls. The trail branches - the right path leads to the Stolichny (Bash-Jol) and Irkiz passes, the left path leads to the Ak-Ayry circus. Having climbed quite steeply for another fifty meters, the trail sharply goes to the left, traversing the slope along a shelf above the waterfalls. This is followed by a fairly long ascent along a dry riverbed, leading to the Spartak overnight camps - a green, flat clearing approximately 50 m in diameter. From here the trail leads to a scree and gets lost. The path is marked with tours. We rise, climbing onto the scree on the starboard side, and go out to the Ak-Aira circus.
Before takeoff, it is best to walk along the glacier - it is open and unbroken. The takeoff is flat at first (20° compacted stable very fine scree), then it becomes steeper, the scree becomes unstable. You should not climb head-on; it is better to go through the couloir to the right after about 100 m of ascent after increasing the steepness of the slope. We go out onto the rocks on the starboard side - it’s much safer and more convenient. We climb another 100 meters along the rocks. Then, on the last part of the takeoff, we have to return to the scree. Here it is very mobile, of a conglomerate type. We reach the saddle. The ascent takes approximately 3 hours. The descent is faster, but not easier, since it is the same scree, overlooking the snowfield and then onto the closed glacier. The glacier smoothly turns into a long and rather gentle snow tongue with a smooth slope along which you can move on a glider. Then for another half hour along the traverse path on the right along the grassy slope we reach the Green Lakes, where there are good sites for spending the night. Next, the descent is first along the banks of the lakes, then steeply along the bed of the stream or along it, then along the horizontal section of the valley along a path that constantly runs along the orographically right bank of the Chuchkhur River. At the end of the horizontal section on the right along the path, the path is blocked by a ridge-spur on the starboard side. The trail goes through it with a climb. After descending from the ridge, a zone of open forest begins, the steepness of the slope gradually increases. The trail gets lost at times; the general recommendation is to look for the trail on the right side of the clearings. The last section of the descent is very difficult. Having got out of the forest into the grassy thickets of the bank of the Kizgych-Bash River, we go downstream and ford the Chuchkhur River. We follow a very powerful path along the “Devil's Mill” tract and come out to the flood of the Kizgych River. Here you can ford early in the morning.
Poachers Pass
The Poachers Pass has a difficulty category of 1A, the height of the pass is 2890 m, the nature is scree. The pass is located in the Arkasara ridge and connects the valleys of the Dukka and Bolshaya Laba rivers. There is no direct descent to the Bolshaya Laba; the trail descends to its tributary - the Burnaya River.
From the Bolshaya Laba valley we climb along the path along the Burnaya River to the shepherds’ camp on the right bank of the river (2100 m), where it is possible to spend the night at the edge of the forest. The trail to Dukka Pass departs here. Further, a path leads to the sources of the Burnaya River, along which after 3 km we come to a transverse moraine ridge. Behind it is a plain that was the bottom of a glacial lake (2200 m). Higher up the valley branches into two gorges. The left one will lead to the Dorbun pass (1A) and to the Belaya River, to the Duritsky pass (1A) and to Amanauz; right - to the Vorontsov-Velyaminov glacier and Poachers Pass.
It is necessary to cross the plain with the river in order to get out into the gloomy gorge to the right of its source. At first there will be a steep climb to a rocky ledge overgrown with rhododendron. Below there is a stream beating in a narrow slot, above there are rocks with trails of scree. Ahead in the rocky massif two depressions are visible: the Poachers Pass (1A), and to the right - a circus with a glacier named after the famous Soviet astronomer who discovered it, corresponding member of the USSR Academy of Sciences B. A. Vorontsov-Velyaminov, and the Vorontsov-Velyaminov Pass (1B ).
The last section of the climb to the pass is the most difficult: the slope of the pass is steep (about 30°). First we go straight, crossing the snowfield, along a large unstable scree. Then the trail goes to the left up along a smaller, grass-covered “loose patch” and takes a traverse to the pass (another 2 hours). You can also go head-on if your health allows...
From the Poachers Pass (this name stuck since the time when poachers who hunted aurochs and bears entered the Amanauz gorge from the Bolshaya Laba through a “secret” pass) a completely unexpected picture opens up after passing through the green valleys. Sharp ridges pierce the sky, Przysz dominates everything. Glaciers, snowfields and ribbons of waterfalls hang from the rocky cliffs. Silent huge world. Without coming up here, you will not know about the existence of such Arkhyz. The views that unfold on the descent from the pass are among the most striking pictures of the Arkhyz highlands.
A short direct descent (within the confines of the pass) leads into a hollow with a lake carved out by an ancient glacier. A stream flows out of the lake, which immediately breaks off from the “sheep’s foreheads.” You need to go around the cliff to the left along gentle terraces past huge rocky gates through which one of the largest glaciers in the area slides - the Amanauz glacier. Above its snow fields you can see the saddle of the pass of the same name (2A). To the left in the ridge rises the Amanauz peak (3530 m).
