Smotrych Canyon

Smotrych Canyon is a geological formation that runs through the city along a river, with towering limestone walls creating a deep natural gorge. Walking trails allow visitors to move through the canyon and view the different rock layers and vegetation along the water.

The canyon was carved over millions of years by river erosion, slowly shaping the limestone into the steep walls visible today. This natural fortress-like formation attracted the establishment of the city centuries ago, and the gorge remains central to the urban layout.

The canyon cuts through the heart of the city, creating a dramatic natural separation that locals and visitors move through daily. This geological feature has shaped how people experience the urban space and remains deeply connected to the city's identity.

Wear sturdy footwear when walking through the canyon, as paths can be uneven and slippery in spots, especially after rain. Visit during drier periods for easier and safer access to the various walking routes.

The rock layers in the canyon contain fossils from an ancient sea, revealing traces of prehistoric marine life preserved in stone. These remains tell the story of a time when the region was completely covered by water millions of years ago.