Geographic Description

Name

Infrastructure

Climbing history

Elbrus(Karach.-Balk. Mingi tau) - a mountain in the Caucasus, on the border of the republics of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia. Elbrus is located north of the Main Caucasian Range and is the highest peak Russia. Considering that the boundaries of the European part of the world are ambiguous, Elbrus is often also called the highest European mountain peak.

Geographic Description

Elbrus is a two-peak cone of a volcano. The western peak has a height of 5642 m, the Eastern one - 5621 m. They are separated by a saddle - 5200 m and are separated from each other by about 3 km. The last eruption dates back to 50 AD. e. ± 50 years.

According to the climbing classification, Elbrus is rated as 2A snow-ice, the passage of both peaks - 2B. There are other, more difficult routes, for example, Elbrus (W) along the NW ridge 3A.

Name

According to one version, the name Elbrus comes from the Iranian Aitibares - "high Mountain", more likely - the Iranian "sparkling, brilliant" (like Elburs in Iran). The Georgian name Yalbuz is from the Turkic yal - "storm" and buz - "ice". The Armenian Alberis is probably a phonetic variant of the Georgian name, but the possibility of a connection with the common Indo-European base, to which the toponym "Alps" goes back, is not ruled out.

Other names:

• Mingi tau - eternal mountain (Karachay-Balkar).
• Elburus - guide of the wind (Nogai).
• Ashartau - snowy mountain of aces (Kumyk).
• Jin-padishah - the king of mountain spirits (Turkic).
• Albar (Albors) - high; high mountain(Iranian).
• Yalbuz - mane of snow (Georgian).
• Oshkhamakho - mountain of happiness (Kabardian).
• Uryushglumos - mountain of the day.
• Kuskamaf is a mountain that brings happiness.
• Shat, Shat-mountain - the old Russian name (from Karach.-Balk. chat, chat- protrusion, hollow, that is "mountain with a hollow")

Gorges

Adylsu, Shkheldy, Adyrsu gorges, Donguz-Orun and Ushba massifs are very popular among climbers and mountain tourists. Elbrus - the most popular ski resort Russia.

Glaciers

The total area of ​​Elbrus glaciers is 134.5 km²; the most famous of them: Big and Small Azau, Terskol.

Infrastructure

It is mainly concentrated on the southern slopes, where the pendulum and chairlift are located. The lift height of the cable car is 3750 meters, there is a shelter "Barrels", which is more than ten six-seater insulated residential trailers and a kitchen. Currently, this is the main starting point for those climbing Elbrus. At an altitude of 4000 m, the highest mountain hotel "Shelter of the Eleven" is located, which burned down at the end of the 20th century, on the basis of the boiler room of which in given time a new building was rebuilt, also actively used by climbers. A number of residential 12-seater trailers and a kitchen have been installed. In the evenings, the work of a diesel generator is organized with the supply of electricity to the trailers. Pastukhov rocks are located at an altitude of 4600-4700 m. Above the Pastukhov rocks in winter there is an ice field. From a height of 5000 the so-called oblique shelf begins - a trail with a smooth climb. The standard route to the Western and Eastern peaks passes through the saddle. From the saddle, both peaks rise to a height of about 300 m.

Since 2007, work has been underway to build a rescue shelter on the saddle of the mountain (height 5300 m) ("Station EG 5300"). The shelter will be a hemisphere of a geodesic dome with a diameter of 6.7 m, installed on a gabion foundation. In 2008, a reconnaissance of the area was carried out, a base camp was prepared, and the design of a shelter began. In 2009, the structures of the dome were made, construction work began: gabions were erected by the expedition members, the elements of the dome were transported to the construction site (including using a helicopter). Completion of construction is planned for 2010.

On the north side, the infrastructure is poorly developed, and is represented by several huts on one of the moraines (at an altitude of about 3800 m), which are used by tourists and employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. As a rule, this point is used for climbing the Eastern peak, the path to which passes through the Lenz rocks (from 4600 to 5200 m), which serve as a good guide for all climbers.

Climbing history

In 1813, Russian academician V.K. Vishnevsky for the first time determined the height of Elbrus (5421 m).

The first successful ascent to one of the peaks of Elbrus was made in 1829 during an expedition led by General G. A. Emmanuel, head of the Caucasian fortified line. The expedition was of a scientific nature (the Elbrus expedition of the Russian Academy of Sciences was organized from Pyatigorsk, about which there is a record in Diana's grotto; see also Alpinism in pre-revolutionary Russia), its participants were: academician Adolf Kupfer - geophysicist, geologist, founder of the Main Physical Observatory in St. Petersburg , physicist Emily Lenz, zoologist Eduard Minetrier, founder of the Russian Entomological Society, botanist Karl Meyer, who later became an academician and director botanical garden Russian Academy of Sciences, artist-architect Joseph (Giuseppe–Marco) Bernardazzi, Hungarian scientist Janos Besse. The auxiliary service of Emmanuel's expedition consisted of 650 soldiers and 350 Cossacks of the line, as well as local guides.

Kupfer, Lenz, Meyer, Minetrier, Bernardazzi, 20 Cossacks and guides participated directly in the ascent. However, the lack of experience and the poor quality of climbing equipment forced most of the participants to turn back. Further ascent continued only four: Emily Lenz, Cossack Lysenkov and two people from the group of guides - Hilar Khachirov and Akhiya Sottaev. At an altitude of about 5300 m, due to lack of strength, Lenz and his two escorts were forced to stop. The first to climb the eastern peak at about 11 am on July 10, 1829 was the Karachay (according to other sources - Kabardian) guide Hilar Khachirov. This event was marked by a gun salute in the camp, where General Emmanuel watched the ascent through a powerful telescope.

At the location of the camp, a commemorative inscription was carved on one of the stones ( below and in Fig.), the location of which was lost over time. It was discovered by Soviet climbers already in the 20th century (accidentally, 103 years later - it was hidden under a centuries-old layer of lichens).

During the reign of the All-Russian Emperor Nicholas I, camped here from July 8 to 11, 1829, the Commander of the Caucasian Line, General of the Cavalry Georgy Emanuel; with him were his son, George, 14 years old, sent by the Russian government Academicians: Kupfer, Lenz, Menetrie and Meyer, also an Official of the Mining Corps Vansovich, Mineralnye Vody b Architect Jos. Bernardazzi and the Hungarian traveler Iv. Besse. Academicians and Bernardazzi, leaving the camp located 8,000 feet (i.e. 1,143 fathoms) above the sea surface, entered Elbrus on the 10th to 15,700 feet (2,243 fathoms), but only the Kabardian reached the top of it 16,330 feet (2,333 fathoms) Hilar. Let this humble stone pass on to posterity the names of those who were the first to pave the way to achieving Elbrus, which is now considered impregnable!

The first successful ascent to the western, the highest peak, was made in 1874 by a group of English climbers led by F. Grove and a Balkar guide A. Sottaev, a participant in the first ascent.

The first person to climb both peaks of Elbrus is the Russian military topographer A. V. Pastukhov. In 1890, accompanied by four Cossacks of the Khoper regiment, he climbed to its western peak, and six years later, in 1896, he conquered the eastern one. Also, Pastukhov for the first time compiled maps of the peaks of Elbrus.

In August 1974, three completely standard (without winches and traction control chains) UAZ-469 vehicles reached the glacier on Mount Elbrus at an altitude of 4000 meters during a test run.

