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 the formation of climatic and geographical features of the region. In ancient legends, this mountain was considered the residence of the gods. Elbrus is a sleeping volcano 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. Such a beauty in the world can no longer be found. 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 that Mount Elbrus has. Its height is 5642 meters.
Elbrus is a stratovolcano. Its layers were formed as a result of eruptions from ash, lava and tuff. This mountain was most active for a long time, about 200 thousand years ago. Gradually, eruptions began to occur less frequently. The last of them happened about 2500 years ago. Elbrus is now 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 volcano has. Cone-shaped peaks with ideal craters did not undergo destruction and erosion. Complementing this magnificent picture is a beautiful hat made of snow and ice, falling from its peaks. It does not melt even in the summer. Therefore, it is called Lesser Antarctica.
The volcano lives its life to this day. In its bowels there are hot masses. They affect many environmental factors. Elbrus nourishes and heats numerous sources that are healing. The composition of this water includes mineral salts. They are saturated with carbon dioxide. In places where there are cracks, the smell of sulfur dioxide is felt.
Many sources, famous in different regions, originate in the bowels of the mountain. The high altitude of Elbrus allows us to subdivide this mountain into several climatic zones. The top 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 pool. Glaciers form here. 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 every climber. The summit offers a magnificent view of the entire mountain range. Elbrus itself in clear weather is visible even from the most distant surroundings of the region.
The territory adjacent to this giant is unique in the composition of the plant and animal world. In addition, it has become a major tourist area, which provides all the conditions for outdoor activities. This is one of the main centers of mountaineering. The height of Elbrus was conquered by many athletes. Here is one of the largest geophysical laboratories, which allows you to make important scientific discoveries.
