A small republic is not only by the standards of Russia, but even relatively the Greater Caucasus - Kabardino-Balkaria. The religion of this area differs from the generally accepted in the country, but the republic is not famous for this all over the world. It is here that the highest mountains of Europe are located.
History
Balkaria and Kabarda were completely separate existing regions until 1922. Kabarda became a part of the Russian Empire in 1557, while Balkaria only became part of 1827. Officially, these territories were transferred to our state in 1774 under the Kuchuk-Kainardzhi Treaty.
Kabarda and our country have always been on friendly terms, but they became especially close after Ivan the Terrible married the daughter of Prince Kabarda - Temryuk Idarov. In 1561, Goshane became the wife of the Russian ruler, taking the name Mary after baptism. Her brothers went to serve the tsar, having founded the clan of princes Cherkassky, who gave Russia a lot of politicians and famous commanders.
In 1944, "thanks" to Stalin, the Balkars were deported. More than 37 thousand people were sent to Central Asia by the 14th echelons, among which were both infants and ancient old people. Their fault was only that they were born Balkars. 562 people died on the road. At the end of the road, carefully guarded barracks were set up for people. For 13 years, people actually lived in camps. Leaving without permission amounted to escaping and was a criminal offense. The history of the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria at this seemed to be interrupted, since even in the name only Kabardians were allowed to remain. Fortunately, in 1957, the Balkars were rehabilitated and the republic was returned to its former name.
Since ancient times, the Kabardians lived on the plains, while the Balkars lived in the mountains. To this day, the situation remains virtually unchanged: the vast majority of villages in the mountains belong to the Balkars. However, the mountaineers gradually descend into the flat part of the republic. In addition to these two peoples, the republic is also inhabited by about ten nationalities, including Russians.
Republic
First of all, Kabardino-Balkaria, whose religion is an important part of culture, is known for its highest mountains: on its territory there is a large part of the world-famous five-thousandths.
The relief rises as you move south - the northern plains gradually rise and lead the traveler to the main Caucasian ridge. It is here, near Karachay-Cherkessia, that Mingi-Tau rises, known to most under the name Elbrus.
Kabardino-Balkaria, whose religion and language are inextricably linked with the beginning of the history of these peoples, is in no hurry to urbanize. Only 8 cities are located on the territory of the republic, which remain true to the precepts of antiquity. The rest of the population lives in villages and villages located high in the mountains, on the banks of rivers or in gorges. The largest gorges vary greatly both in natural conditions and in degree of development. So, the Baksan Gorge is a famous tourist route for Cheget and Elbrus. Whereas Hulamo-Bezengi still remains an underdeveloped zone, accessible only to hikers and climbers. Two things remain common to all gorges to this day: tremendous, incredible beauty and sheep.
Kabardino-Balkaria, whose religion forbids the use of pork, focuses on raising sheep. Even where human habitation is not visible to the horizon, flocks walk around. As thunder booms up, frightening the animals with its echoing rumbles, no less piercing screams of sheep are heard in piercing silence. This makes an incredible impression - the roll call of the elements, the panic voices of nature. Cows are a little less popular in the republic. These animals are not afraid of much and, despite any unrest in nature, are still slowly moving along the roads, phlegmatically working their jaws.
High in the mountains, with great luck, you can see the real symbol of the Caucasus - mountain tours: in the early morning these animals make their way along mountain trails to the places of grazing.
The origin of Kabardino-Balkaria suggests a large number of mountain villages, life in which has remained unchanged for many centuries. However, after deportation, despite subsequent rehabilitation, people were not allowed to return to their homes. This explains the ruins of villages, on which today only the wind walks.
However, there are still authentic villages in the republic. Even today, everything is happening here just like hundreds of years before: in the central part of the settlement, elders gather to discuss matters or have a leisurely conversation. Children run around the streets, women bake hitch, knit socks. Here, centuries-old traditions and everyday life are connected in the most natural way.
Religion
Over the years, Kabardino-Balkaria has become more and more religious. Religion has a positive effect on all areas of the population: for example, there are no drunk or homeless locals. A smoking woman in rural areas will not only cause bewilderment, but also wait for comments from residents. Long skirts and scarves are worn by most women. In cities, however, young people are increasingly neglecting these conventions, but you will not see frank clothing in the locals. When traveling to Kabardino-Balkaria, it is worth considering these features and not taking excessively tight outfits or an extreme mini with you.
Customs
The obvious difference between Balkarians and Kabardians from Russians is their incredible hospitality. They are able to invite someone whom they barely had time to meet. By tradition, neither the children nor the hostess sit down at the table with the guest and men. They watch from the side, waiting for the moment when their help may be needed. In cities, this tradition is almost forgotten, but in villages it is firmly adhered to. You won’t get the mistress with you, so just thank her for the hospitality.
In the Caucasus, it is considered extremely impolite to interrupt the interlocutor, but to kill a person older than you in age is simply impossible.
What is famous for the republic
You can come to the republic all year round: there is always entertainment for the season. Of course, in winter in the first place rest in the ski resorts and climbing to the peaks. However, this is not only a winter holiday - there is always snow on Cheget and Elbrus, you just need to climb higher.
In the warm season, mineral waters, muds, climatic resorts, hot springs and pine forests with their healing air are popular in Kabardino-Balkaria. In addition, lovers of hiking, horseback riding, climbing trips come here.
Transport
Major cities are easy to reach, as are tourist destinations. Though infrequently, buses run regularly from Nalchik to all gorges. It is easy to get to any of the resorts by taxi. However, traveling through the passes is only possible on very passable cars. A passenger car can only move in the Baksan Gorge.
Trains can take you to the Terek, Nalchik, Maisky and Prokhladny. On the main territory of the republic, the laying of railways is not available due to the features of the relief.
Kitchen
Many types of cheeses, a variety of milk products, the active use of vegetables - all this is Kabardino-Balkaria. Islam is a religion that excludes the use of pork, so lamb is most often eaten. The inhabitants prefer Ayran, a fermented milk product, to drink. Wine is sold only in tourist places, despite the fact that for the majority of the Caucasus it is associated with homemade wine.
Souvenirs
Many knitwear can offer Kabardino-Balkaria. Religion (what? Of course, Islam) makes it possible to eat lamb, but these animals are also famous for their wool, from which women knit beautiful and warm things.
Ceramic products, which exactly repeat archaeological finds, are very popular with tourists. Chasing, chain mail, bronze and leather items are what travelers in Elbrus enjoy buying.