Now Elbrus is very popular for climbing, both in mountaineering and mountain tourism.

Elbrus during the Great Patriotic War

Due to its symbolic significance as the highest point in Europe, Elbrus became the scene of a fierce confrontation during the Great Patriotic War, which was also attended by units of the German Edelweiss mountain rifle division. During the Battle for the Caucasus on August 21, 1942, after occupying the Krugozor and Shelter of Eleven mountain bases, the German Alpine riflemen managed to install German banners on the western peak of Elbrus. By the middle of the winter of 1942-1943, the Wehrmacht was driven off the slopes of Elbrus, and on February 13 and 17, 1943, Soviet climbers climbed the western and eastern peaks of Elbrus, respectively, where Soviet flags were hoisted.

Numerous photographs of Mount Elbrus can be found on most sites that provide travel services related to the organization of mountain climbing tours in the mountains and the conquest of new world-famous peaks. Elbrus is included in the list of 7 highest mountain peaks.

According to its geological structure, the mountain is a stratovolcano, so there is always a risk of magma eruption. Elbrus glaciers are an indispensable source fresh water for most rivers of the Caucasus and the South of the European part of Russia.

Elbrus is a mountain rich history, the existence of which was known to many peoples of the globe, living far beyond the borders of the Caucasian region. The stories about this mountain top can be found in Greek epics, as well as the legends of ancient Rome.

It is not possible to establish the exact nature of the origin of the name of the mountain. There are only theoretical assumptions that are supported or refuted by stratovolcano researchers.

Most scientists adhere to the version that the name of the mountain comes from the word of Persian origin - "Elburz".

Its literal translation sounds like "high mountain". The indigenous population of the Caucasian region calls the mountain peak Mingi-Tau, which in translation from the Karachay-Balkarian dialect means "eternal mountain". Among the peoples of the Turkic-speaking group, the mountain is called Dzhin-Padishah, which means “master of spirits”.

The mountain peak is located on the side of the Greater Caucasian Range. If we consider the system of mountains on the map, we can see that The stratovolcano is located at a distance of 10 km from the central line of the Caucasus Range. Elbrus is a natural border separating such republics of the Russian Federation as Karachay-Cherkessia, as well as Kabardino-Balkaria.

Elbrus is located at an altitude of 5642 meters above sea level and is the most high mountain in Russia and Europe

Myself mountain range is volcanic in nature. The diameter of the height of its base is 15 km.

The formation of Elbrus began in the Pliocene epoch. This is about 3 million years ago. From that moment on, the mountain top continued to grow until the Holocene period. All this time, increased volcanic activity was observed with frequent magma eruptions and seismic activity.

Based on the calculations of researchers, Elbrus was active volcano for 250 thousand years.

The height of Mount Elbrus

The photo is not able to fully convey the entire height of Mount Elbrus. To feel the greatness of this mountain peak, it is necessary as part of a tourist group to conquer it, to pass psychological and physical tests in the conditions of rarefied air.

The height of Elbrus is not uniform, therefore, the following peak elevations are distinguished depending on their location:

• 5642 m above sea level- this is the highest part of the mountain, located on its Western side (similar geological formations with a similar height are absent on the territory of the Russian Federation and Europe).
• 5621 m- The eastern peak of the mountain, to which a separate tourist route with built infrastructure has been laid.
• 5416 m- The saddle of the hill, which divides Elbrus into its Eastern and Western parts (visually resembles a mountain pass).

For physically unprepared people or those with chronic diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, the conquest of these peaks is almost impossible: in conditions of lack of oxygen, the climber's body begins to fail, develops acute pulmonary insufficiency, oxygen starvation, a change in consciousness.

The climate on the mountain

Elbrus is a mountain (the photo of the hill cannot fully convey its weather), the main influence on the formation climatic conditions which is provided by air masses circulating in a circle depending on the time of year. The area near the top of the mountain is characterized by frequent and abrupt weather changes.

There are heavy rains with increased cloudiness, the duration of which is from 5 to 7 days.

The summer season is always cool with high levels of humidity. At an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, the temperature reaches +35 degrees, and when rising to 3000 m it is already +25, but there may be lower temperatures depending on the movement of cyclones and anticyclones. At the end of August, calendar autumn already begins, which is accompanied by a sharp drop in daily temperatures.

At an altitude of 3000 m, the average temperature in January is -13 degrees Celsius.

The absolute minimum drop in air temperature is -27 degrees. The main cooling falls at the end of January - the beginning of February. The spring season on Elbrus starts from the 1st to the 10th of May. During this period, the snow is filled with excess moisture and avalanches come down at a level of 3000 m, which make the mountain dangerous for tourist visits.

At an altitude of 3000 - 5000 m, snow massifs and firn fields are preserved year-round, due to the presence of which, glaciers increase their total mass. At high altitudes, the process of loss of glacial and snow masses is completely absent.

This phenomenon is not affected weather mountain peak and the air temperature, which remains close to minus indicators all year round.

Volcanic activity

Elbrus is a mountain (the photo shows its shape) with a conical top. This is due to the fact that the geological elevation belongs to the category of stratovolcanoes, so its structure is formed from several magmatic layers. There are also rock alloys that have been destroyed under the influence of high temperatures.

Currently, Elbrus does not show volcanic activity, but despite this, there is always a risk of an eruption. Periodic ejections of molten rock mass are a typical manifestation for volcanoes of this type.

Scientists involved in the study of the volcanic activity of Elbrus have not yet noted the seismic danger of the formation of faults or the layering of tectonic plates that can cause an eruption of the mountain peak. It is believed that the last ejection of magma from the Elbrus crater occurred no later than 250 thousand years BC.

Therefore, the likelihood that the mountain peak will again acquire the same volcanic activity is minimal. In addition, given the height of the Elbrus peak, hot magma will cool almost immediately after being released into the earth's atmosphere.

Relief

Elbrus is a mountain (the photo of the East and West peaks of the summit shows that they are separated by the Elbrus Saddle), which has a kind of pass that can be used to communicate between the two hills. The distance between the mountain peaks is 1500 m.

The relief of Elbrus is distinguished by relatively gentle slopes, the average steepness of which is within 35 degrees. The maximum elevation of the basement is 3800 m. The relief of Elbrus was first studied in 1813 and described in detail by Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences V.K. Vishnevsky.

Flora and fauna

The fauna and flora of the mountain peak is concentrated at its base, which is called Elbrus. In order to preserve the flora and fauna of this part of the Caucasian region, September 22, 1986 was created national park whose territory is protected by law.

This is part of Elbrus, which is actually the beginning big mountain, is intended for the free development of local animal species, as well as the growth of trees, grasses and shrubs. Mountain climbing is allowed here hiking trips and outdoor recreation.

The fauna of the lowland part of Elbrus is over 63 species of mammals, at least 112 species of birds, 11 species of reptiles (mostly reptiles), 8 species representing the family of amphibians, 6 species of fish and countless varieties of insects, 15% of which have not yet been studied by science .

The most common are wild animals and birds of the following species:

• marten;
• wild cat;
• brown bear;
• steppe ferret;
• partridge;
• mole rat;
• roe;
• hamster;
• otter;
• black grouse;
• ular.

Thanks to human conservation activities in the Elbrus region, individuals of the aurochs have been preserved and multiplied. The livestock of these animals already has 4,600 individuals. In the mountain rivers of Elbrus, which originate from melted glaciers, live brook trout, which prefers exceptionally clear waters.

