Mangup
Mangup is an ancient cave-fortress city on a plateau 584 meters above sea level. Once here was the capital of the entire principality of Theodore, not for nothing, but a serious political power of its time.
The city survived six eras, from the late Romans and Byzantines to the Khazars and Feodorites. It flourished in the 15th century, until the Ottomans arrived in 1475, and the last inhabitants, the Karaites, left the plateau around 1790. At the top, the remains of defensive walls and towers, a large basilica, the remains of a palace and cave churches with frescoes have been preserved, in total more than four dozen monuments.
Look for Mangup near the village of Khoja-Sala in the Bakhchisaray district, the landmark is Mount Baba-kaya. The plateau is on a mountain with ravines and capes, so the ascent will not be a smooth walk: take comfortable shoes and water, you will have to sweat at the top.
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Mangup and why is there so much hype about it?
This is an ancient cave-fortress city on a plateau 584 meters above sea level. Once here was the capital of the entire principality of Feodoro - not just anything, but a serious political power of its time.
Who lived here and when?
The city survived six eras - from the late Romans and Byzantines to the Khazars and Feodorites. It flourished in the 15th century until the Ottomans came in 1475. The last inhabitants, the Karaites, left the plateau around 1790, and it has been quiet since then.
What to see at the top?
Remains of defensive walls and towers, a large basilica measuring about 31 by 26 meters, remains of a palace and cave churches with frescoes. In total, there are more than four dozen sights here - there is plenty to wander around.
Difficulty getting up?
The plateau stands on a mountain with three ravines and four capes on the northern slope, so you can't call it a flat walk. Take comfortable shoes and water - you will have to sweat at the top.
Where is it in general and how to look for it?
Near the village of Khoja-Sala in the Bakhchisaray district of Crimea. Aim for the Baba-kaya mountain - it is on its plateau that the former city spread out.
Tours visiting this place
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