There is no exact date of formation of the village and it is impossible to determine. However, it can be said that Tsovkra-1 is more than a thousand years old.
The village existed in the Christian era. This is evidenced by the fact that even today the remains of the cemetery "Chapur Kh1attallu" and the name "Burch1annil rat1" have been preserved, i.e. pig gorge.
The Muslim cemetery arose after the adoption of Islam, i.e. after 8-10 centuries. If we take even these dates as a basis, then p. Tsovkra-1 is more than a thousand years old. The villagers were fire worshipers. Some customs have survived to the present day "Intnil khkhu", etc.
The name of the village of Tsovkra - Ts1uk1ul has a double explanation: firstly, "Ts1u" - "K1ul" - those who know the fire, and secondly, "Ts1u" - "Kkul" - a new settlement. Around the current location of the village, the contours of various settlements have been preserved. These are Eyabak1u, Tsunkra, Ttukhavalu, Karkala, Okruts1 and others. Perhaps these settlements moved to one place and a new village called Tsovkra arose.
In the book “History of the Laks” by R. Marshaev and B. Buttaev, it is written that once in ancient times a large fire burned in the center of the village, formed after a lightning strike, and after that they began to be called “Ts1u-k1ulmiy” by those who know fire. Tsovkra has other names:
1. Hun Ts1uvk1ul - big Tsovkra
2. Paglaman Ts1uvk1ul - village of rope walkers
3. Kullul Ts1uvk1ul - fescue Tsovkra.
After 1860, when the Kazikumukh district was divided into three naibstvos, there were two villages in the Ashtikulinsky naibstvo called Tsovkra-first, the small Tsovkra-second, which has been preserved to this day.
Economic and political development
Indeed, before the start of the 1st World War, Tsovkra-1 began to correspond to the name Bolshaya Tsovkra.
Here, according to the 1913 census, there were 343 households and 1341 inhabitants. After the establishment of Soviet power, the 1-Tsovkrinsky village council also included the population of six auls located around Tsovkra-1. These are: Byarnihh, Kyichurluhh, Tukat, Ollaurtti, Chakali, Khhyalluh-maschi.
Together with them, there were 563 households and 1,794 residents in the 1-Tsovkrinsky village council. However, there was no direct subordination and each village developed independently.
The inhabitants of these villages were friends with each other, traded, helped each other in difficult times, etc.
The main occupation of the inhabitants was animal husbandry, agriculture and otkhodnichestvo. Earth, i.e. there was not enough arable land and the inhabitants were forced to engage in otkhodnichestvo.
Sowed mainly barley, naked barley, peas, potatoes, rye.
However, the harvest from their own fields was enough for 1-2 months. Therefore, in order to provide bread for the remaining period, they went to Tabasaran, Kaitag, Majalis for grain. They made money the best they could.
The Tsovkrinites were both tinkers and masons, and goldsmiths and silversmiths, they were engaged in trade, performed seasonal work in order to provide families with bread. Very many died there from malaria, fever and other diseases.
For sale, women from Tsovkra-1 wove a special home-made cloth - chukhari, bairda. They were in demand in Derbent and Nukha.
One of the sources of income was tightrope walking - a dangerous and risky occupation of the Tsovkrinites. Rope walkers staged a spectacle in various villages and cities not only in Dagestan, but also in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, Central Asia reached the borders of Afghanistan and China.
Rope walking
The fame of the Tsovkrinsky tightrope walkers quickly spread throughout Dagestan and Azerbaijan. They began to be invited to weddings, various celebrations and holidays.
Famous tightrope walkers were Omalakh1a, Gupaev Ramazan, Kurbitaev Alkhas, Mallaev Shapi, as well as women Kuchieva Aishat and Khizrieva Bat1i.
The art of tightrope walkers reached a real flowering under the Soviet regime. The group "4 from Tsovkra" began working in the state circus in 1935.
Under the direction of folk artists RSFSR Yaragi Gadzhikurbanov and Rabadan Abakarov, Tsovkrinsky tightrope walkers toured many countries in Europe and Asia. Two artists were awarded the title of People's Artists of the RSFSR, nine artists became People's Artists of Dagestan, six artists - Honored Artists of Dagestan.