Flora of Elbrus is diverse flora and is represented by such coniferous tree species as spruce, pine, fir. Above 1500 m, alpine and subalpine meadows predominate. At lower altitudes, the flora of the mountain peak is formed by a mountain-type forest-steppe zone.

Occasionally there are small patches of shrubby light forests.

The following varieties of Elbrus flora are protected by the Red Book:

• all types of angiosperms;
• birch Radde;
• chickpeas are small;
• columnar quarry;
• wolfdog Baksan;
• dolomite bell.

In spring, more than 3,000 wild herbs bloom in the subalpine and alpine meadows of Elbrus. Their numerical population exceeds 50% of the total number of field plants growing on the territory of Kabardino-Balkaria.

The mountain peak of the Caucasus region is a witness to many exciting adventures and is fraught with many mysteries.

Here are some real life stories in which Elbrus played a key role:

• unlike other stratovolcanoes, this mountain has 2 peaks at the same time, the difference in elevations of which does not exceed 21 m;
• Elbrus was conquered for the first time in 1829, when there was no such modern equipment for mountaineering;
• each nationality of the Caucasus has its own name for a mountain peak and a legend of origin;
• on the slopes of this mountain, for the first time, a cable car was built, capable of delivering tourists to a height of 3750 m, which at the time of construction had no analogues in the world;
• Elbrus has almost a name - Elburs(high-mountain ridge on the territory of Iran, with which it is regularly confused);
• the highest mountain hotel in the world is located on the mountain;
• despite the fact that the volcano is among the active ones, its last eruption it was in the era of antiquity, which is already considered a geological phenomenon;
• in some parts of the mountain peak, the thickness of glaciers in permafrost conditions reaches 400 m or more;
• on the Eastern and Western peaks of Elbrus, the atmosphere is so transparent that looking at the horizon line, you can see 2 seas at once - these are the Black and Caspian;
• the mountain is officially recognized as one of the 7 wonders of the Russian Federation;
• In 1997, the Russian traveler Alexander Abramov converted his SUV and conquered the mountain peak of Elbrus on it.

The list above presents those interesting facts that are in the public domain and at one time made Elbrus famous throughout the Russian Federation and other countries of the world. Ordinary climbers and people visiting the mountain for tourism purposes can tell no less interesting and exciting facts about this mountain peak in a conversation.

Area attractions

Elbrus is a mountain (the photo shows that the territories surrounded by it are a mountainous area, the sights of which are directly connected with

Elbrus, which includes the following places of interest for tourists:

Location	Sight
Tereskol	A village in the Elbrus region, the population of which is distinguished by its ethnic color and hospitality
Baksan Gorge	More than 200 thousand tourists visit it annually
Mount Cheget	Active tourism center in summer and ski resort in winter (altitude 3769 m above sea level)
Baksan river	Forms the Terek freshwater basin
Cafe Ai	Establishment of catering, which is located at the foot of the mountain
cable car	Capable of simultaneously delivering 750 people
Seven	Glacier on the mountain slope of Elbrus, which got its name because of the similarity with this figure
Narzanov	Picturesque valley, which consists of a mountain river and alpine meadows

At the foot of Elbrus, you can look at the monument to the first pioneers and conquerors of the mountain peak. Some tourists note that monumental sculptures inspire them and add vitality and self-confidence.

First summit climb

The expedition of the Russian Academy of Sciences included the following scientists and travelers:

• Georgy Emmanuel (general of the tsarist army and leader of the campaign);
• Joseph Bernardation;
• Edward Minetrier;
• Carl Meyer;
• Adolf Kupfer.
• Janos Besse.

For the first time, the expedition members conducted research on the mountain at an altitude of over 3000 m. In addition, Joseph Bernardation, being on the peak of Elbrus, made several drawings of the mountain in order to capture all the landscapes of its slopes that open from the top.

Brief history of ascents

After the first successful trip to the mountain peak, the following domestic and foreign climbers managed to climb Elbrus:

• in 1890 and 1896 - Andrey Pastukhov was able to conquer the mountain twice;
• in 1891, the Germans Ludwig Purcheller, two local residents as guides, and Gottfried Merzbacher;
• in 1910 - the Swiss de Rami and Gugi, were able to climb the Eastern and Western parts of the mountain;
• in 1925 - Elbrus was first conquered by a woman climber, who became A. Dzhaparidze;
• in 1934, climbers from the USSR Gusev and Korzunov climbed the peak of the mountain for the first time in the winter season.

Climbing a mountain peak 80-100 years ago was a more difficult task than the challenges that climbers face today. The pioneers of the mountain did not have such modern equipment, maps, satellite navigation, radio communications in case of worsening weather conditions or emergency situations.

The danger of Elbrus

Any mountain peak with a height of 3000 m or more carries a potential threat to people, flora and fauna located in its surrounding territory.

To date, the following dangers of Elbrus are distinguished:

• the possibility of an eruption;
• occurrence of seismic activity;
• avalanches;
• rapid destruction of glaciers;
• stone heaps.

The indigenous people never built their houses too close to the foot of the mountain, so as not to endanger your life and loved ones. Tourists who go hiking in the mountains or decide to conquer its peak should always be aware of these threats.

How is the ascent, routes

The best option for climbing Elbrus is being part of a climbing expedition led by a guide who acts as a tour guide, safety instructor and guide. The most popular tourist destinations are:

Classic route

It originates from the Bochka shelter, located at an altitude of 3720 m, and then along an almost straight path goes to the Eastern peak of Elbrus. Along the way, there will be other camps and shelters created for the safety and recreation of climbers.

Which route to choose for beginners who are going to conquer Elbrus can be found in this story:

The average duration of the ascent is from 7 to 10 days. Weather conditions play an important role, the reaction of the body of a tourist to liquefied air. Athletes with excellent physical fitness and practical mountaineering experience overcome this route 3-4 times faster.

East ridge route

If we consider this direction on a scale of complexity, then it has the designation 2B. The hike begins near the base camp-village of Elbrus, passes along the bottom of the Irikchat depression. It will be necessary to pass through a mountain pass, overcome a glacier that stretches along the entire length of the eastern ridge.

After reaching the Achkeryakol lava flow, the group takes a vertical direction and moves straight to the mountain peak.

Other routes

An alternative route is to climb both peaks of the mountain at the same time. It has the name Elbrus Cross. It belongs to more difficult tourist destinations, since within the framework of one trip the expedition actually conquers the stratovolcano twice.

Other routes that do not run through the standard climbing paths can only be used by experienced athletes.

Infrastructure

The territory around Elbrus, as well as sections of climbing trails, are equipped with shelters, parking lots, cafes and other conditions that allow organizing leisure in high altitude conditions.

Alpine shelters

The first shelter of this type was built in 1909. at the level of 3200 m by members of the Caucasian society. It looked like a dugout, which was covered with stones on top. No more than 5 people could be in it at the same time. Today, modern and comfortable shelters operate on the territory of the mountain, being in which the climber feels safe.

Namely:

• Shelter of eleven;
• Saddle;
• weather station Shelter of nine;
• Barrels;
• EG Station

In addition, along the route of climbing routes there are periodically insulated wagons, in which you can also warm up, wait out a blizzard or provide first aid to the victim in case of injury.

Cableways

The development of the cable communication of Elbrus and the territory of its foot originates in 1969. At that time, the first cable car was built, which delivered tourists along the route Azau - Krugozor. Max Height, which lifts could climb - 3000 m.

