Elbrus is a mountain that actually knows how to fascinate, both climbers seeking to conquer the next peak, and the most ordinary travelers who come to its foot every year to feel all the power and strength of the stone peak. And of course no one gets disappointed.
This article will tell not only about which mountains Elbrus is located in, but will also acquaint readers with its features, the secret of its name, myths and legends.
Section 1. General description of the geographic object
Elbrus is a mountain that is rightfully considered the 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 has not yet been established between Europe and Asia, 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, which is a so-called two-peaked 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 well-defined crater.
Caucasus Mountains ... Elbrus ... These places are actually famous for their ancient history... Few people know that the age is determined by the state of the upper part, which, for example, at the highest peak of Russia, was destroyed by a vertical fault. It was also possible to establish the date of the last eruption: it happened approximately in the 50s of A.D. e.
Section 2. The secret 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 schoolboy, 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 means " high mountain"Or" shiny "(Zend variant). On the Karachai-Balkarian peak they call "Mingi-tau", which is translated into Russian as "a mountain of thousands." Nevertheless, there are Balkars who call it a little differently - "Minge-tau", which means "saddled mountain". Modern representatives of this ethnic group also say "Elbrus-tau" - "a mountain around which the wind revolves."
Among the many names of the stratovolcano, the name "Jinpadishah" is also distinguished, which in translation from the Turkic sounds like "lord of spirits", "Orfi-tub" (Abkhazian) - "mountain of the blessed", or "Yal-buz" (Georgian) - "snow mane".
Section 3. What is the height of Mount Elbrus?
Perhaps this question at least once in a lifetime interested many curious people. But the answer is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Why? It's all about the peculiarities 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 5,300 meters above the surface, and the distance from each other is about 3,000 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 its top is often dreamed of by both experienced climbers and beginners. However, this can by no means be done at any time. The most favorable period is considered to be the summer period, July-August.
At this time, the weather is the most stable and safer for visiting such heights. The air temperature in summer rarely drops below -9 ° C, although during the rise it may well drop to -30 ° C.
From October to April, there is a harsh and cold winter in these places. 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. It takes too long to describe the mountain, as more and more interesting features are discovered each time.
In this article, we will only touch on the least known 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 have 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.
Now it is known for certain that it was after this second, most powerful even by modern standards, eruptions, 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 fairy tales tells that in time immemorial there lived a father and a son - Kazbek and Elbrus. Both of them fell in love with one beautiful girl named Mashuk. Only that girl could not make a choice between two glorious heroes. For a long time, father and son competed, not wanting to yield 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 the love gained at the price of the life of a loved one, and Elbrus turned away from the beautiful Mashuk, a little later stabbing himself with the same dagger with which he had killed his father.
The beautiful Mashuk cried long and bitterly over the knights and said that there were no such heroes in the whole earth, and that it was hard for her to live in this world without seeing them.
The god heard her groaning, and turned Kazbek and Elbrus into high mountains, which are no more beautiful and higher in the Caucasus. He turned the beauty Mashuk into a smaller mountain. And now, from century to century, from day to 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 eastern part Elbrus and went down in history as the discoverers of one of the largest peaks of our planet Earth.
The first to climb Elbrus was Kilar Khachirov - the guide. A few years later, the higher peak of this mountain, the western one, was conquered. An expedition organized by English climbers led by Florence Grove made a trek to the western part of Elbrus in 1874. The very first person who climbed to its top was also a guide, this is a Balkarian, Akhii Sottaev was 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 - to the eastern one. The same person made detailed maps Elbrus.
It should be noted that the stratovolcano is still the most popular mountain among climbers from all over the world. To climb to its top, 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 "Bochki", 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 4,100 meters, there is the world's highest hotel, the Shelter of the 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 are popularly called mushrooms, and nowhere in the Caucasus are such sculptures observed anymore. On a small flat area (250 x 100 m) a couple of dozen of these "mushrooms" are picturesquely scattered. In many of them you can see depressions.
Perhaps our ancestors used them for some kind of cult purposes. Particularly impressive are the stones that resemble a face looking up. Many believe that this is a place with a very strong positive energy, and even the weather here is very abnormal.
Section 9. Museum of Defense of the Elbrus Region
The Defense Museum is the highest mountain museum in the world. It is located at an altitude of 3500 meters above 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 over 270 items. It should be noted that during the Second World War, the highest mountain 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 work is carried out.
Section 10. Interesting facts about grief
- In 1956, in honor of the 400th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria, a group of 400 climbers was 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, the local authorities are erecting a new one on the site of the old wooden building.
- In 1991, the Shelter of Eleven's toilet was voted 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 the site for specific purposes for years.
- Elbrus is rightfully considered one of the most dangerous peaks in the world. Accidents are very common while climbing the mountain. In 2004 alone, 48 extreme skiers and climbers were killed.
- In 1997, for the first time, a specially equipped and modified Land Rover was able to ascend the summit of Elbrus. The man 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 immediately see Black and Caspian Sea... It depends on the air pressure and temperature, due to which the field of view increases significantly.
- In 2008, Mount Elbrus was recognized as one of the
Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe and Russia in particular. It is included in the catalog of the seven tallest objects on 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 multilayered solidifications of lava, ash and tephra.