This is now walking on a tightrope the layman perceives as circus art. Some 100 years ago, tightrope walking in Tsovkra was almost the only way to get around. There are a lot of legends about how tightrope walking arose. One of the most famous - young people tested each other for courage and walked on a tightrope over a cliff. The inhabitants of the village themselves admit that tightrope walking is the usual way of making money.
Approximately 10 students attend the Tsovkrinsk tightrope walking school. Anyone can come here. Art is popular among both children and teenagers.
They say that you can learn to walk on a tightrope in a few days, and the art is learned almost until old age. On average, each experienced tightrope walker owns almost 30 numbers, both complex and simple.
Since ancient times, in the village of Tsovkra, there were original family schools of tightrope walkers. Children were taught from about 7-10 years old. Unfortunately, continuity is being lost, today no more than 80 households out of 400 farms remain in the village. In April 2012, the President of Dagestan presented his cultural award to the Tsovkrinsky tightrope walkers and the residents began to hope that the art of tightrope walking would flourish for many years to come.
Tragic start
In 1917, the Great October Socialist Revolution took place and the formation of power began. For residents of Tsovkra-1 it started tragically. In 1918, in the city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan, 20 handicraftsmen from the village were executed. Tsovkra-1, who fought for the establishment of Soviet power in Uzbekistan in the detachment of Faizulla Khodjaev.
“The Emir attacked the Dagestanis, who stood up in arms for the freedom of the fraternal Uzbek people. On this day, 20 handicraftsmen from the village were executed. Tsovkra-1". So it is written in the article of the Doctor of Historical Sciences Adelgerey Gadzhiev “The age-old friendship of the peoples of Dagestan and Central Asia” on December 8, 1974. Natives of Tsovkra also fought for the establishment of Soviet power in Dagestan.
In 1919, more than 20 Tsovkrinites fought in the detachment of G. Saidov, four of them died - Gamzaev Sansadin, Aliev Ramazan, Butaev Kurban and Gasanov Magama. About the exploits of Gasanov M. it is written in the book of Ibragimkhalil Kurbanaliev "Partisans of the mountains".
The civil war ended during the period of restoration of the national economy, and the process of collectivization began everywhere.
In 1931, a collective farm was formed and in the village. Tsovkra-1, but it lasted only one year and fell apart.
The collective farm was re-established in 1935. They united land, cattle, horses and began to live in a new way. There were periods when the collective farm had 10,000 sheep, 1,000 cattle, 200 horses, and others.
Collective farm chairmen different time worked:
1. Israpilov Kurban
2.Ramazanov Razak
3.G-Kurbanov Shagabudin
4. Abidov Magomed
5. Gandaev Gadzhimakhmud
6. Ramazanov Ilyas
7. Magomedov Daud
8. Gasanov Kamil
9.Khanov K-Magomed
10.Kurbanov Alil
11.Mavraev Pazil
12. Majidov Khairutin
13.Bakriev Ibragim
14. Zagidanov Hamid
15. Santuev Magomed
16. Omarive Gasan
17. Gasan Santuev
18. Zakaryaev Magomed
19. Hajiyev Rizvan.
Participation in the Great Patriotic War
198 people took part in the Second World War. 94 soldiers died on the fronts of the Second World War, 11 mothers lost two sons each, 28 people returned disabled and crippled, 16 people returned with military orders, 11 people had an officer rank and held command positions.
More than 30 men and women worked on the defensive structures. 3 women died there. The villagers helped the front in any way they could: with warm clothes, food, raw materials, precious things and others. There is a known case when 21 kg of silver was collected in one day.
To provide themselves with their own bread, more than 30 hectares of virgin lands were plowed up. A special tragedy for the Tsovkrinites was the death of 72 children in 1942-43 as a result of a bark epidemic. Many fathers, returning from the war, did not find their children at home.
The son of immigrants from the village of Tsovkra - I Akhmet - Khan Sultan became twice a Hero Soviet Union.