With the development of mountaineering and mountain tourism, the following cable cars were built:

• Krugozor - Mir station - the end point of the line was at an altitude of 3500 m, and the date of completion of construction is 1976;
• station Mir - Gara-Bashi - an improved and safer type of chairlift, which was put into operation in 1979 and could deliver people to a height of 3780 m.

In 2015, on Mount Elbrus, all of these lines underwent a comprehensive modernization, during which the component parts of the lifts, nodal connections and assemblies, cabins were replaced. Photos of the updated line were replicated in the media and on tourism websites.

The cable car has received new technical capabilities, allowing to transport 3-4 times more people than it was in the late 70s.

At one time, each of the lines can deliver 750 tourists to their final destination. In the future, it is planned to carry out additional technical measures that will allow the installation of the final arrival station on the Eastern peak of Elbrus.

Article formatting: E. Chaikina

Useful video about Elbrus

Video about what clothes to climb Elbrus:

Elbrus is a mountain that really knows how to fascinate, both climbers seeking to conquer the next peak, and the most ordinary travelers who annually come to its foot to feel all the power and strength of the stone peak. And of course, no one is disappointed.

This article will tell not only about the mountains in which Elbrus is located, but will also acquaint readers with its features, secret name, myths and legends.

Section 1. General description of a geographical feature

Elbrus is a mountain that is rightfully considered highest point Russian Federation, located in the northern part on the border of Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria.

Due to the fact that the exact border between Europe and Asia has not yet been established, sometimes the mountain is equated with the highest European mountain peak and is referred to as the “Seven Peaks”. Perhaps some time will pass and geographers will finally resolve this dispute, but so far it is known for certain that Elbrus is a mountain that is a so-called two-peak stratovolcano. Its cone-shaped peaks were formed on an ancient volcanic base, and from a geological point of view, both peaks are completely independent volcanoes, each of which has a classical shape and a clearly defined crater.

Caucasus Mountains… Elbrus… These places are actually famous for their ancient history. Few people know that age is determined by the state of the upper part, which, for example, highest peak Russia is destroyed by a vertical fault. It was also possible to establish the date of the last eruption: it happened around the 50s AD. e.

Section 2. The mystery of the name of the peak

Perhaps, the question of where Mount Elbrus is located, albeit a little thoughtful, will be answered by an ordinary average student, but few know about the etymology of the name.

In general, it should be noted that this peak has several names at once. In total, there are more than a dozen of them.

Today it is quite difficult to determine which of the names appeared earlier and which later. The modern name of this mountain, according to one version, comes from the Iranian "Aitibares", which in translation into Russian means "high mountain" or "brilliant" (a variant from the Zend language). In Karachay-Balkar, the peak is called “Mingi-tau”, which is translated into Russian as “a mountain of thousands”. However, there are Balkars who call it a little differently - "Minge-tau", which means "mountain saddled". Modern representatives of this nation still say "Elbrus-tau" - "a mountain around which the wind is spinning."

Among the many names of the stratovolcano, the name “Jinpadishah” is also distinguished, which in translation from Turkic sounds like “master of spirits”, “Orfi-tub” (Abkhazian) - “mountain of the blessed”, or “Yal-Buz” (Georgian) - “snowy mane".

Section 3. What is the height of Mount Elbrus?

Perhaps, this question at least once in a lifetime interested many inquisitive people. But the answer is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Why? It's all about the features of its structure.

As noted above, Elbrus is a mountain consisting of two cone-shaped peaks. The height of the western one is 5642 meters, and the eastern one is 5621 meters. The saddle separating them rises above the surface by 5300 meters, and the distance from each other is about 3000 meters.

For the first time, the size of Elbrus was determined by the Russian academician V.K. Vishnevsky in 1813.

Recall that today the highest peak in the world is considered (Chomolungma), the height of which is 8848 meters, in comparison with which our mountain peak looks tiny.

Section 4. Severity of the local climate

Mount Elbrus ... Climbing to its top is often a dream for both experienced climbers and beginners. However, this cannot be done at any time. The most favorable is the summer period, July-August.

At this time, the weather is most stable and safer to visit such heights. The air temperature in summer rarely drops below -9 °C, although when it rises, it may well drop to -30 °C.

From October to April in these places there is a severe and cold winter. In the cold season, visiting the peak is almost impossible, and climbing it is tantamount to suicide.

Section 5. Volcanic activity

Elbrus is amazing and unique. The description of the mountain takes too much time, because each time more and more interesting features are discovered.

In this article, we will touch on only the most obscure ones. Geological studies of this extinct volcano have shown the presence of layers containing volcanic ash, which was formed as a result of ancient eruptions. According to the first layer, scientists proved that the very first eruption of Elbrus occurred about 45 thousand years ago. The second layer was formed after Kazbek. It happened about 40 thousand years ago.

It is now known for certain that it was after this second, most powerful even by modern standards, eruption that the Neanderthals who settled in local caves left these lands and went in search of more favorable conditions for life.

The most recent eruption of the Elbrus volcano occurred about 2000 years ago (50s AD).

Section 6. Legends of Elbrus

In general, the mountains of the Caucasus, Elbrus in particular, are shrouded in many of the most amazing and mysterious legends and myths.

One of these tales tells that in ancient times there lived a father and son - Kazbek and Elbrus. Both of them fell in love with one beautiful girl, whose name was Mashuk. Only the girl could not make a choice between two glorious heroes. For a long time, father and son competed, not wanting to give in to each other, and a deadly duel ensued between them. They fought until Elbrus defeated his father. But, realizing his terrible deed, the son turned gray with grief. He no longer wanted love, obtained at the cost of the life of a loved one, and Elbrus turned away from the beautiful Mashuk, a little later stabbing himself with the same dagger that killed his father.

The beautiful Mashuk wept for a long time and bitterly over the knights and said that there were no such heroes on the whole earth, and that it was hard for her to live in this world without seeing them.

God heard her moaning, and turned Kazbek and Elbrus into high mountains, more beautiful and higher than which there is no more in the Caucasus. He turned the beautiful Mashuk into a smaller mountain. And now, from century to century, day after day, a stone girl stands and looks at the mighty peaks, without deciding which of the two heroes is closer and dearer to her stone heart ...

Section 7. History of great conquests

In 1829, led by the head of the scientific expedition Georgy Emmanuel, the first ascent of Elbrus was made. The members of this expedition were mainly representatives of the scientific community: physicists, botanists, zoologists, geologists, etc. They conquered the eastern part of Elbrus and went down in history as the discoverers of one of the largest peaks of our planet Earth.

Kilar Khachirov, the guide, was the first to climb Elbrus. A few years later, the higher peak of this mountain, the western one, was also conquered. An expedition organized by English climbers, led by Florence Grove, made a trip to the western part of Elbrus in 1874. The very first person who climbed to its top was also a guide, this is a Balkar, Akhii Sottaev, a member of the first expedition.

Later, a man appeared who managed to conquer both peaks of Elbrus. It was the Russian topographer A. V. Pastukhov. In 1890 he was able to climb the western peak, and in 1896 - the eastern one. The same person made detailed maps Elbrus.

It should be noted that until now the stratovolcano is the most popular mountain among climbers from all over the world. To climb to its summit, climbers spend on average about one week.

But nowadays you can use the cable car, which greatly facilitates the journey and saves time.