Such peaks are characterized by high heights 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, while 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 slightly lower - 5621 m. The distance between them is 3 km, and if measured along the slope of the mountain - 5200 meters. On this saddle between the peaks of the volcano, the highest alpine shelter in Europe for climbers and fans to conquer peaks is built. And there are more than enough people 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 a little 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 located, in which country. The mountain is located on the border of several territorial units, although most of it is located on the territory of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, which occupies the northern slope Caucasus mountains.
But the mountain itself is located at the junction of Kabardino-Balkaria and the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, its image is on the coats of arms of both these regions. However, North Ossetia, Georgia, and the Stavropol Territory are also very close. Therefore, in the Elbrus region there is a whole complex of resorts belonging to different republics Russia and Georgia.
Also, disputes over the Elbrus issue (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 exactly in the middle of the Main Caucasian ridge.
Name of the mountain
Depending on the location of Elbrus (where it is located, in which country) the local people call the volcano differently. In Iran it is called Aitibares, which means "sparkling or shiny". This name is very consistent with the appearance of the summit, when the eternal snow reflects the bright rays of the sun.
In Georgia, they call Mount 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 related phonetically 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 "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 "Boer" is a familiar word for Russian-speaking people, meaning to twist, turn back. The last part of the word "mustache" is translated as disposition, behavior.
Based on the meaning of the word Elbrus (where it is located, in which country, we found out), the 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 threatens travelers with a strong blizzard with icy rain and snow spinning in the wind. Climbers wishing 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, at the summit, the temperature has always been very low, which, even in the summer heat, does not rise above 0 degrees. The glaciers that cover the mountain cover 134.5 km, which is 10% of all such formations in 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 territories of valleys and slopes. But there are also very picturesque ice ones hanging from the cliffs. These are blocks of glaciers such as Kogutai, Terskol, Garabashi. Especially a lot of eternal ice is located on the northern slope of Mount Elbrus at an altitude of 3850 meters.
The water formed after the melting and falling of these ice accumulations fills the river streams of the mountain rivers of Stavropol, such as the Kuban, Malka and Baksan.
Climate on the mountain
The mountain range always has changeable weather. So in Kabardino-Balkaria, Elbrus is distinguished by a frequent change from good warm weather to bad weather, with precipitation and winds. This is due to the mountainous relief, which forms the circulation of air masses over the seasons.
Summers in the Elbrus region are cool, with high humidity. Good weather has not been observed for more than a week. 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. The southern one cannot boast of thick snow.
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 the glaciers is constantly growing.
Winter lasts 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 largest ski complex "Elbrus Azau" was built in 1969 on the Azau glade, 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 ticket or for the whole day. They also sell season tickets for the entire skiing period (from 2 to 8 days). The cost is also different depending on the season. One ascent - 550 rubles, descent - 500. The most expensive subscription for 8 days will cost 12,700.
Ski slopes
Elbrus has 11 slopes for skiers of all levels: from beginners to professionals. Blue slopes are wider and more gentle. The reds and blacks are for experienced riders, but they also gradually transition into blue, gentle slopes. A ski pass from the mountain will cost from 500 to 850 rubles per day.
Recreation for children is perfectly organized. For them there is a separate drag lift of 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 subtleties of 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 in cash or bank cards... Everything is done for the convenience of tourists.
For conquerors of peaks there is an interesting complex called "Barrels". There, climbers can acclimatize, warm up, rest after a hard climb, have a snack and sleep.
It is located at an altitude of 3750 meters, at the terminal station of the "Garabashi" chairlift. Each "barrel" is designed to accommodate 6 people. There is everything you need: toiletries, bedding, warm blankets.
How to get there?
The best and closest way to get to the mountain is from Nalchik. There is an airport there, so you can fly from different places. Further from the city to Elbrus you can take a taxi or minibus number 17. Then to Terskol you also need to take a fixed-route taxi.
By 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, a description of which is given 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.
The address: Russia, Caucasus
Height: 5642 m (western peak), 5621 m (eastern peak)
First ascent: July 22, 1829
Coordinates: 43 ° 20 "57.4" N 42 ° 26 "51.6" E
Mount Elbrus striking the imagination, beckoning climbers, alpine skiing enthusiasts and fans active species recreation is actually a volcano.
Surprisingly, not everyone knows about this: for most, Elbrus is one of the seven wonders of Russia(according to the 2008 vote), picturesque slopes, on which you can ski down with a "breeze", and virgin, even somewhat "unearthly" beauty of the Elbrus region.
Scientists call Elbrus a stratovolcano, which means that from time to time thick lava flows erupt from the conical vent, which, due to their viscosity, do not spread over long distances, but freeze near the place of their release. That is why Elbrus “grows” with each eruption and is currently considered the highest mountain peak in Europe. By the way, the volcano has two peaks: one of them (western) has a height of 5642 meters, and the second (eastern) is 5621 meters. The two peaks are separated by a saddle with a height of 5200 meters and a length of 3 kilometers.
The first conquest of the summit
According to documents that have survived to this day, the first conquest of the eastern summit of Elbrus took place in 1829. The expedition was led by Georgy Arsenievich Emmanuel, who, despite his Hungarian origin, led the Caucasian fortified line. In addition to numerous scientists included in the expedition by the Russian Academy of Sciences, 1000 servicemen and guides who knew secret paths and the least dangerous slopes took part in the ascent to the summit.
Most likely, according to the assumption of modern historians, a person visited the peaks and gorges of Elbrus long before 1829. However, according to the documentation, it is considered that the first conquest of Elbrus is the ascent of a scientific expedition led by Emmanuel.
