Bakla

This is a cave city and ancient fortification on the southern slope of the Inner Range of the Crimean Mountains. The hillfort was founded approximately in the second half of the 3rd century, and in 1299 it was destroyed by the Golden Horde warlord Nogai.

The nearest landmark is the village of Skalyste in the Bakhchysaray district, from it to Bakla about 2.5 km to the northeast. Then - on foot, the car will not take you there for you.

Nearly a hundred two-tiered limestone caves, two-story dwellings, a 9th century temple, monastic cells and a necropolis with more than 800 burials. Nearby in the valley lie the remains of three medieval churches.

There is a 40-meter sphinx and honeycomb weathering of limestone, and in 1984 the outcrop became an official excursion site of the International Geological Congress. Geology students still go here for practice.

The settlement is open all year round and entrance is free. In spring or autumn, walking on the slopes is more comfortable than under the July Crimean sun, where there is almost no shade.