At an altitude of about 3750 m there is a shelter "Barrels", from where the ascent to Elbrus usually begins. This shelter has six-seater insulated barrel-shaped trailers and a specially equipped kitchen. At the level of 4100 meters is the highest mountain hotel in the world - "Shelter of Eleven".

Section 8. Stone mushrooms on Elbrus

Elbrus is a mountain that can captivate travelers with its natural features, for example, unique rock formations called Stone Mushrooms.

Until now, no one knows why these stones were popularly called mushrooms, and nowhere else in the Caucasus such sculptures are seen anymore. On a small flat area (250 x 100 m) a couple of dozens of such “mushrooms” are picturesquely scattered. In many of them you can see the recesses.

Perhaps our ancestors used them for some religious purposes. Particularly impressive are the stones that resemble a face looking up. Many believe that this is a place with very strong positive energy, and even the weather here is very anomalous.

Section 9. Elbrus Defense Museum

The Defense Museum is the highest museum in the world. It is located at an altitude of 3500 meters from sea level.

The uniqueness of the exposition also lies in the fact that it is not limited only to the building, but continues in the surrounding area.

This institution has been operating since January 1, 1972. Its development and the preservation of the collections are always monitored by a researcher and two employees.

The collection contains more than 270 items. It should be noted that during the Second World War, the most high-altitude front was located in the Elbrus region. In these places, fierce battles were fought for which the Nazis tried to capture in order to get to the Transcaucasus.

Photo-documentary materials of these events have been kept in this museum for many years. The Elbrus Defense Museum is an organization of regional subordination, in which cultural and mass work is carried out.

Section 10. Interesting facts about the mountain

• In 1956, in honor of the 400th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria, a group of 400 climbers were able to climb Mount Elbrus at the same time.
• In 1998, the building of the Shelter of Eleven Hotel burned down in a fire. Today, on the site of the old wooden building, local authorities are building a new one.
• In 1991, Shelter of Eleven's toilet was named the worst toilet in the world by Outside Magazine. This is not surprising, given the fact that thousands of mountain tourists and climbers from all over the world have used this place for certain purposes for years.
• Elbrus is rightfully considered one of the most dangerous peaks in the world. When climbing a mountain, accidents are very common. In 2004 alone, 48 extreme skiers and climbers died.
• In 1997, for the first time, a specially equipped and modified Land Rover was able to climb Elbrus. The person who drove this car is the Russian traveler A. Abramov.
• Mount Elbrus is one of the "Seven Peaks", in addition to it, the list includes: Aconcagua in South America, Chomolungma in Asia, McKinley in North America, Vinson Massif in Antarctica, Kilimanjaro in Africa, Punchak and Jaya in Oceania and Australia.
• There are also 22 glaciers on Elbrus, in which three Baksan and Malka originate.
• Sometimes, from the top of Elbrus, climbers can see the Black and Caspian Sea. It depends on the air pressure and temperature, due to which the viewing radius increases significantly.
• In 2008, Mount Elbrus was recognized as one of the

Elbrus is a mountain in the Caucasus, on the border of the republics of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia, located north of the Main Caucasian Range and is the highest peak in Russia and Europe.

Other names of Elbrus: Mingi-Tau - the eternal mountain (Karachay-Balkar). Oshkhamakho - mountain of happiness (Adyghe). Jin-padishah - the king of mountain spirits (Turkic). Albar (Albors) - high; high mountain (Iranian). Yal-Buz - mane of snow (Georgian). Uryushglumos - mountain of the day. Piece-maf - a mountain that brings happiness. Shat, Shat-mountain - "covered with snow" (Russian). Ash-gamakho - "sacred height" (Circassian). Uro-hokh - "white mountain" (Ossetian). Styr-hokh - "big, high mountain" (Ossetian).
Elbrus is a two-peak cone of an extinct volcano. The western peak has a height of 5642 m, the Eastern one - 5621 m. They are separated by a saddle - 5200 m and are separated from each other by about 3 km. The total area of ​​Elbrus glaciers is 134.5 km2; the most famous of them: Big and Small Azau, Terskol. According to the climbing classification, Elbrus is rated as 2A snow-ice, the passage of both peaks - 2B.

On the slopes of Elbrus there is a pendulum and chairlift leading to a height of 3750 meters, where the Barrels shelter is located, which consists of twelve six-seater insulated residential trailers and a kitchen. Currently, this is the main starting point for those climbing to the top of the mountain. At an altitude of 4100 m, the highest mountain hotel "Shelter of the 11" is located, which burned down at the end of the 20th century, on the basis of the boiler room of which a new building has now been rebuilt, also actively used by climbers.

Eastern summit of Elbrus from Shelter of Eleven (route 2A).

From the village of Terskol, ascent along the road on the left bank of the Terskol River. The road almost immediately passes to the left side of the South-Eastern spur of the Elbrus massif in the Azau gorge and gradually rises to the “95th picket”, then to the “105th picket” and further to the Ice Base. The serpentines of the road in many places, starting from the transformer box near the village of Terskol, can be bypassed along the trails. From the village of Terskol 5 - 6 hours.

From the Ice base from the moraine descent to the glacier, then a steep ascent. Then go up the gentle snowy slope, gradually turning to the left, moving in a wide snowy hollow to a place where the steepness of the slope increases sharply (up to 30 - 35 °). Here, turn left and, having climbed a traverse on a snowy take-off, after 300-350 m go to a rocky ridge on which the Shelter of Eleven is located (to the left along the ascent path there are cracks). From the Ice base 1.5 - 2 hours. In summer, the path from the Ice Base to the Shelter of Eleven is usually marked with wooden stakes every 40-60 m.

At the Shelter of Eleven, it is advisable to spend a day of active acclimatization with access to the Pastukhov rocks.

From Shelter Eleven (exit at 1 am) climb straight up to the left of a heavily snow-covered rocky ridge, towards the Eastern peak, to the left side of small rocky outcrops called Pastukhov rocks. From the Pastukhov rocks 300 - 400-meter ascent straight up, then, gradually turning to the left, go to the traverse of the slope and traverse to the saddles under the slopes of the Eastern Peak. From the Shelter of Eleven to the saddle 5-6 hours.
On the left, under the slopes of the Western peak, at the beginning of a huge snow trough leading to the saddle, there is a hut. 250 - 300 m above the hut, turn off the saddle to the right and climb the shoulder rocks along the snowy slope with simple rock outcrops. From the shoulder along a wide horizontal plateau, access to the tour on the Eastern peak of the Elbrus massif - 5621 m. From the saddle 1 - 1.5 hours. Descent along the path of ascent to the Shelter of Eleven 3.5 - 4 hours. From the Shelter of Eleven to the village of Terskol 3 - 3.5 hours. The duration of the route is 3-4 days.

Western peak of Elbrus from Shelter of Eleven (route 2B).

The path from the village of Terskol from the saddle of Elbrus is described above.
80 - 100 m above the hut to the saddle, turn left and climb up and to the right along the steep snow-ice slope, crossing the slope, onto the rocks of the shoulder of the Western peak. From the shoulder along a wide plateau and simple snow-covered rocks, access to the Western peak of the Elbrus massif - 5633 m. From the saddle 1.5 - 2 hours.
Descent along the path of ascent to the Shelter of Eleven 3.5 - 4 hours. From the Shelter of Eleven to the village of Terskol 3 - 3.5 hours. The duration of the route is 3-4 days.

