Elbrus — the peak of Europe or Asia? Controversy about the highest mountain of the Caucasus and interesting trivia about it.
Is it the highest mountain in Europe or one of the Asian peaks? The disputes are still going on, and more mountaineers are making their way to Russia. Here is Elbrus, a peak as picturesque as it is controversial.
The Caucasus’ tallest peak is Elbrus. Its height is 5642 m above sea level. It is located in the Russian Federation, near the border with Georgia. Since it is included in the so-called Crown of the Earth, it is a frequent destination of mountaineering expeditions and alpine tourism.
The name “Elbrus” probably comes from the Persian language. Depending on the source, it is either translated as “high mountain” or as “shiny”. The latter name may have to do with the fact that much of the mountain is covered by glaciers. Eternal snow occurs here above an altitude of 3700–4000 m.
Elbrus peak — height
The first person to measure the height of Elbrus was Polish astronomer Wincenty Vishnevski. He lived during the Partitions of Poland and worked in Russia. In 1813 he calculated that Elbrus is 5422 m above sea level.
Today we know that this data was inaccurate. The Elbrus massif has two peaks:
