Azish Caves, Limestone cave in Apsheronsky District, Russia.
Azish Caves form a limestone system in the Azish-Tau mountain range that extends 640 meters through multiple levels of galleries and halls. The formations throughout the passages show layers of limestone that have developed over millions of years.
The cave was discovered in 1911 when it was hidden beneath beech and fir forests in the region. It received official protection status in 1973 and opened for guided visits to the public in 1987.
Each chamber in the cave system has been given names like the Reception Hall, Throne Room, and Fantasy Hall based on their distinct limestone formations. Visitors discover these names on plaques throughout the passages, helping them connect the cave's geography with local imagination.
The cave features 220 meters of illuminated pathways with metal stairs and handrails for visitors to navigate safely. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the underground passages stay cool year-round.
An underground stream flows through the lowest gallery and ends in a waterfall that drops into narrow crevices beneath the cave floor. This hidden water source carved out most of the large chambers and continues to shape the passages today.
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