The western peak of Elbrus through the Western Shoulder (route 2B).

From the village of Terskol, climb first along the road, then along the path on the right side of the Azau gorge and after 4 hours exit to the starting bivouac to Stary Krugozor, located on the southernmost (Southeast) spur of the Elbrus massif. From Krugozor (exit at 2 - 3 am) turn left and along the moraine, and then go along the Small Azau glacier to a snowy plateau. On the plateau (closed cracks!), then go along a small gentle snowy slope to a rocky ridge to the right (to the north) of the Hotyutau pass and the Bezymyanny glacier descending into the Ullukam valley. From Staryi Krugozor 4 – 4.5 hours.

Here, turn right and go along the simple rocks of the ridge to a rocky ridge descending into the Ullukam valley, along the right bank of the transitional glacier. Cross this ridge by a traverse and along simple, in some places of medium difficulty, destroyed, snow-covered (cornices!) rocks of the ridge rising towards the Western Shoulder, go to the snowy ridge. On a sharp (cornices!), then a wide snowy ridge, climb the Western shoulder of the Elbrus massif. In a small snowy saddle to the right of the shoulder is a bivouac. From the Hotyutau pass 3-5 hours.

From the saddle ascent to the North-East along the snow fields with gradually increasing steepness, traverse to the left around the Western peak of Elbrus and exit under the North-Western rocky ridge of the Western peak. From here, along the simple rocks of the ridge or along the snow along the rocks, a steep ascent to the Western peak of the Elbrus massif. From the shoulder 5 - 6 hours.

Descent along the path of the ascent or through the saddle and the Shelter of Eleven. The duration of the route is 4 days.

First ascent of Elbrus

Elbrus was first mentioned in the "Book of Victories" by the Persian historian Sherif ad-Din Yazdi, who writes that the Central Asian conqueror Timur (Tamerlane) allegedly climbed Elbrus during successful military campaigns in Transcaucasia to pray. These and other data on the conquest of the giant of the Caucasus are available in the writings of some travelers, but they do not have solid historical evidence.

More reliable data about Elbrus are found in the reports of Russian ambassadors and scientists of the 18th century, when ties between Russia and Georgia began to develop.

The official date of the conquest of Elbrus is considered to be 1829, when an expedition was organized, led by the head of the Caucasian fortified line, General G. A. Emanuel. Since the expedition was of a scientific nature, the best forces of the Russian Academy of Sciences, headed by Academician Adolf Kupfer, a geophysicist, geologist, founder of the Main Physical Observatory in St. Petersburg, were involved in it. The expedition included the physicist Emilius Lenz, the zoologist Eduard Minetrier, the founder of the Russian Entomological Society, botanical research was entrusted to Karl Meyer, who later became an academician and director of the botanical garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The architect Joseph Bernardazzi was invited as an artist. In addition, the expedition was attended by the Hungarian scientist Janos Besse, who shortly before that interesting trips across a number of countries. Later, in 1838, based on the results of his travels, he published the book “Journey through the Crimea, the Caucasus, Georgia, Armenia, Asia Minor and Constantinople”, which still retains its cognitive and scientific value. The auxiliary service of Emanuel's expedition consisted of 650 soldiers and 350 Cossacks of the line.

The first part of the route from the Constantinogorsk fortress (present-day Pyatigorsk) to the fortification "Stone Bridge" (on Malka) passed without complications. On July 8, 1829, the travelers arrived at the Harbas River (a tributary of the Malka). From here they climbed to a height of about 2600m and camped near one of the mineral springs on the banks of the Kyzylsu River.

Before the start of the ascent, Emanuel gathered the Cossacks, Kabardians and Balkars who accompanied the expedition, and announced to them that whoever reaches the top of Elbrus will be awarded an award.
After a short rest and equipment check, the assault on Elbrus began, in which Kupfer, Lenz, Meyer, Minetrie, Bernardazzi and 20 Cossacks took part.
In his travel diary, Kupfer wrote about the beginning of the route:
“Although the valley behind us was obscured by fog, the weather was fine. The moon had reached the middle of the firmament, and the bright brilliance of its disk was a pleasant contrast to the blue of the sky, which was the color of indigo. The fog spread like a veil at our feet, but soon the rays of the sun tore it apart. The valley opened up to our blinded eyes, and a panorama of mountains unfolded before us, forming the first chain of the Caucasus ... "

Insignificant mountain climbing experience, poor quality of climbing equipment, low caloric content of food products made themselves felt. Elbrus was conquered at the cost of great effort. Further in Kupfer's diary we read:
“We moved either in a straight line, or in zigzags, despite the difficulties of the path. The haste with which we strove to reach the summit before the snow was softened by the sun exhausted our strength, and we finally had to stop to rest at almost every step. The rarefaction of the air is such that breathing is not able to restore lost strength. The blood is very worried. My lips burned, my eyes suffered from the dazzling brilliance of the sun, although, on the advice of the mountaineers, I blackened the face near the eyes with gunpowder. All my senses were dulled, my head was spinning. Finally, we decided to rest under a huge rock of black trachyte.”

Many participants showed signs of altitude sickness: nausea, dizziness, apathy, and therefore, after a short rest from a height of 4270m, they decided to go down.

Four people went to storm the summit: Emily Lents, Cossack Lysenkov and two people from the group of guides - Killar Khashirov and Akhiya Sottaev. From a height of 5350m, due to lack of strength, Lenz and the guides accompanying him were forced to descend. Climbing alone continued Killar Khashirov.

The expedition diary says this:
“The descent was very difficult and dangerous. The snow fell, holes formed under their feet, which made it possible to see the sinking abyss. Cossacks and highlanders tied themselves in pairs with ropes. During this wonderful day, Emanuel watched our movement with an excellent spotting scope. He noticed one man who was ahead of everyone and came out on a ridge of rocks that form the very top. Emanuel could no longer doubt that one of us had reached the summit."

The brave Kabardian Killar Khashirov at 11 am on July 10, 1829 was the first to set foot on the top of Elbrus, strengthened a pole on it, overlaid it with stones and, after a short rest, began to descend.
"When Killar reached the top, in honor of the conquest of Elbrus, a gun salute was given in the camp."
Giving an assessment of the actions of Killar Khashirov in the last hours of the assault and conquest of Elbrus, Kupfer noted that, being an experienced hunter, Killar skillfully used the morning cold, and when Lenz was at the place of his last stop, the conqueror of Elbrus was already returning from the newly conquered peak. And to the main base camp, where General Emanuel was, Killar arrived before the other participants.
In a solemn atmosphere, the ceremony of honoring the conqueror of Elbrus took place.

By order of the Academy of Sciences, two plates were made with the following text in Russian and Arabic:
“... He camped here from July 8 to July 11, 1829, the Commander of the Caucasian Line, General of the Cavalry Georgy Emanuel, with him were his son Georgy, 14 years old, sent by the Russian government. Architect Jos. Bernardazzi and the Hungarian traveler Yves. Besse.

Academicians and Bernardazzi, leaving the camp, located 8000 feet (i.e. 1143 fathoms) above the sea surface, ascended Elbrus on the 10th to 15,700 feet (2243 fathoms), the top of which 16330 feet (2333 fathoms) was reached only by the Kabardian Hillar .

Let this humble stone pass on to posterity the names of those who were the first to pave the way to reaching Elbrus, which is still considered impregnable!”