Volcano name: origin story
Alas, it is not known for certain at the moment where the name Elbrus came from. Most scientific workers are inclined to believe that the name of the mountain comes from the Iranian word "Elburz", literally in Russian it translates as "shiny or sparkling". In Iran there is a mountain called Elburz, probably for this reason, many associate the origin of the name of the highest point in Europe with the Iranian language. In fairness, it is worth noting that the rest of the scientists, who, albeit in the minority, claim that the name Elbrus may come from the Armenian or Georgian language. The answer to the question, where did the name of the volcano fascinating with its splendor come from, most likely will not be found: it is necessary to plunge too deeply into the history of mankind to solve this problem.
Battle of Elbrus
During the Great Patriotic War, fierce battles were fought for the peaks of Elbrus, in which the famous German division, which bears the name of the most beautiful mountain flower, "Edelweiss", took part.
The division was staffed exclusively by physically hardy people who lived in mountainous areas, who were able to hit the target from the first shot. The mature age of some of best soldiers the Wehrmacht allowed them to fight in the mountains and survive in uninhabited areas, where it was almost impossible to get food, endure severe frosts and strong gusts of wind.
As you know from the history of the Second World War, the battle for the Caucasus began on July 25, 1942. Less than a month later, soldiers from the Edelweiss division occupied the Shelter of Eleven and Krugozor bases, and after a while they conquered the peaks of Elbrus, on which they hoisted flags with a swastika. It would seem that a feat was accomplished, but the ascent of the German soldiers enraged Hitler. “Crazy, deranged people, stupid climbers! While the soldiers of the Wehrmacht are waging a fierce struggle for every square kilometer of the Caucasus, they decided to "play". These climbers, who climbed Elbrus for the sake of their own pride, must be put under a tribunal! ”Hitler shouted in fury. “Why do we need this unnecessary naked peak? They are not aware of what they are doing. Our flags should hang on the buildings of Sukhumi, and not develop where even birds cannot see them, ”A. Speer recorded these words of Adolf Hitler in his diary.
Stalin, apparently, thought quite differently. After the last German units were driven out of the Caucasus at the end of winter, Soviet soldiers conquered the peaks of Elbrus again. The flags with the swastika were destroyed, and the flags of the USSR were proudly displayed on the western and eastern summits.
The volcano only slumbers
Elbrus, as mentioned above, is a Mecca for rock climbers, climbers and skiers. Tourism brings Kabardino-Balkaria the lion's share income to the local budget. Therefore, according to some scientists, the authorities are silent about the danger that awaits not only tourists, but also local residents, whose houses are located near the volcano. "Elbrus can wake up at any moment, the eruption will be the most powerful in its strength!"
Lev Denisov, who calls on the authorities to reconsider their policies and reflect on what they are investing huge amounts of money in, expresses particular concern. “A restless volcano can destroy the entire infrastructure of the region in a few hours and take the lives of thousands of people,” Denisov said in his address. In addition to a possible eruption, the so-called "pulsating glaciers" are especially dangerous. It was they who led at one time to the tragedy in the Karmadon Gorge.
Monument to the Heroes of the Defense of the Elbrus Region
However, neither the authorities of Kabardino-Balkaria, nor high-ranking officials from the Russian Emergencies Ministry want to listen to the scientist's arguments so far. Denisov's opponents say: "It may take several centuries more before the eruption, we do not see any reason for concern so far." Naturally, in this context, the word “may” scares. After all, this does not exclude that Elbrus may "wake up" in the very near future. Who will be right, Lev Denisov with his group of researchers, or his opponents - only time will tell. While in the Elbrus area, you should never forget about your own safety and strictly follow the instructions of the instructor. It is worth remembering that people are constantly dying and missing in the gorges and on the slopes of the mountain: everyone knows that in 2002, during the descent of the glacier in the Karmadon Gorge under the name "Kolka", the most popular actor and director Sergei Sergeevich Bodrov disappeared.
"I am standing on the top, I am happy and dumb ..."
Thanks to the decree of the government of the Russian Federation, with the active support of the authorities of Kabardino-Balkaria, the tourism infrastructure is developing in the Elbrus region by leaps and bounds. Convenient tourist centers, hotels with "luxury" rooms, ultramodern lifts, rental of modern mountain and ski equipment are just a small part of what a tourist who has come to himself can count on. high peak Europe.
You can conquer one of the mountain peaks, from which a truly stunning view opens up, on one of the expeditions. They are constantly organized here by companies that have received a special license for this type of activity. Climbing Elbrus always takes place under the guidance of a professional climber who knows all the subtleties and nuances of conquering a mountain peak. Thanks to the training of these people, climbing Elbrus has become practically safe. However, before deciding to climb the highest mountain in Europe, you should soberly assess your strength. For a person with poor health, such a journey can end tragically. Although, almost all expeditions are equipped with radio communication with special stations. In the event of any dangerous situation, a helicopter rises from a special platform with experienced rescuers on board. Before the ascent, the leaders of the group once again try to determine the physical condition of each participant and, in case of any doubts about his endurance, they recommend postponing the conquest of the peak, but rather enjoy the beauty of the Elbrus region on this trip, which is rather difficult to describe in words.
Numerous photographs of Mount Elbrus can be found on most sites providing travel services related to the organization of mountaineering tours to the mountains and the conquest of new world-famous peaks. Elbrus is included in the list of 7 highest mountain peaks.
In terms of its geological structure, the mountain is a stratovolcano, so there is always a risk of magma eruption. The Elbrus glaciers are an irreplaceable source of fresh water for most of the rivers in the Caucasus and the South of the European part of Russia.
