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All Russia Sochi Eagle Cliffs

Eagle Cliffs

These limestone cliffs are associated with the Greek myth of Prometheus.

Sochi, Russia

Added By
dylanvt
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Orlinyye Skaly   sitnikov
Orlinyye Skaly   sitnikov
Agura waterefalls.   dylanvt / Atlas Obscura User
Agura waterfalls.   dylanvt / Atlas Obscura User
The Black Sea beyond the Eagle Cliffs.   dylanvt / Atlas Obscura User
View of cliffs and neighboring mountains.   dylanvt / Atlas Obscura User
View with warning sign.   dylanvt / Atlas Obscura User
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About

Located in the mountains southeast of downtown Sochi, the Eagle Cliffs (Орлиные скалы – Orlinyye skaly) provide a reasonably easy hiking experience. The hike features placid meadows, spectacular views across the Caucasus Mountains, waterfalls, and swimming holes. At the peak is a statue of Prometheus, the Greek hero associated with the Caucasus region.

Rising well over 1,300 feet (400 meters) above sea level, the cliffs were named for the eagles that breed across the landscape. The cliffs are well known among rock-climbers for their sheer white precipices coated with bright limestone and yellow sandstone. The area is also peppered with karst caves, the largest of which is 49 feet (15 meters) deep. The summits and the gentler slopes are covered by Turkish pines, Oriental hornbeams, and oaks.

From the top, visitors can see Chugush, the highest peak of the nearby Republic of Adygea; Achishkho, which is home to several mysterious dolmens; Pseashkho; and Aibga. In the other direction are Sochi and the Black Sea.

Prometheus has been associated with these cliffs by locals living along the Black Sea coast for thousands of years, lending further historical and mythical intrigue to the site. According to mythology, Prometheus was chained here for giving fire to humankind. A lady named Agura was the only one willing to help Prometheus, giving him water and cleaning his wounds every day. However, when Zeus found out, he threw her off the cliffs, transforming her into the nearby Agura River and waterfalls.

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Mountains Mythology Nature

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Entrance costs 100 rubles.

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dylanvt

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October 15, 2020

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  • http://orlinye-skaly.ru/
  • https://www.tourister.ru/world/europe/russia/city/sochi/placeofinterest/16681
Eagle Cliffs
Unnamed Road
Sochi, 354024
Russia
43.560148, 39.823696
Visit Website
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Nearby Places

Dacha Stalina

Sochi, Russia

miles away

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miles away

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miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Sochi

Sochi

Russia

Places 2

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miles away

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miles away

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Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Sochi

Sochi

Russia

Places 2

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