The texts were originally carved in stone, then cast in iron. The plates were supposed to be installed at the site of the main camp of the expedition at the foot of Elbrus. However, they were brought to Pyatigorsk and for more than 80 years they were at the entrance to an artificial cave, which General Emanuel built in his time as a sign of the conquest of Elbrus. Then they were transferred to one of the museums in Tbilisi. In Pyatigorsk, at the Podkumok foundry, copies of the plates about the immortal first ascent of Elbrus were cast by a resident of the village of Kuchmazukino (now the village old fortress, Baksansky district, Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic) Killar Khashirova.

In 1932 (that is, 103 years later), during a ski trip, the famous Soviet climbers V. Nikitin and V. Korzun discovered an inscription overgrown with moss on one of the rocks in the Irahiksyrt tract and, having cleaned it, they were able to read the barely noticeable words: “1829 July 8 to 11 camp under the command of the general of the cavalry Emanuel.

The news of the first ascent of Elbrus spread throughout many countries. However, no further measures were taken to develop mountaineering in Russia. At the same time from foreign countries several well-equipped expeditions arrive, which, as a rule, did not dare to storm Elbrus. And the few climbing attempts that were made ended in vain.

Elbrus chronicle

1813 Russian academician Vishnevsky for the first time determined the height of Elbrus (5421 m).
1829 The first to climb Elbrus is a Kabardian, a resident of the Baksan Gorge, Killar Khashirov, the guide of the expedition of General G. A. Emanuel.
1868 The conquest of the eastern peak of Elbrus by an English expedition led by Douglas Freshfield with a Balkar guide Ahiya Sottaev.
1874 Climbing Elbrus by British climbers led by F. Grove, author of the book "Cold Caucasus".
1875 Publication of the book "Geological research of the Main Caucasian Range" (with a map of Elbrus).
1884 Climbing Elbrus is made by a group of Hungarian climbers led by Moritz Deshi in 1889. The first completed traverse passed by Ungern-Sternberg from the western peak through the saddle to the north to the Malka valley.
1890-1896 A. V. Pastukhov, a Russian military topographer and climber, conquers the western and eastern peaks, initiating the study of Elbrus.
1891 Gottorrid Merzbacher and Ludwig Purtcheller with two guides conquered the western summit of Elbrus, covering the entire path from Terskol to the summit in the shortest time since the beginning of the development of Elbrus - 8 hours.
1907 Geologist V.V. Dubyansky began scientific geological research on Elbrus and in the Elbrus region.
1909 At an altitude of 3200m, the Caucasian Mountain Society built the first semi-dugout for five people. It was the first pre-revolutionary building on Elbrus.
1910 Swiss climbers Gugi and De-Rami conquer both peaks of Elbrus in one day.
1911 For the first time Elbrus was visited by 10 climbing groups, of which 4 were foreign.
1911 Climbing Elbrus by S. M. Kirov..
1914 The publication of the classic work on the geology of Elbrus "On the petrography of Elbrus". Author V. V. Dubyansky.
1925 Observations of the Elbrus glaciers began.
1925 The first Soviet ascent of Elbrus by 19 climbers led by G. N. Nikoladze.
1925 The first Soviet woman on Elbrus was A. Japaridze.
1927 The first ascent of N. V. Krylenko to Elbrus.

1928 During the year, 32 groups of Soviet climbers climbed Elbrus, while in previous years - from 1829 to 1927 - 56 groups visited there.
1928 The government commission examined the mineral springs of the Elbrus region in 1929. A wooden building for 40 people was built at Krugozor with funds from the Society for Proletarian Tourism and Excursions.
1931 Under the leadership of Professor V. A. Konopasevich, the first circular ski trip around the eastern peak of Elbrus was completed. Five participants from the saddle climbed to the top.
1932 At an altitude of 4200 m, a wooden building for 40 places for tourists and climbers was built - "Shelter of Eleven".
1932-1933 V. Korzun, V. Nikitin and S. Lysenko conduct winter meteorological observations at Krugozor.
1933 10 Moscow skiers for the first time skied up to the Shelter of Eleven, the descent was also carried out on skis.
1933 On the saddle of Elbrus, at an altitude of about 5300m, a high-altitude shelter "Saddle" was built for climbers.
1933 The planned training of mountaineering personnel in Tegenekli has begun.
1933 A meteorological station began to function at the "Shelter of the Nine", built by the Pyatigorsk Weather Bureau. Its first winterers were V. Korzun, A. Gusev, A. Gorbachev.

1934 V. Korzun and A. Gusev made the first winter ascent.
1934 The work of the First Integrated Elbrus Expedition of the USSR Academy of Sciences began.
1935 For the first time in one winter, N. Gusak and V. Kudinov climbed both peaks of Elbrus twice.
1935 The first winter ascent of Elbrus was made by students of the Ordzhonikidze Pedagogical Institute A. Arakelyan, A. Poltoradneva, M. Sveshnikova, Z. Rodkina, E. Chikhradze.
1935 A record of mass visits to Elbrus was set, 2016 climbers visited the summit in a year. Among them are 638 participants in the collective farm alpiniad of Kabardino-Balkaria in 1937. The first circular ski trip around the Elbrus massif was held at an altitude of 3000-4000 m.
1939 The first descent on skis from the top of Elbrus to the "Shelter of Eleven" was made by the Moscow slalomist V. Gippenreiter.
1939 A three-story hotel at the Shelter of Eleven began to operate.
1943 On February 13 and 17, a group of military climbers, participants in the defense of the Caucasus, climbed Elbrus and, dropping fascist standards, raised the State Flag of the USSR.
1946 In honor of the 25th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria, 40 athletes made the first post-war ascent of Elbrus.
1947 A. Maleinov, V. Gippenreiter, K. Spiridonov made a ski traverse of both peaks of Elbrus.

1950 The ARMS auto weather station is installed on the eastern peak.
1957-1958 On the slopes of Elbrus, great scientific work is being carried out under the program of the International Geophysical Year.
1960 year. 1395 athletes participated in the mass mountain climbing on Elbrus in honor of the 40th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria.
1963 The first chairlift in the Elbrus region to Mount Cheget was put into operation. Its length is 1600 m, elevation difference is 650 m.
1963 Master of Sports A. Berberashvili climbed Elbrus on a motorcycle.
1965 The high-mountain hotel "Itkol" has opened in the Elbrus region.

1966 The Mi-4 helicopter landed for the first time on the eastern peak of Elbrus (pilots Yu. Rakhmanov and M.Kh asanshin).
1966 The construction of the second stage of the chairlift on Mount Cheget - "Cheget-2" has been completed.
1967 A new Elbrus attendance record has been set. During the year, 3,224 people visited its peaks, including 2,536 people climbing in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Great October Socialist Revolution in one day
1968 The tourist hotel "Azau" began to function at an altitude of 2200 m.
1968 The eight-story tourist hotel "Terskol" of the USSR Ministry of Defense was put into operation.
1969 The cable-suspension road on Mount Cheget began to operate.
1969 The first rope-pendulum road from the Azau station to the Krugozor was built. Its length is 1900 m, elevation difference is 900 m.
1972 The Elbrus Medical Biological Station (EMBS) of the USSR Academy of Sciences began to function.
1974 The camp site "Cheget" was built.
1976 The cable car from st. "Krugozor" to the station. "World".
1982 Climbing in honor of the 60th anniversary of the formation of the USSR.
1983 Elbrusiada, dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Caucasus from fascist invaders and the hoisting of Soviet flags on Elbrus.