His name stands next to the names of famous aerial aces. During the war years he made 603 sorties. 30 fascist planes were destroyed personally, 19 in the group. He was awarded 13 orders and many medals, including 3 Orders of Lenin, 3 Orders of the Red Banner.
Honored Test Pilot of the USSR, Laureate of the USSR State Prize. He tragically died on February 2, 1970 while testing a new aircraft.
An avenue in the city of Makhachkala is named after him, where a bust of the hero is also installed. In the native village of Tsovkra - I, a monument was erected, SPK s. Tsovkra - I bears the name of the hero, a museum has been opened for him at school No. 8 in Kaspiysk.
After the establishment of Soviet power and until today, all the power in the localities was exercised through the Soviets, no matter how they were called local, rural, but today the administration.
At various times, the chairmen of the Council and the heads were:
1. Ahmedov Rashid
2. Huseynov Khanbutta
3. Gandaev Gadzhimakhmud
4.Abidov Gadzhiomar
5. Abdullaev Magomed
6. Omariev Magomed
7. Majidov Magomedramazan
8. Bagome Magomed
9. Omariyev Nurislam
10.Shamkhalov Myamma
11. Minkailova Gurun
12. Shamilov Samad
13.Osmanov Aslan
14. Magomedov Gadzhi
15. Isaev Nukh
16.Bakrieva Sofia
17. Gasan Santuev
18. Osmanov Pasha
19.Kusiev Shahban
20.Majidov Ilyas
Frame smiths
The primary school in the village of Tsovkra - I was opened in 1920. In 1935 it was transformed into an incomplete secondary school, in 1958 into an eight-year school. Since 1966, the school has become a secondary school.
The first teachers and organizers of the school in 1920 were Hasanov Magoma and Majidov Magomed. In 1940, the school was located in private or adapted premises. In 1940, the construction of a new standard building was completed. At various times, the leaders of the school were:
1.Saidov Saipu - Kaya
2.Osmanov Osman - Kukni
3. Ataev Magomed - Khanar
4. Gyidatli from the Lak region
5. Isaev Gadzhimurad - Tsovkra - I
6. Majidov Magomed - Tsovkra - I
7.Karanov Abdul - Byarnich
8. Huseynov Mu'lin - Chukna
9.Jalilov Gasan - Cooley
10. Minkailov Rasul - Tsovkra - I
11.Shamkhalov Ramadan - Kaya
12.Bakriev N - Magomed - Tsovkra - I
13.Zakaryaev Ghazali - Tsovkra - I
14. Seifullaev Magomed - Tsovkra - I
15.K - Aliyev G - Huseyn - Tsovkra - I
16. Saimaeva Patimat - Tsovkra - I
17.Bakriev Bakri - Tsovkra - I
18.Majidov Ilyas - Tsovkra - I
19. Salamova Khadizhat - Tsovkra - I
More than 200 students graduated from high school. Many of them became scientists, candidates of sciences, academicians received Honored titles, were awarded orders and medals.
Here are some of them:
1.Bakrie Bakri M. Honored teacher of the RSFSR and DASSR.
2. Ramazanov Tazhib R. Honored teacher of the DASSR.
3. Magomedov Khalid G. Honored Doctor of the DASSR.
4. Mavraev Pazil D. Honored Agronomist of the DASSR.
5. Santuev Magomed M. Honored veterinarian of the DASSR
6. Gasan Santuev Honored veterinarian of the DASSR
7. Medzhidov Ilyas R. Honored teacher of the RD.
8. Mugutinov Nazhmutin M. Honored teacher of RD.
Scientists:
1. Mejidov Yusup Varisovich - the first candidate of sciences from the village. Tsovkra - I
2.Khalilov Abdurakhman I. - academician, doctor of sciences.
3. Ramazanov Magomed Sh. - academician, doctor of sciences.
4. Yunusov Kurban M. - Doctor of Sciences.
5. Seifullaev Badrutin M. - Candidate of Sciences.
6. Nikaev M - Ramazan A. - candidate of sciences.
7. Sadykov Nurulla - candidate of sciences.
8.G - Khanov M - Bagh - Doctor of Sciences.
