Krasnodar Krai, Administrative region in Southern Russia
Krasnodar Krai is an administrative region in southern Russia that stretches from the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov, covering flat plains in the north and mountainous terrain in the south. The territory ranges from the fertile fields of the Kuban valley to the foothills of the Caucasus, with the coastline shaped by sandy beaches, port towns and small bays.
The area became an independent administrative region in 1937 when it was separated from a larger Soviet territorial unit. During the 19th century the area served as a borderland between the Russian Empire and the mountain peoples of the Caucasus, shaping its later settlement patterns.
The area along the Kuban draws many visitors during harvest time, when local markets sell grapes, watermelons and honey from the region. In the coastal towns, fishing and seafaring shape daily life, while in the northern parts agriculture and horse breeding remain visible traditions.
The region is best approached through the cities in the north and the Black Sea coast in the south, with most visitors exploring only select parts. Travelers should pay attention to changing weather in the mountain zones, while the coastal resorts may be fully booked during summer.
The territory fully encloses the Republic of Adygea, a smaller autonomous territory with its own administration. This geographic arrangement means travelers must cross one area to reach the other.
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