chufut kale cave city

Located at Bakhchisarai, this was the highlight of my trip. This cave city has been occupied since the 8th century, first by Muslims, then by the Karaites, a crazy Jewish sect that fended off the imperial powers from this locale for three hundred years. Here's the approach to the city. Note the modern-day dwelling (with goats) in the foreground.


Hiking toward the city. It was quite a grueling trip up. Though the woman in the light blue suit in the second picture managed to do it in stiletto heels!!



Synagogue on top of the cave complex; it dates back to the 15th century. Note the Hebrew inscription on the wall.