The height of Elbrus is such that this mountain is the largest not only in Russia, but also in Europe. It is considered an adornment of the Caucasian mountain system and the entire European part of the planet. Elbrus plays a huge role in shaping the climatic and geographical features of the region. In ancient legends, this mountain was considered the place of residence of the gods. Elbrus is a dormant volcano, which is being studied by scientists from all over the world.
This mountain is located on the border of two regions - Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria. It is unique in its structure. You won't find another beauty like this in the world. Elbrus has two peaks. The height of Elbrus, or rather, its eastern peak, is 5621 meters. But this is not the highest point. A little higher is the second peak, which has Mount Elbrus. Its height is 5642 meters.
Elbrus is a stratovolcano. Its layers were formed as a result of eruptions from ash, lava andtuff. This mountain showed the greatest activity for a long time, about 200 thousand years ago. Gradually eruptions became less frequent. The last of these happened about 2500 years ago. Now Elbrus is considered "sleeping". However, the long history of this mountain and all the changes that took place in its relief made it unique. It has a classic shape that no other volcano has. Cone-shaped peaks with ideal craters have not been destroyed and eroded. This magnificent picture is complemented by a beautiful cap of snow and ice falling from its peaks. It does not melt even in the summer. Therefore, it is called Little Antarctica.
The volcano lives its own life to this day. In its bowels there are hot masses. They influence many environmental factors. Elbrus nourishes and heats numerous springs that are healing. This water contains mineral s alts. They are saturated with carbon dioxide. In places where there are cracks, there is a smell of sulphurous gases.
Many springs, famous in different regions, originate in the bowels of the mountain. The great height of Elbrus makes it possible to subdivide this mountain into several climatic zones. The upper one always lies in the ice. The temperature here does not rise above zero. This is followed by a belt of eternal ice, the so-called firn basin. This is where glaciers form. In total there are 13 large glaciers and about 70 smaller ones. It is from here that the largest rivers of this region originate.
The height of Mount Elbrus, its conquest is the cherished dream of everyoneclimber. From the top there is a magnificent view of the entire mountain range. Elbrus itself in clear weather is visible even from the farthest outskirts of the region.
The area adjacent to this giant is unique in terms of flora and fauna. In addition, it has become a major tourist area, where all conditions for outdoor activities are provided. This is one of the main centers of mountaineering. The height of Elbrus has been conquered by many athletes. One of the largest geophysical laboratories is also located here, which allows making important scientific discoveries.