9.Yunusova Maryam - candidate of sciences.
10. Omarovs Ahmedkhan and Omargadzhi - Candidates of Sciences.
11. Ramazanov Magomed - candidate of sciences.
12. Murtaeva Elena Z. - Candidate of Sciences.
Family and family life
Families are big and small. Large where several generations live, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren living in the place.
The heads of such a family are the father and mother. Separate couples have their own rooms. Nags from the pantries are kept by the mother-in-law, who tries to save as much as possible in large families, sometimes there are 20-30 people.
Marriage and Wedding
Marriages were mostly made between Tsovkrinites. Marriage between relatives was preferred but not required. Rarely did marriage occur with other villages, there is a saying:
Zhalin vilva tukhumraya buva, shower arhssanan bula.
There are levirate and sarorate forms of marriage. Levirate involves marrying the brother's widow. Sarorat is when a widower marries the sister of his capable wife. There was also a personal betrothal - this is if two related families agreed to marry their children. They say that in ancient times a rope was placed on the hadekan, and a large fire was lit under it. The girls climbed the rope, the one that crossed the rope got married, and the one that fell burned down.
Today's Tsovkra
From the once large village (400 households) there are about 80 farms left. 50 farms are inhabited by 1 person, more than 10 farms roam to Makhachkala and back.
In total, the population is 460 people, 80 children study at the school, more than 200 people are pensioners, and the process of aging of the inhabitants continues. After 1991, the situation of the villagers worsened even more. Not enough work. Young people go to the cities and do not return to the village.
The collective farm has become economically weak, the number of sheep has decreased, few cows have been sown, and the yield per hectare is very low.
On the other hand, private farms have become stronger. They have increased the number of cattle and small cattle, but not everyone is able to manage such a farm. The population is provided with drinking water.
The roads are better than before but require constant repair.
The TV works but the quality is poor. There is no mobile communication, there is a negotiation room, 2-3 stalls work. The market is on Friday. There is no bath, a lot of collapsed houses. There are no new buildings.
Tsovkra-1 - a village where ancient stones breathe history - the highest mountain village of the Kulin region, located at an altitude of 2800 meters above sea level at the foot of the majestic mountain Shunudag. The village, which is famous throughout the world for its wonderful art of tightrope walking. However, there are many different versions about the origin of this art.
Venerable elders say that in ancient times, in search of lost animals, as well as while hunting for wild animals, the inhabitants of Tsovkrin had to overcome dizzying ascents and steep descents along the rocks with the help of hemp ropes (lasso). In conditions of rugged terrain, they had to cross mountain rivers, abysses and flexible gorges on logs, using a pole as a support and a balancer for this. Subsequently, they got so good at walking on logs, and then on a rope, that gradually walking on a rope became an obligatory attribute of folk celebrations and entertainment in the village, and later - a craft. It is thanks to the unique craft of tightrope walkers that the village received wide popularity in Russia and abroad. But it still remains a mystery - what all the same laid the foundation for tightrope walking: the need to overcome mountain peaks and abysses, or the competition of Tsovkrin men in agility and dexterity in climbing over bottomless mountain failures? History likes to ask a lot of questions. Only one thing is indisputable: the unique art of tightrope walkers staggers the human imagination.
As for the name Tsovkra itself, there are many versions of the decoding of the name of the village, but the most faithful, closest to the truth, is probably the one in which the name of the village is translated as “knowing the fire” (in lak “TsIuvkIul”)
This version coincides with the assumptions of the aksakals and historians about the origin of tightrope walking. There are many legends. According to one of them, when building a new house, the Tsovkrinites kindled the first fire in its hearth from a sacred fire that blazed between huge boulders. Such a fire was considered a talisman against the evil forces of nature, spirits, saved the hearth from diseases, misfortunes, hunger and cold.
A bridge was laid to the sacred fire: a smooth log on high supports. According to the “fire ritual”, the girls had to transfer the fire to their hearth by walking along a log smoothly polished by thousands of feet. If a girl can light a torch, then this will bring happiness and prosperity to the owner of the new house. This ritual walking on a log required great dexterity and courage from the gourds, while falling from it, in addition to physical danger, also carried shame and suspicion of the loss of innocence.
