Kazbek – is an extinguished stratovolcano. It is more than 5 000 meters high. The last eruption was in 650 BC. That is why you do not need to worry that the last extinction may happen at an unsuitable for you moment.
The name
The Georgian call Kazbek mountain Mkinvartsveri that is translated into English as an “ice top”. However, it is also called “Kazbegi” in honor of Stepantsminda village it is on the root of the mountain.
Its official name Kazbek – gave it a local konung Kaxbek, who was dreaming about calling something in his own honor.
Kazbek legend
According to the Greek ancient myth, Prometheus who tell people a secret of fire, the Gods chained to Kazbek mountain. And an eagle flew every day to him and bat his liver (at night all wound of Prometheus healed). As an evidence, they tell that even nowadays the mountain sometimes is “shaking”. And it is not because of seismic impact of the extinguished stratovolcano, but the visit of the eagle to Prometheus.
Just for you to know: Prometheus Cave is also considered an object where Prometheus was chained. Obviously, the Georgians like this ancient Greek myth.
Mountain conquering
The three Englishmen were the first who conquered this mountain for the first time. Nowadays, everybody who has minimum alpinist experience can try and do it. The professionals provide their services and help to amateurs and all other people who tried to conquer at least one mountain.
The best view on the mountain
The most famous photos of Kazbek that are on the Internet, were made from Stepantsminda village. Usually, they are taken with a view on the Tsminda Sameba against the mountain. However, you should pay more attention – have a walk on the root of Kazbek mountain, as well as try to conquer it.
In order to get to Kazbek mountain, you will need to choose one of two ways:
- Have a trip with a guide and an excursion group on the bus.
- Take a car for a rent and drive on your own.
Choose the most suitable way for you – take a car for a rent.