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Undisputed Beauty in a Disputed Land

Edited By: Shai K.

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The peninsula of Crimea (pronounced “cry-mia”) is located on the northern shore of the Black Sea. The area is one of the most beautiful locations in Eastern Europe, in both architecture and natural wonder. Historically, the southern part of Crimea was colonized by many ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and the Romans. It enjoys sub-tropical weather thanks to its proximity to the Black Sea.

The Adalary (rocky islands) of Gursuf

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In 1991, with the fall of the Soviet Union, Crimea became part of independent Ukraine, but in 2014, Russian forces invaded Crimea and currently occupy it. The area is now disputed between Ukraine and Russia – the Russians insist that Crimea deserves to be an independent entity while Ukraine demands to have it returned to their control.

Jur-Jur Waterfalls

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Luckily, the dispute has not damaged the natural beauty of the region as you can see in the following photos.

Abandoned Soviet-era Submarine Base

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The Crimean Mountains (Black Sea in the background)

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Cape Fiolent

Cape Fiolent is a place of beauty. The name "Fiolent" comes from the Italian word 'violento', meaning 'turbulent' or 'violent', referring to the turbulent waters of the cape during certain times of the year. But don't let it deter you, when the water is calm, it is a clear, azure color that mesmerizes onlookers.

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A cave in Mt. Ay-Petri

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The Church of Christ's Resurrection, Foros

Sitting on the edge of a cliff overlooking the village of Foros, the church is a favorite wedding venue. It was consecrated in 1892 and even the last Tsar of Russia prayed in it.

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Clouds over Khaphal

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The only inhabitant of an abandoned farm near Sudat

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Winter sunset over Mt. Ai-Petri

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Eski-Kermen

This was a medieval underground city-stronghold in Crimea, built by the Byzantines in the fifth century, and eventually destroyed by the Mongols.

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Golden Gate Arch, Kara Dag reserve

The reserve was created in 1979 to protect the unique flora and fauna in the area, as well as the abundant precious stones - remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions from 150 million years ago.

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"Devil Fingers" above Lapsy Bay

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Kizil-Kaya, overlooking the town of Yalta

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Uch-CoshCove

Known as the Crimean Grand Canyon, it hides many incredible secrets, one of which is considered to be a fountain of youth, called "Kara Gol".

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A water spout forming over the Black Sea

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St. Vladimir's cathedral

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Genoese Fortress, Sudak

One of the most famous locations in Sudak is this Roman fortress, built in the sixth century by emperor Justinian I.

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Swallows' Nest Castle

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Kara Dag ("Black Mountain")

Kara Dag is a volcanic formation located in the south-eastern part of the Crimea peninsula. The area is rich in minerals and semi-precious stones.

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A lighthouse overlooking the Black Sea

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The town of Balaklava

A balaclava is a tightly knit garment that covers the head and face (also known as a ski-mask). The garment got its name from this town, as it was commonly used during the freezing winters.