Professor of Daggos University Magomedbag Huseykhanov cites many facts confirming that in ancient times the Tsovkrin ancestors were avid fire worshipers: “The antiquity of the village is indicated by evidence of the spread of Christianity here before the adoption of Islam. In the vicinity of the village there is a "chapur khIattalu" - a cemetery of infidels, which is older than the current cemetery.
The Tsovkrintsy, apparently, consumed wild boars for food, since near the village there is a tract of wild boars - "BurchIanniyalu". In the rituals and traditions of the Tsovkrinites, all signs of Zoroastrianism, a religious teaching that was widespread in the 1st millennium BC, have been preserved. in the Eastern Caucasus, where there was a cult of fire. And even today, the rites, customs and rituals of the village of Tsovkra are characterized by the presence of fire in them: lighting bonfires, candles, fire wheels, bringing out lamps, etc.”
We have been planning to make an interview with the head of the Kulinsky district for a long time. It so happened that the heads of the districts where the Laks mainly live turned out to be the most closed. However, everything changes, and fate brought us together with the head of the Kulinsky district, Said Suleymanov. We met with him and he answered our questions.
Zaur Gaziev
- How is the Kulinsky district different from other districts of Dagestan? How would you identify the people living in your jurisdiction?
- The high-mountainous Kulinsky district is one of the most beautiful corners of the mountainous Dagestan. More than 70% of its territory is located at an altitude of over 2000 meters above sea level. The area is unique in its location, relief, contrast of geographical landscapes, beauty of nature. Majestic mountains with snowy peaks, bizarre folded mountain ranges, where Dagestan turs and mountain eagles live, deep canyons and valleys, many rivers and streams, alpine and subalpine meadows, where hundreds of flocks of sheep and herds of cattle graze - all these are natural monuments that delight residents and guests of the region. By nature, our people are hospitable, hardworking, and most importantly, very friendly. Many poets and writers of Dagestan have repeatedly written in their poems, essays and poems about the amazing nature and beauty of our mountains, about wonderful people, workers of fields and farms.
Kulinsky district is famous for its heroes of civil and Patriotic Wars, heroes of socialist labor and holders of the Orders of "Lenin", "Glory", "Badge of Honor" and many state awards, laureates of honorary titles. The pride of the district are workers of science, culture, education, sports, poets and writers, musicians and composers, hundreds of scientists and honored workers of various specialties.
- You drew a pastoral picture ...
— You are right, I really do not get tired of admiring the places where I come from. After all, each village in the region is unique both in terms of its natural and architectural structure and the variety of professional crafts. For example, Cooley is famous for its livestock breeders, breeding farms, masters of sheepskin coats and felt boots. Kani, Tsuschar, Khosrekh - beekeepers, field growers, poets, writers, composers, scientists. Sumbatl - railway workers! Tsovkra-1 - tightrope walkers-acrobats. Vachi, Tsyisha - craftsmen of stone and ivory products, jewelers and cloth weavers. Kaya - hatters and skilled merchants. Haihe and Haimi are tinkers. Vihli - masters of felt and sheepskin coats. Sukiyah is considered a village of shoemakers and tailors. The famous folklore ensemble "Vikhlinka" from the village. Vikhli has been pleasing not only the inhabitants of the region and the republic with his art for many years, but also takes part in all-Russian folklore festivals. The village of Tsovkra is the birthplace of the twice Hero of the Soviet Union Ametkhan Sultan, the village of Kaya is the birthplace of the Hero of the Soviet Union Tsakhkhay Makaev, the village of Kuli is the birthplace of the Hero of Russia Khalid Murachuev. Our people are glorious hardworking people, I am proud of them.
- How long ago were you elected, how many years have you been in charge of the Kulinsky district? What is your education?
- I have been managing the Kulinsky district for the eighth year. He was elected head of the municipal district in February 2005, and again in March 2009. Education - higher pedagogical and higher economic, management of organizations. He graduated from the Faculty of History of the State Pedagogical Institute and the Faculty of Management of the Moscow State University.