Elbrus is a mountain with a rich history, the existence of which was known to many peoples the globe living far outside the Caucasus region. Legends about this mountain peak can be found in Greek epics, as well as in 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 researchers of the stratovolcano.
Most scientists adhere to the version that the name of the mountain came 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 Karachai-Balkarian dialect means "eternal mountain". Among the peoples of the Turkic-speaking group, the mountain is called Jin-Padishah, which means "the lord of the spirits."
The mountain peak is located on the side of the Greater Caucasus Range. If we consider the system of mountains on the map, then we can see that the stratovolcano is located at a distance of 10 km from the central line of the Caucasian ridge. Elbrus is a natural border separating such republics of the Russian Federation as Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria.
Elbrus is located at an altitude of 5642 meters above sea level and is the most high mountain in Russia and Europe
The mountain range itself is of a volcanic nature. The diameter of the height of its base is 15 km.
The formation of Elbrus began in the Pliocene. This is about 3 million years ago. From that moment on, the mountain peak 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 an 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 to conquer it as part of a tourist group, to undergo psychological and physical tests in thin air.
The height of Elbrus is heterogeneous, therefore, the following peak heights are distinguished, depending on their location:
- 5642 m above sea level Is the most high part mountains 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 is laid.
- 5416 m- The saddle of the hill, which divides Elbrus into its Eastern and Western parts (visually resembles Mountain pass).
For physically unprepared people or those with chronic diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular system, the conquest of these peaks is almost impossible: in conditions of a lack of oxygen, the climber's body begins to malfunction, acute pulmonary failure, oxygen starvation, and a change in consciousness develop.
Climate on the mountain
Elbrus is a mountain (a photo of a hill cannot fully convey its weather), the main influence on the formation of climatic conditions is exerted by air masses circulating in a circle depending on the season. The area located at the top of the mountain is characterized by frequent and abrupt weather changes.
There are heavy rains with increased cloudiness, the duration of which ranges from 5 to 7 days.
Summer season always cool with high humidity levels. 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, the calendar autumn already begins, which is accompanied by a sharp decrease 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 cold snap occurs at the end of January - beginning of February. The spring season on Elbrus begins from the 1st to the 10th of May. During this period, the snow is filled with excess moisture and avalanches descend at the 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 mass is completely absent.
This phenomenon is not affected by the weather conditions of the 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 upland belongs to the category of stratovolcanoes, therefore its structure is formed from several magmatic layers. There are also rock alloys that were destroyed under the influence of high temperatures.
Currently Elbrus does not show volcanic activity, but in spite of this, there is always the risk of an eruption starting. Periodic outbursts of molten rock mass are typical for volcanoes. of this type.
Scientists studying the volcanic activity of Elbrus have not yet noted the seismic danger of the formation of faults or the layering of tectonic plates that could cause the 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 down almost immediately after it is released into the earth's atmosphere.
Relief
Elbrus is a mountain (the photo of the Eastern and Western peaks of the summit shows that they are separated by the Saddle of Elbrus), which has a kind of pass that can be used for communication between the two heights. 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 investigated in 1813 and described in detail by Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences V.K. Vishnevsky.
Flora and fauna
The flora and fauna of the mountain peak is concentrated at its base, which is called the Elbrus region. In order to preserve the flora and fauna of this part of the Caucasus region, on September 22, 1986, a national park was created, the territory of which is protected by law.
This part of Elbrus, which is actually the beginning of a large mountain, is intended for the free development of local species of animals, as well as the growth of trees, grasses and shrubs. Mountaineering, hiking and outdoor recreation are permitted here.
The fauna of the low-lying part of Elbrus is more than 63 species of mammals, at least 112 species of birds, 11 species of reptiles (the main part of reptiles), 8 species representing the family of amphibians, 6 species of fish and an infinite variety 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 tour have survived and multiplied. The population of these animals already totals 4,600 individuals. In the mountain rivers of Elbrus, which originate from melted glaciers, brook trout live, preferring exclusively clear waters.
The flora of Elbrus is distinguished by a variety of flora and is represented by such coniferous tree species as spruce, pine, fir. Alpine and subalpine meadows prevail at an altitude of over 1500 m. At lower altitudes, the flora of a mountain peak is formed by a forest-steppe zone of a mountain type.
Occasionally, there are small areas of open shrub forests.
The following species of Elbrus flora are protected by the Red Book:
- all types of angiosperms;
- birch Radde;
- small chickpeas;
- columnar quarry;
- baksan wolf;
- bell is dolomite.
In spring, more than 3,000 wild grasses bloom on 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 witnesses many exciting adventures and is fraught with many mysteries.
Here are a few real stories from the life in which Elbrus played a key role:
- unlike other stratovolcanoes, this mountain has 2 peaks at the same time, the difference in elevation of which does not exceed 21 m;
- Elbrus was conquered for the first time in 1829, when there was no such modern mountaineering equipment;
- each ethnic group 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 an altitude of 3750 m, which at the time of construction had no analogues in the world;
- Elbrus has almost a Teska - Elbrus(high mountain ridge in Iran, with which it is regularly confused);
- the highest hotel in the world is located on the mountain;
- despite the fact that the volcano is one of the active ones, its last eruption was in antiquity, which is already considered a geological phenomenon;
- in some areas of the mountain peak, the thickness of the glaciers in permafrost conditions reaches 400 m and 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 - the Black and the 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 Elbrus mountain peak on it.