The route passes significantly above the glacial tongue and the stream escaping from under it. The stream runs down a narrow canyon, the passage through which is quite dangerous. You can go down to the lake near the tongue of the Amanauz glacier along gently sloping ridges, snowfields and grassy rocks to the left of the lake, but the main trail along the left slope 1.5 km from the pass turns left and soon leads out over the spur. This is a great place for viewing (2650m). On areas covered with thick grass, you can sit comfortably and see the gorge of the Amanauz River from a thousand-meter height. Mount Przysz is visible from the base to the top (2 km vertically). The trail crosses a spur and descends into the adjacent side valley along a steep grassy slope. After the niche with the lake, you need to follow the drying up rocky bed of the watercourse. Below, among the subalpine tall grass, on the banks of a clear stream, you can pitch tents (height - 2350 m). They also descend here after passing the Duritsky Pass (1A). The descent into the Amanauz River gorge runs along the stream. At the place where it falls off the rocky ledge, you need to cross to the left bank and go to the pine trees. Then you should go around the rocks above the stream on the right. The descent to the bottom of the gorge ends along the ridge of an old moraine overgrown with crooked forest. Ahead, a fir forest turns black, behind it, in a light haze, stretches the wall of the Sofia Range.
There are 2 km left to Psysh. A good trail leads along the bank of the Amanauz River to Arkhyz (5-7 hours of walking).
Vorontsov-Velyaminov pass
The Vorontsov-Velyaminov pass has a difficulty category of 1B, the height of the pass is 3050 m, the nature is snow-talus. The pass is located in the spur of the Arkasar ridge and connects the Vorontsov-Velyaminov (Burnaya River, right tributary of the Bolshaya Laba) and Azimba (Azimba River, right tributary of the Bolshaya Laba) glaciers.
The path to the pass along the Burnaya River valley coincides with the route to the Poachers Pass.
The ascent to the Vorontsov-Velyaminov Pass from the Burnaya River valley takes place along a snowfield (steepness of about 25°), blocking the river along a rocky ridge; lunch and overnight stay are possible at the top of the rocky ridge. Then the ascent continues along a non-steep snowfield with moraine outcrops. On the last moraines you need to form bundles. The exit to the rock massif is made on the right in the direction of travel. At the top there are sites for overnight stays and water. Next, you should climb in bundles along a gentle (about 15°) slope to the pass. At the pass there are several equipped sites for overnight stays.
From the farm, located at the confluence of Dukka and Rechespa, you need to walk straight along the road for 4 km to the shepherd's hut. Here you can cross the river along the masonry. There is no further road; a path leads to the pass. From here it is a 2 hour walk to the pass. It does not have a saddle characteristic of passes and is a large alpine meadow located at the junction of the Abishir-Akhub and Arkasar ridges. On the right, near a lonely fir, there is an obelisk. Further the path leads through the meadow past the sheepfold and after 30 minutes leads to a descent into the valley of the Phiya River.
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"E longitude.
The Caucasus Mountains are divided into three sectors:
- West.
- Central.
- 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 tourism infrastructure, so people come here from different parts of Eurasia. 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 grows, then you can see the Forward Ridge, on which such famous peaks, like Elbrus and Kazbek. 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.
Varied climate creates 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. In the Lesser Caucasus, snowfalls are rare, 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
Diversity natural areas The Caucasus Mountains and landscape directly depend 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 surprising is vegetable world 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 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 widely distributed, 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 a real treasure trove, which contains 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 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. IN Lately Agates, which impart various mystical properties, have gained wide popularity. 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. Byzantine emperors led conquests 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 semi-desert fauna have spread to the Terek-Kuma Lowland Central Asia. 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 last years a decline in lynx numbers began to be 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:
- For example, it was in the Caucasus that the famous kefir was invented, which is very popular in Russia.
- 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.
- There are over 2,000 glaciers on the territory of the Caucasus Mountains, their total area exceeds 1,400 square meters. km.
- 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.
- The area occupied by the Caucasus Mountains can cover the entire Tajikistan.
- Here is one of the deepest caves on the planet - Krubera-Voronya. Its depth reaches 2196 meters.
- The most common tree is pine.
- Another natural attraction is the Zeygalan waterfall, which has a height of 600 meters. This is perhaps the highest waterfall in Russia.
- The Caucasus Mountains are located on the territory of several countries, namely Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Abkhazia.
- 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. ABOUT former glory reminiscent of hot mineral springs, hot gases still burst 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. The 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, which are located in comparative proximity to the Argun Gorge. This attraction is inextricably linked with him for them. The towers, like the gorge itself, are open to the public.
IN Stavropol region There are also 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 " 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 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 at once Russian Federation, is located on the boundaries of two climatic zones, 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 Tours are excellent climbers, capable of climbing high altitudes.
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; you can not only walk around the reserve on foot, but also use the services of horses. Horseback 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 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 Krasnodar region. 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 clean 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 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.
Draft decision of the 42nd session of the Committee world heritage UNESCO on the site “Western Caucasus” (42 COM 7B.80), according to experts from the World Fund wildlife(WWF) generally reflects 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 areas. natural areas(SPNA) due to the risk of negative impact 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. This acknowledges that Negative influence the object is affected, 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 at the end 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 demonstrated publicly design solutions for further expansion of their territories, including at the expense of the territory of the Caucasian 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 , National Park Pirin 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”.