Let's dive into the past a little. What were your very first steps as the head of the district, how did you start your activities in this post?
— The very first step in the position of the head of the district is to solve the problem of creating a team of like-minded people who are able to individually and collectively solve the most difficult issues on the socio-economic and cultural development of the district, to preserve and continue the best traditions of our people. It was not an easy job, as there are always not enough professionals and people who are responsible for the matter.
— What problems and questions do people in your area most often turn to you with? And how solvable are these problems?
- The main problems and issues of appeal of the residents of the district are social and domestic problems. Of course, there are employment issues as well. The management of the district takes all measures to satisfy the appeals of the residents of the district. Most of these problems are basically solvable, except for those general ones that are solved only at the regional and federal levels. And here I would like to note that sometimes just listening to a person is also very important. The area is small, about 11 thousand people live here.
- Which of the problems facing your district would you designate as a priority, how can it be solved?
- One of the difficult problems we have is the issue of gasification of the region. We have ready-made design and estimate documentation. But, as you yourself understand, this is a lot of money, such problems cannot be solved by the district's forces. Another one is the repair and construction of roads of both republican and regional significance. In the district, work is underway on asphalting (major repairs) of a section of the highway of republican significance with a length of 3 km in the village. Cooley, worth 15 million rubles. The construction of a road connecting the district center with the villages of Tsovkra-2 and Tsuschar is underway, a bridge crossing over the river near the village has been repaired. Sumbatl on the Vachi-Kuli highway.
The construction of water pipelines in the settlements of Khosrekh, Kuli, Vachi, Kaya, Vikhli, Kani and Khaikhi also remains problematic. Some work is being done to include this issue in targeted investment programs and plans for the socio-economic development of the region. Funds are being sought for their implementation.
- How many schools are in your area, how many graduates of this year have entered the universities of the country and the republic?
— To date, there are 26 educational institutions in the Kulinsky municipal district. Of these, 15 general education institutions: 10 secondary, 3 basic and 2 primary schools, 6 establishments additional education and 5 preschool educational institutions. 1226 students study in 15 general education institutions. More than 300 teachers are involved in teaching and upbringing in these schools. More than 700 students study in institutions of additional education. There are 192 students in preschool educational institutions of the district. This year, construction of new standard buildings for schools in the village is underway. Wachi and s. Vikhli. 5 million rubles were allocated from the district budget for the current repair of educational institutions in the current year. Some educational institutions, 1-Tsovkrinskaya secondary school, Vikhlinskaya secondary school, Khosrekhskaya secondary school, Vachinskaya secondary school and Sukiyahskaya NSh, are in disrepair and need major repairs. Some institutions of additional education do not have their own premises, such as the Khosreh Music School, the Vikhlin School of Arts and the regional House of Children's Art.
- I asked you this question because now the biggest risk group is precisely the youth, than better quality education, the less likely the young person is to become the target of extremist propaganda.
- I understand why you are asking, we also read your weekly and other publications in the district, and watch the RGVK. I understand the situation in the republic. The problem of the quality of education is a state issue, and we have it under control. In the last academic year, the final certification in USE form handed over 192 graduates; 21 graduates received gold and silver medals "For special achievements in teaching". Including 12 gold and 9 silver. We greatly appreciate young people who strive for knowledge. So, in the administration of the municipal district, honoring the graduates-medalists of the district with the presentation of valuable awards was held. All graduates of the 2011-2012 academic year received certificates of secondary education and entered various universities and colleges of the Republic of Dagestan and the Russian Federation.
- I would like to approach the problems of working people. What branches of agriculture are developed in the Kulinsky district, how profitable Agriculture in your conditions?