The list above contains those Interesting Facts, which 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 tourist purposes, in a conversation, can tell no less interesting and exciting facts about this mountain peak.
Attractions of the area
Elbrus is a mountain (the photo shows that the territories in its surroundings are mountainous areas, the attractions of which are directly related to
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 flavor and hospitality |
| Baksan gorge | More than 200 thousand tourists visit it annually. |
| Mount Cheget | Center for active tourism in summer time year and ski resort in winter (terrain altitude 3769 m above sea level) |
| Baksan river | Forms the Terek freshwater basin |
| Cafe Ai | Institution Catering 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 due to the similarity with this figure |
| Narzanov | Picturesque valley, which consists of mountain river and alpine meadows |
At the foot of Elbrus, you can see 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.
The first conquest of the summit
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 Minetrie;
- Karl Meyer;
- Adolph Kupfer.
- Janos Besse.
For the first time, the expedition members carried out studies of 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.
A brief history of ascents
After the first successful hike 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 - Germans Ludwig Purcheller, two local residents as guides and Gottfried Merzbacher;
- in 1910 - the Swiss de Ramy 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. Japaridze;
- in 1934 - climbers from the USSR Gusev and Korzunov first climbed the peak of the mountain in the winter season.
Climbing a mountain peak 80-100 years ago was more difficult than the challenges faced by modern climbers. The pioneers of the mountain did not have such modern equipment, maps, satellite navigation, radio communications in case of worsening weather conditions or emergencies.
Danger of Elbrus
Any mountain peak, the height of which is 3000 m or more, carries a potential threat to people, flora and fauna located in the surrounding territory.
To date, the following dangers of Elbrus are distinguished:
- the possibility of an eruption;
- the occurrence of seismic activity;
- convergence of avalanches;
- rapid destruction of glaciers;
- stone rubble.
The indigenous population never built their homes too close to the foot of the mountain, so as not to endanger your life and loved ones. Tourists who go to hiking on mountainous terrain or decided to conquer its peak, it is necessary to keep in mind these threats at all times.
How is the ascent going, routes
The best way to climb Elbrus is as part of a climbing expedition led by a guide who acts as a guide, safety instructor and guide. The most popular are the following tourist destinations:
Classic route
It originates from the Barrel 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 parking lots and shelters created for the safety and recreation of climbers.
What route to choose for beginners who are going to conquer Elbrus, you can learn from this story:
The average duration of the ascent is from 7 to 10 days. The weather conditions, the reaction of the tourist's organism to the liquefied air play an important role. Athletes with excellent physical fitness and practical experience of mountaineering overcome this route 3-4 times faster.
East Ridge Route
If we consider this direction on the 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 go through the mountain pass, to overcome the glacier, which stretches along the entire length of the eastern ridge.
After reaching the Achkyeryakol lava flow, the group takes a vertical direction and moves straight to the mountain peak.
Other routes
An alternative route is the simultaneous ascent to both peaks of the mountain. It is called the Elbrus Cross. It belongs to more difficult tourist destinations, since within the framework of one trip the expedition actually conquers the stratovolcano twice.
Only experienced athletes can go on other routes that do not go through the standard climbing trails.
Infrastructure
The territory in the circumference of 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 resembled a dugout, which was covered with stones on top. At the same time, no more than 5 people could be in it. Today, there are modern and comfortable shelters on the territory of the mountain, 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, periodically insulated wagons are encountered, in which you can also warm up, wait out a snowstorm or provide first aid to the victim in case of injury.
Cable cars
The development of the Elbrus cable car and the territory of its foot dates back to 1969. At that time, the first cable car was built, which brought tourists along the Azau - Krugozor route. The maximum height that the lifts could climb - 3000 m.
With the development of mountaineering and mountain tourism, the following cable cars were built:
- Krugozor - Mir station - the terminal point of the line was at an altitude of 3500 m, and the date of completion of construction is 1976;
- Mir station - Gara-Bashi - improved and more safe type chairlift, which was put into operation in 1979 and could deliver people to an altitude of 3780 m.
In 2015, on Mount Elbrus, all these lines underwent a comprehensive modernization, during which the component parts of the lifts, nodal connections and units, cabins were replaced. Photos of the updated line were replicated in the media and on tourism-related websites.
The cable car received new technical capabilities, allowing it to transport 3-4 times more people than it was at the end of the 70s.
At a 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 at the Eastern Peak of Elbrus.
Article formatting: E. Chaikina
Useful video clip about Elbrus
Video about what clothes you should wear to climb Elbrus:
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 for Elbrus: Mingi-Tau - eternal mountain (Karachay-Balkarian). Oshkhamaho is the mountain of happiness (Adyghe). Jin-padishah - the king of mountain spirits (Turkic). Albar (Albors) - high; high mountain (Iranian). Yal-buz - snow mane (Georgian). Uryushglumos is the mountain of the day. A piece-maf is a mountain that brings happiness. Shat, Shat-mountain - "covered with snow" (Russian). Ash-gamakho - "sacred height" (Circassian). Uro-khokh - "white mountain" (Ossetian). Styr-khokh - "big, high mountain" (Ossetian).