Elbrus map

Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe and Russia in particular. It is included in the catalog of the seven highest objects on the planet Earth. But this is not the only characteristic of this point in the Caucasus Mountains. It is a stratovolcano or, in other words, a layered volcano, which is formed by multi-layer hardening of lava, ash and tephra.

Such peaks are characterized great height and steep slopes. This is due to the properties of lava masses, which have a viscous and thick consistency. And eruptions from stratovolcanoes are explosive in nature, while the lava quickly solidifies and does not spread over the relief over long distances.

The height of Mount Elbrus

This volcano has two peaks with different heights. The western one is 5642 m, and the eastern one is a little lower - 5621 m. The distance between them is 3 km, and if measured along the mountainside - 5200 meters. On this saddle between the peaks of the volcano, the highest alpine shelter in Europe for climbers and mountain climbers was built. And there are more than enough people who want to climb to such a height, starting with the first ascent to the eastern peak on July 22, 1829 by Khilar Khachirov. This is a local guide, a resident of Kabardino-Balkaria, who knows these places well. The western peak was conquered somewhat later, in 1874, by the English climbers F. Grove, F. Gardner, H. Walker, P. Knubel and the local guide A. Sottaev. After that, thousands of people from all over the world try to climb to the height of Mount Elbrus, coming to the Elbrus region every year.

controversial issues

Often on the pages of the World Wide Web you can see controversial dialogues about Elbrus, where it is, in which country. The mountain is located on the border of several territorial units, although most of it is still on the territory of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, which occupies the northern slope of the Caucasus Mountains.

But the mountain itself is located at the junction of Kabardino-Balkaria and the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, its image is on the emblems of both of these regions. However, very close North Ossetia, and Georgia, and the Stavropol Territory. Therefore, in the Elbrus region there is a whole complex of resorts belonging to different republics of Russia and Georgia.

Also, disputes on the issue of Elbrus (where it is located, in which country) are also being conducted by geographers who cannot agree on a common opinion. Doubts are raised by assumptions that this volcano is located in Europe. Some argue that this is already the territory of Asia. The border between the continents runs just in the middle of the Main Caucasian Range.

mountain name

Depending on the location of Elbrus (where it is, in which country) local residents the volcano is also called differently. In Iran, it is called Aitibares, which means "sparkling or shining". This name is very consistent with the appearance of the peak, when the eternal snow reflects the bright sun.

In Georgia, they call the mountain Yalbuz, which means: yal - "storm", buz - "ice". It can be seen that the inhabitants of this country have repeatedly witnessed the raging elements on the slopes of the mountain.

The Armenian name is closely phonetically related to the Georgian version. Sounds like Alberis. Many believe that this name comes from the word Alps.

The name of the mountain, invented by the Alans, sounds very beautiful. These are residents of Karachay-Balkaria. "Mingi-Tau" is translated as "the eternal mountain of consciousness and wisdom."

The world-famous name of the volcano - Elbrus - also has a local origin. Consists of several words. "El" is translated as a settlement or nationality, but "bur" is a word familiar to Russian-speaking people, meaning to twist, turn back. The last particle of the word "mustache" is translated as temper, behavior.

Based on the meaning of the word Elbrus (where it is located, in which country, we found out), a name was invented, you can understand the nature and properties of this famous volcano, which in sunny weather reflects the sun's rays with a bright brilliance, in bad weather it threatens travelers with a strong snowstorm with freezing rain and snow spinning in the wind. Climbers who want to conquer the summit always remember the danger of such a hike.

Glaciers of the Caucasus Mountains

Elbrus last erupted over two thousand years ago. Since then, the temperature has always been very low at the top, which does not rise above 0 degrees even in the summer heat. The glaciers that cap the mountain cover 134.5 km, which is 10% of all such formations of the Caucasus Mountains. There are only 23 glaciers on Elbrus.

The largest and most famous are Big and Small Azau, Irik, Kokurtly, which occupy vast areas of valleys and slopes. But there are also very picturesque ice ones hanging from the cliffs. These are blocks of such glaciers as Kogutai, Terskol, Garabashi. Especially a lot eternal ice located on the northern slope of Mount Elbrus at an altitude of over 3850 meters.

The water formed after the melting and fall of these accumulations of ice fills the river flows of the mountain rivers of Stavropol, such as the Kuban, Malka and Baksan.

The climate on the mountain

The mountain range always has changeable weather. So in Kabardino-Balkaria, Elbrus is distinguished by the frequent change of good warm weather to bad, with precipitation and winds. This is due to the mountainous terrain, which forms the circulation of air masses by season.

Summer in the Elbrus region is cool, with high humidity. More than a week of good weather is not necessary to observe. The maximum thermometer showed + 35 degrees at an altitude of 2 km, even higher, at around 3 km, and even less, a maximum of + 25.

After this mark, winter weather begins in October. There is a lot of precipitation. The height of the snow cover on average reaches 50-80 cm. The higher to the top, the deeper the snow. More snow covers are located on the north side. Southern thickness of snow cannot boast.

Spring comes to the territory of Elbrus only at the beginning of May. The summit is covered with snow all year round. Due to them, the mass of ice in glaciers is constantly growing.

Winter lasts for a long time, and at an altitude of 3 km the temperature drops to -12 degrees, the lowest temperature recorded at this point was -27 degrees.

ski resort

The biggest ski resort"Elbrus Azau" was built in 1969 on the glade Azau, which is located at the foot of the majestic mountain. For the convenience of skiers, there are two cable cars: the old pendulum with 20-seater cabins and the new gondola, taking 8 people on board. Lift tickets can be purchased as a one-time or for the whole day. They also sell season tickets for the entire period of skiing (from 2 to 8 days). The cost also varies depending on the season. One ascent - 550 rubles, descent - 500. The most expensive subscription for 8 days will cost 12,700.

Ski slopes

There are 11 slopes on Elbrus for skiers of all levels: from beginners to professionals. The blue slopes are wider and gentler. The reds and blacks are for experienced riders, but they also fade into the blue, gentle slopes. A subscription to skiing from the mountain will cost from 500 to 850 rubles per day.

Perfectly organized holiday for children. For them there is a separate drag lift for 300 meters. An experienced instructor conducts classes with beginners, fun competitions and contests are often organized. There is a ski school where the child will be taught all the details of the correct and safe descent.

Infrastructure of the complexes

On the territory of the complex there are 38 hotels, cafes, restaurants, baths and saunas, ski equipment rental. There are shops and even a club. You can pay both in cash and by bank cards. Everything is done for the convenience of vacationers.

For conquerors of peaks there is an interesting complex called "Barrels". There, climbers can go through acclimatization, warm up, relax after a hard climb, have a snack and sleep.

It is located at an altitude of 3750 meters, at the end station of the Garabashi chairlift. Each "barrel" is designed for 6 people. There is everything you need: toiletries, bedding, warm blankets.

How to get there?

The best and closest way to the mountain is from Nalchik. There is an airport, so you can fly from different places. Further from the city to the Elbrus region, you can take a taxi or minibus number 17. Then you also need to go to Terskol by taxi.

On your car from Rostov-on-Don, you need to go along the M-4 highway, and before reaching Nalchik, turn onto A-158. The coordinates of Elbrus, which is described in the article, on the navigator are 43°18"56"N, 42°27"42"E.

Come any time of the year. Skiing is also possible in the middle of summer.