- The area has a developed livestock industry with transhumance sheep breeding. Agricultural production cooperatives have been preserved in all settlements. In the region, the number of sheep and large cattle increases from year to year. cattle livestock productivity indicators are growing. The number of livestock breeders and the number of individual entrepreneurs engaged in sheep and cattle breeding is increasing. But, by and large, this is not the kind of agriculture that today solves the food problem throughout the world. Yes, we have environmentally friendly products, but their efficiency is extremely low. We need new breeds of small ruminants, we need more productive seeds. So far, unfortunately, our agriculture is unprofitable. The state provides all possible assistance, supports sheep breeding and dairy farming. Potato cultivation also brings great benefits. Good harvests have been obtained this year.
— What development programs are working in the Kulin district? Federal, republican, regional?
- Currently, a targeted investment program is being launched in the Kulinsky district, which provides for the construction of social infrastructure facilities. In particular, the construction of a sports hall in the village is being completed at the expense of the local budget. Kaya with an area of 540 m², the cost of the object is 29.1 ml, rubles, the amount of financing for 2012 is 7 million rubles. A school is being built in the district center, with. Vachi, worth 113.54 million rubles, the amount of financing in 2012 amounted to 13 million rubles. At the expense of the republican and local budgets, the MFC building has already been built at a cost of 9 million rubles. Completed and put into operation the building of the FAP with. Khaikhi worth 2.589 million rubles, it was built at the expense of the local budget. Work is underway on the construction of a group water pipeline "Tsyisha - Vachi - Kaya" worth 33.8 million rubles with the development in 2012 of 13 million rubles at the expense of the republican budget. It was also planned to reconstruct the regional stadium in the village. Vachi, the volume of construction is 12.682 million rubles, however, due to insufficient funds in the republican financing, it has not yet been opened, although it was supposed to start work in 2012. I understand that for you these are insignificant figures, but behind them are concrete deeds and benefits that will at least make the lives of our people a little easier. We are very grateful for this to the republican authorities. We ourselves, as I said about it a little earlier, simply cannot pull these projects.
- What social and cultural facilities have been commissioned recently, and which ones are already on the way? How is gasification, construction of roads, education and healthcare facilities going?
- Currently being completed overhaul water pipelines in the villages of Kuli, Khosrekh, Kaya, Vikhli at the expense of local budgets. For our villages, where for centuries the problem of water supply has been one of the most difficult, this is a huge deal. Many of our villages even use rainwater! Behind last years Since 2008, first aid and obstetric centers have been built and put into operation in the villages of Khaimi, Sukiya, Tsyisha, Kani, Khaikhi, Tsuschar, Kaya in the Kulinsky municipal district. And this means that someone's life will be saved, someone will be helped to improve their health, someone will receive timely assistance.
Another important topic is roads and bridges. More recently, two bridges have been built and put into operation in the villages of Kuli and Khaikhi. A sports hall was built in the village. Vikhli. Another project that we are proud of is the construction of three 2-storey 8-apartment buildings, as well as the building of a fire department for 28 jobs in the village of Vachi. In the village of Kaya, one 2-storey 8-apartment house was built. I cannot but say that the sports hall in the village of Kuli, the building of the Kayalinsky high school and hotels in Wachi. In October 2012, the building of the multifunctional center (MFC) was put into operation in the village. Wachi.
— For your small area, this is a serious amount of work! We are very glad that you did this for people.
But we don't stop there; a water pipeline is being built in the villages of Vachi and Kaya; sports complex in Kaya; school building for 200 student places in the village. Wachi; highway "Sumbatl - Tsovkra-2", a school building for 300 student places in the village. Vikhli.
— The Kulinsky district is known for its tightrope walkers and artisans, how do you support this folk art?
- The administration of the Kulinsky municipal district supports folk art and crafts in every possible way. Folklore festivals, reviews and competitions are held annually in the district. The district is proud of its famous tightrope walkers from the village of Tsovkra, known not only in Dagestan, but also beyond its borders. There is a school of tightrope walking in the village.
This year, for the third time in the village of Tsovkra, a republican festival of tightrope walkers was held, named after the famous people's artists of Russia R. Abakarov and Y. Gadzhikurbanov. And every year in the village of Khaikhi, festivals of Dagestan songs and folklore, well-known throughout the republic, are held, original and famous performers of national and pop songs of the peoples of Dagestan take part in them. These events become events in cultural life not only the region, but also the republic.