Elbrus is a two-peaked cone of an extinct volcano. The western summit has a height of 5642 m, the eastern one - 5621 m. They are separated by a saddle - 5200 m and are approximately 3 km apart from each other. The total area of the Elbrus glaciers is 134.5 km2; the most famous of them: Big and Small Azau, Terskol. According to the mountaineering classification, Elbrus is assessed 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 Bochki shelter is located, which is a twelve six-seater insulated residential trailers and a kitchen. Currently, it is the main starting point for those climbing to the top of the mountain. At an altitude of 4100 m there is the highest-mountainous hotel "Priyut 11", which burned down at the end of the 20th century, on the basis of which the given time a new building was rebuilt, which is also actively used by climbers.
The eastern summit of Elbrus from the 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 turns to the left side of the Southeastern 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 paths. From the village of Terskol 5 - 6 hours.
Descent to the glacier from the Ice Base from the moraine, then a steep ascent. Then go up a gentle snow slope, gradually turning to the left, moving in a wide snow hollow to the place where the slope steepness increases sharply (up to 30 - 35 °). Here, turn left and, following a traverse to a snowy takeoff, after 300 - 350 m, go to the rock ridge on which the Eleven Shelter is located (on the left along the ascent path - cracks). From the Ice Base 1.5 - 2 hours. In summer, the path from the Ice Base to the Eleven Shelter is usually marked with wooden poles every 40-60 m.
At the Eleven Shelter, it is advisable to spend an active daytime acclimatization with access to the Pastukhov Rocks.
From Shelter Eleven (exit at 1 am) go straight up to the left of the heavily snow-covered rock ridge, in the direction of the Eastern Summit, to the left side of small rocky outcrops called Pastukhov Rocks. 
From the Pastukhov Rocks 300 - 400-meter climb 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 Summit. From Shelter Eleven to the saddle 5 - 6 hours.
On the left, under the slopes of the Western Summit, at the beginning of a huge snow trough leading to the saddle, there is a hut. At 250 - 300 m above the hut, turn right from the saddle and climb the shoulder rocks along a snowy slope with simple rocky outcrops. From the shoulder along a wide horizontal plateau, an exit to the tour on the Eastern summit of the Elbrus massif - 5621 m. From the saddle 1 - 1.5 hours. Descent along the ascent path to the Eleven Shelter 3.5 - 4 hours. From Shelter Eleven to the village of Terskol 3 - 3.5 hours. The duration of the route is 3 - 4 days.
The western summit of Elbrus from the Shelter of Eleven (route 2B).
The way from the Terskol settlement from the Elbrus saddle is described above.
At 80 - 100 m above the hut to the saddle, turn left and go up and right along a steep snow-ice slope, crossing the slope, onto the rocks of the shoulder of the Western Summit. From the shoulder along a wide plateau and simple snow-capped rocks, an exit to the Western summit of the Elbrus massif - 5633 m. From the saddle 1.5 - 2 hours.
Descent along the ascent path to the Eleven Shelter 3.5 - 4 hours. From Shelter Eleven to the village of Terskol 3 - 3.5 hours. The duration of the route is 3 - 4 days.
Western summit of Elbrus across the Western shoulder (route 2B).
From the village of Terskol, first ascend along the road, then along the path on the right side of the Azau gorge and after 4 hours exit to the original bivouac to Staryi 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 Maly Azau glacier to the snowy plateau. Along the plateau (closed cracks!), Then along a small gentle snow slope, go to the rocky ridge to the right (north) of the Khotutau pass and the Bezymyanny glacier descending into the Ullukam valley. From the Old Horizon 4 - 4.5 hours.
Here, turn to the right and along the simple rocks of the ridge, go to the rocky ridge descending into the Ullukam valley, along the right bank of the saddle glacier. Cross this ridge with a traverse and along simple, in places of average difficulty, destroyed, snow-covered (cornices!) Rocks of the ridge rising in the direction of the Western shoulder, go to the snow ridge. Along a sharp (cornices!), Then a wide snow ridge, climb the Western shoulder of the Elbrus massif. There is a bivouac in a small snow saddle to the right of the shoulder. From the Khotutau pass 3 - 5 hours.
From the saddle, ascent to the North-East along snow fields with a gradually increasing steepness, traverse to the left, bypassing the Western summit of Elbrus and going out under the North-western rocky ridge of the Western summit. From here, along simple rocks of the ridge or along the snow along the rocks, a steep ascent to the Western summit of the Elbrus massif. From the shoulder 5 - 6 hours.
Descend along the ascent path or over the saddle and Eleven's Refuge. The duration of the route is 4 days.
The first ascent to Elbrus
Elbrus was first mentioned in the "Book of Victories" by the Persian historian Sheriff ad-Din Yezdi, who writes that the Central Asian conqueror Timur (Tamerlane) allegedly climbed Elbrus to pray during his successful military campaigns in the Caucasus. 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 relations between Russia and Georgia began to develop.
The official date of the conquest of Elbrus is considered to be 1829, when the expedition was organized, led by the head of the Caucasian fortified line, General G.A. Emanuel. Since the expedition was scientific in 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 physicist Emiliy Lenz, zoologist Eduard Minetrie, 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 had made interesting trips to a number of countries not long before. Later, in 1838, based on the results of his travels, he published a book "Traveling in the Crimea, the Caucasus, Georgia, Armenia, Asia Minor and Constantinople", which still retains its cognitive and scientific value. The support service of Emanuel's expedition consisted of 650 soldiers and 350 line Cossacks.
The first part of the route from the Konstantinogorsk fortress (present-day Pyatigorsk) to the fortification "Stone Bridge" (on Malka) passed without complications. On July 8, 1829, the travelers arrived at the Kharbas River (a tributary of the Malka). From here they climbed to an altitude 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 reached the top of Elbrus would be awarded a reward.
