All about the Diva rock in Simeiz (Crimea)
The beauty of Crimea attracts the attention of tourists from all over the world. One of the amazing wonders of the Black Sea coast is the Diva rock in Simeiz. Thanks to its majestic appearance, it has appeared in many famous films and still excites the imagination of tourists from all over the world.
Where is?
The rock is located in the south-west of the Crimean coast, in the water area of the resort village of Simeiz. Its height is 51 meters. Together with the mountain called Koshka Diva, it is a part of a complex of natural objects, which are a kind of "shield" for the bay from storm waves and piercing winds. Diva consists entirely of limestone rocks. Researchers believe that its appearance occurred several million years ago, when a piece of limestone broke away from the main mountain range.
Tourists note an interesting fact - the upper part of the rock resembles a woman's profile with her hair down. The attraction has two official names: Diva and Jiva. The latter was appropriated by the Crimean Tatars.
It is believed that the name comes from the Indo-Aryan word diva, which means "divine". The uniqueness of the rock lies in its constant slow movement in the sea. It is no coincidence that the amazing hill attracts tourists. The diva is covered with an aura of secrets and mysteries.
Legends and myths
Initially, the Simeiz mountain complex consisted of three rocks: Panea, Diva and Monk. The meaning of the names is revealed by an ancient legend. A gloomy hermit appeared on the peninsula many years ago. The locals treated him with caution, tried not to start a conversation and named him the Monk. In fact, a ruthless killer was hiding under the guise of an unsociable person.Evil forces did not let go of the sinner and decided to find his weak point. The devil took the guise of a black cat and entered the Monk's cave.
Taking pity on the animal, the old man let him in. One night, the devil in the guise of a four-legged pet heard that the Monk in a dream calls the name of the girl. The tempter understood where the old man's weakness lay. And he sent a young lady to him. The monk succumbed to temptation and chased the young maiden. At that very moment, retribution overtook him. He turned to stone, and the beautiful runaway, along with the cat, also turned to stone. So they remained standing in the sea.
However, today the Monk Rock no longer exists. It cracked during a large-scale earthquake in the late 1920s, and years later, a powerful storm completely destroyed it. According to another legend, Diva was once a beautiful girl, but she had a cruel and evil heart. For her sins, she was turned to stone.
Characteristic
The modern natural monument is very popular among tourists and sportsmen. At the foot of the cliff there is a small pebble beach with underwater "terraces". The steep slope of Diva attracts the attention of climbers and hidivers (they practice diving from a height). On the northern side of the hill, there is an observation deck that can simultaneously accommodate up to 10 people.
For tourists, an amazing view of the beauty of Crimea opens up: bays, beaches, islands and the sea surface. The observation deck is equipped with special barriers. Everyone who wants to tie a bright scarf to them. Visitors believe that such a gesture will help them return to an amazing place again.
How to get there?
You can see Diva by following the following route.
- We get to the bus station of the resort village of Simeiz and head west. It runs along a cypress alley.
- Near the cafe called "Jerzy" we turn towards the coastal strip.
- After walking a little towards the Panea cliff, we will see the path to Diva.
Over time, vacationers made their way to the top of the amazing cliff to admire the seascapes. For the safety of the ascent, the local authorities installed a ladder with a handrail. Naturally, getting to the very top of Diva is not easy. You should be careful and attentive. A large number of tourists will not allow you to move quickly.
On average, the climb to Diva will take 15-20 minutes. The elderly and children will undoubtedly move even more slowly. But the end result is worth it! The amazing view from the cliff remains in the memory of tourists for a lifetime.
Having descended from the Diva observation deck, vacationers have the opportunity to swim in the bay located between the rocks. The water here is turquoise and the beach can be described as wild. The intoxicating aroma of juniper will allow tourists to immerse themselves in the “heavenly” atmosphere of the Crimean peninsula. This place attracts fans of diving.
Near Diva there are other sights of Simeiz:
- Panea cliff;
- Mount Cat;
- rock Swan Wing.
It is from Panea that you can contemplate all the power and beauty of the Diva. According to excavations, a monastery was located on the cliff in the Middle Ages. Later it was rebuilt for defense needs. The ruins of this fortress can still be seen.
Mount Koshka, located near Diva, is famous for its stone torso. On the mountain, there are relict trees that are listed in the Red Book. In ancient times, people considered this hill to be sacred. Not far from it is the Swan's Wing rock. The name of the hill was invented by tourists, as outwardly it recalls the wing of a proud bird. Both mountains are natural monuments.
You can look at the beauty of the Diva rock further.