After a short rest and checking the equipment, the assault on Elbrus began, in which Kupfer, Lenz, Meyer, Minetrie, Bernardazzi and 20 Cossacks participated. 
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 light brilliance of its disk was a pleasant contrast to the blue of the sky, which was 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 the mountains that formed the first chain of the Caucasus unfolded in front of us ... "
Little experience in mountain climbing, poor quality of climbing equipment, low calorie content of food products made themselves felt. Elbrus conquered at the cost of great efforts. Further in Kupffer's diary we read:
“We moved in a straight line, then 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 drained our strength, and we eventually had to stop to rest at almost every step. The thinness of the air is such that breathing is not able to restore the lost strength. The blood is very agitated. My lips burned, my eyes suffered from the dazzling glare of the sun, although I, on the advice of the mountaineers, blackened my face with gunpowder near my eyes. All my senses were dull, 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 an altitude of 4270 m, they decided to go down.
Four of them went to storm the summit: Emily Lenz, the Cossack Lysenkov and two people from the group of guides - Killar Khashirov and Akhiya Sottaev. Due to lack of strength, Lenz and the guides accompanying him were forced to descend from a height of 5350m. Killar Khashirov continued climbing alone.
The expedition's diary says about it this way:
“The descent was very difficult and dangerous. The snow fell through, holes formed under our feet, which made it possible to see the drowning chasms. Cossacks and mountaineers tied themselves in pairs with ropes. During this wonderful day, Emanuel watched our movement with an excellent telescope. He noticed one man who was ahead of all and went to the ridge of rocks that form the very top. Emanuel could no longer doubt that one of us had reached the top. "
The brave Kabardian Killar Khashirov at 11 a.m. on July 10, 1829 was the first to set foot on the top of Elbrus, fixed a pole on it, surrounded it with stones and after a short rest began to descend.
"When Killar reached the summit, a rifle salute was given in the camp in honor of the conquest of Elbrus."
Assessing the actions of Killar Khashirov in last hours storming and conquering Elbrus, Kupfer noted that, an experienced hunter, Killar skillfully used the morning cold, and when Lenz was at his last stop, the conqueror of Elbrus was already returning from the summit he had just conquered. And to the main base camp, where General Emanuel was, Killar arrived earlier than the other participants.
The ceremony of honoring the conqueror of Elbrus was held in a solemn atmosphere.
By order of the Academy of Sciences, two slabs were made with the following text in Russian and Arabic:
“... Camped here from July 8 to 11, 1829, the Commander of the Caucasian Line, General of the Cavalry Georgy Emanuel, was with him his son Georgy, 14 years old, sent by the Russian government Academicians: Kupfer, Lenz, Minetrie, Meyer, also the Official of the Mining Corps Vansovich, Mineralnye Vody Architect Ios. Bernardazzi and the Hungarian traveler Yves. Besse.
Academics 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 summit of which 16,330 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 reach the Elbrus, which is still considered impregnable! "
The texts were originally carved in stone, then cast in cast iron. The slabs were supposed to be installed at the site of the main expedition camp at the foot of Elbrus. However, they were delivered to Pyatigorsk and for more than 80 years were at the entrance to an artificial cave, which at one time General Emanuel built as a sign of the conquest of Elbrus. Then they were transported to one of the museums in Tbilisi. In Pyatigorsk, at the Podkumok foundry, they cast copies of plates about the immortal first ascent of Elbrus by a resident of the Kuchmazukino aul (now the village of Staraya krepost, Baksan District, Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic) Killar Khashirov.
In 1932 (that is, 103 years later), during a ski trip, the famous Soviet climbers V. Nikitin and V. Korzun on one of the rocks in the Irakhiksyrt tract discovered an inscription overgrown with moss and, having cleaned it, were able to read the barely noticeable words: From 8 to 11 July, the camp is under the command of General Emanuel from the cavalry. "
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, several well-equipped expeditions come from foreign countries, which, as a rule, did not dare to storm Elbrus. And the few attempts at ascents, which were undertaken, ended in vain.
Elbrus Chronicle
1813 year. Russian academician Vishnevsky first determined the height of Elbrus (5421 m).
1829 year. The first to climb Elbrus was a Kabardian, a resident of the Baksan Gorge, Killar Khashirov, the expedition guide of General G.A. Emanuel.
1868 year. The conquest of the eastern summit of Elbrus by an English expedition led by Douglas Freshfield with a Balkar guide Akhiya Sottaev.
1874 year. Climbing Elbrus by English climbers under the guidance of F. Grove - the author of the book "Cold Caucasus".
1875 year. Publication of the book "Geological exploration of the Main Caucasian Range" (with a map of Elbrus).
1884 year. Climbing Elbrus is made by a group of Hungarian climbers led by Moritz Deshy, 1889. The first completed traverse, traversed by Ungern-Sternberg from the western summit through the saddle to the north to the Malka valley.
1890-1896 A. V. Pastukhov, a Russian military topographer and mountaineer, conquers the western and eastern peaks, laying the foundation for the study of Elbrus.
1891 year. Gotorrid Merzbacher and Ludwig Purtcheller with two guides conquered the western summit of Elbrus, covering all the way from Terskol to the summit in the shortest time since the beginning of Elbrus exploration - 8 hours.
1907 year. Geologist V.V. Dubyansky began scientific geological research on Elbrus and Elbrus.
1909 year. At an altitude of 3200m, the Caucasian Mountain Society built the first semi-dugout for five people. This was the first pre-revolutionary building on Elbrus.
1910 year. Swiss climbers Gugi and De Rami conquer both peaks of Elbrus in one day.
1911 year. For the first time, 10 mountaineering groups have visited Elbrus in a year, of which 4 are foreign.
1911 year. Climbing Elbrus S. M. Kirov .. 
1914 year. Publication of the classic work on the geology of Elbrus "To the petrography of Elbrus". Author V. V. Dubyansky.
1925 year. Observations of the Elbrus glaciers began.
1925 year. The first Soviet ascent of Elbrus by 19 climbers led by G. N. Nikoladze.
1925 year. The first Soviet woman on Elbrus was A. Japaridze.
1927 year. The first ascent of N. V. Krylenko to Elbrus.
The year is 1928. During the year, 32 groups of Soviet climbers climbed Elbrus, while in previous years - from 1829 to 1927 - 56 groups visited it.
The year is 1928. The government commission examined the mineral springs of the Elbrus region in 1929. On Krugozor, a wooden building with 40 seats was built at the expense of the Society for Proletarian Tourism and Excursions.
1931 year. Under the leadership of Professor V.A.Konopasevich, the first circular ski trip around the eastern summit of Elbrus was completed. Five participants climbed from the saddle to the top.
1932 year. At an altitude of 4200 m, a wooden building with 40 places for tourists and climbers, the Shelter of Eleven, was erected.
1932-1933 V. Korzun, V. Nikitin and S. Lysenko conduct winter meteorological observations on Krugozor.
1933 year. For the first time, 10 Moscow skiers skied to the "Shelter of Eleven", the descent was also carried out on skis.
1933 year. On the saddle of Elbrus, at an altitude of about 5300m, a high-mountain shelter "Sedlovina" for climbers has been built.
1933 year. Planned training of mountaineering personnel began in Tegenekli.
1933 year. The meteorological station at the Shelter of Nine, built by the Pyatigorsk Weather Bureau, began to operate. Its first winterers were V. Korzun, A. Gusev, A. Gorbachev.
1934 year. V. Korzun and A. Gusev made the first winter ascent.
1934 year. The first complex Elbrus expedition of the USSR Academy of Sciences began its work.
1935 year. For the first time in one winter, N. Gusak and V. Kudinov climbed both peaks of Elbrus twice.
1935 year. The first winter ascent to Elbrus was made by the students of the Ordzhonikidze Pedagogical Institute A. Arakelyan, A. Poltoradneva, M. Sveshnikova, Z. Rodkina, E. Chikhradze.
1935 year. A record was set for mass visits to Elbrus; 2016 climbers visited the summit in a year. Among them - 638 participants of the collective farm alpiniad of Kabardino-Balkaria in 1937. The first circular ski trip around the Elbrus massif was carried out at an altitude of 3000-4000 m.
The year is 1939. The first skiing downhill from the top of Elbrus to the "Shelter of Eleven" was made by the Moscow slalom player V. Gippenreiter. 
The year is 1939. A three-storey hotel at the Shelter of Eleven began to operate.
1943 year. On February 13 and 17, a group of military climbers, participants in the defense of the Caucasus, climbed Elbrus and, dropping the fascist standards, raised State flag THE USSR.
1946 year. In honor of the 25th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria, 40 athletes made the first post-war ascent of Elbrus.
1947 year. A. Maleinov, V. Gippenreiter, K. Spiridonov made a ski traverse of both peaks of Elbrus.
1950 year. An ARMS auto-weather station is installed on the eastern summit.
1957-1958 On the slopes of Elbrus, great scientific work is being carried out under the program of the International Geophysical Year.
1960. 1,395 athletes took part in the mass alpiniad on Elbrus in honor of the 40th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria.
1963 year. The first chair-lift in the Elbrus region to Mount Cheget was put into operation. Its length is 1600 m, the vertical drop is 650 m.
1963 year. Master of Sports A. Berberashvili climbed Elbrus on a motorcycle.
1965 year. The high-mountain hotel "Itkol" was opened in the Elbrus region.
1966 year. The Mi-4 helicopter landed for the first time on the eastern summit of Elbrus (pilots Yu. Rakhmanov and M.Kh Asanshin).
1966 year. The construction of the second stage of the chairlift on Mount Cheget - "Cheget-2" has been completed.
1967 year. A new attendance record for Elbrus has been set. During the year, 3,224 people visited its peaks, including 2,536 people climbed in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Great October Socialist Revolution in one day.
1968 year. Tourism hotel "Azau" began to function at an altitude of 2200 m.
1968 year. The eight-storey tourist hotel "Terskol" of the USSR Ministry of Defense was put into operation.
1969 year. The cable car on the Cheget mountain began to operate.
1969 year. The first rope-pendulum road from the station "Azau" to "Krugozor" was built. Its length is 1,900 m, the height difference is 900 m.
1972 year. The Elbrus Medical and Biological Station (EMBS) of the USSR Academy of Sciences began to function.
1974 year. The Cheget tourist center was built.
1976 year. The cable car from the station was put into operation. "Krugozor" to st. "Peace".
1982 year. Climbing in honor of the 60th anniversary of the formation of the USSR.
1983 year. Elbrusiada, dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Caucasus from the Nazi invaders and the hoisting of Soviet flags on Elbrus.
Elbrus Map