- How are your relations with the republican ministries and departments and with the leadership of the republic?
— To be honest, this question puts me in some confusion. Our relationship is regulated by law. But we are all people, and personal relationships, of course, are always important. I can say that our area is treated with sympathy and understanding. And we ourselves do not ask for more than what we really need. Of course, you always want to get a lot, but we understand that the possibilities of the republican budget are not endless. But there is another aspect of this issue: in order to enter some kind of federal or republican program, you need to be able to correctly formulate your proposals, as it turned out, everyone needs to learn this. Returning to the second part of your question, I want to note that the President of our Republic, Magomedsalam Magomedov, has always paid attention to the issues that I raised before the leadership of the Republic. And we are grateful to him for his help and understanding of the problems of our people.
— Are there manifestations of extremism and religious intolerance in your area?
“Fortunately, our region is far from the harmful actions and influences of religious and extremist groups. We conduct regular work with young people, explaining to the younger generation the consequences of the ideas that the champions of "pure Islam" preach. These issues are under constant attention and supervision of the heads of rural settlements, the district administration and the public of the district. We understand that prevention here is much more effective than the fight against ideas that will begin to take root in the minds.
Is the population of your area increasing or decreasing from year to year? How is the birth rate in your area?
“Unfortunately, there is a decrease in the population of the region. But it has nothing to do with fertility. The birth rate is within the normal range. Natural population growth in the region is observed, however, some young people leave the region in search of a better life. First of all, there is a lack of jobs, socio-cultural and living conditions (poorly developed road and transport infrastructure, problems with gasification and water supply). These and other issues are under the constant attention of the leadership of the district and local administrations, but young people want to get some new opportunities, it is wrong to keep them in the district.
— What upsets you the most, and what pleases you in your work?
- The same thing that upsets anyone else normal person. It frustrates when you can't help people. It’s frustrating when the people you trusted suddenly turn out to be completely different ... It’s frustrating when you see that a person is capable of more, and his life goes not at all where he could benefit himself, people, the republic. It's frustrating when friends you've known for years stop being friends when you have to face it.
And what pleases? It's nice to be able to help people. When you see how children grow up and become adults. I am glad when old people live long and do not lose their good spirits, they are busy with their grandchildren. It makes me happy when good deeds bring good results. We are pleased with people who, in spite of everything, live and work at an altitude of 2000 kilometers above sea level. And this good people! There are no such places anywhere else!
Group: is recruiting
Duration: 14 days
Price: 109 000 rub.
When developing this trip, we tried to harmoniously combine all the impressions that the Caucasus can give to a traveler. We chose the brightest places and people, made a very intensive program. Returning from this trip, you can rightfully say: “I saw the Caucasus!”. In all its diversity!
Seven republics, almost 2000 km. way, the maximum lifting height is more than 3700 meters above sea level. And most importantly, on this journey you will not be able to be just an outside observer: there will be trips to the mountains, craft master classes, communication with musicians, scientists and ordinary village people.
ROUTE:
September 1.
12:00 Arrival in Adler, crossing the border with Abkhazia, moving to Gagra; 14:00 Walk around Gagra, lunch; 15:00 Transfer to New Athos; 20:00 Excursions around New Athos; 20:30 Transfer to Sukhum; 23:00 Walk around the city center, dinner, overnight at the Ritsa hotel (4 *)
Walk along the Old Gagra
Decembrist writer Alexander Bestuzhev-Marlinsky, who served in the 5th Black Sea Battalion in the fortress of Gagra, wrote in June 1836: “I have been transferred to the terrible climate of Abkhazia. There is on the Black Sea coast, in Abkhazia, a depression between huge mountains. The wind does not fly there; the heat there from the red-hot rocks is unbearable, and, to complete the pleasures, the stream dries up and turns into a fetid puddle.
No one then could imagine how this place could be transformed. The resort was founded here at the beginning of the 20th century by the Prince of Oldenburg, who set out to turn Gagra into a “Russian Monte Carlo”. In 1911, the first tourists from Germany arrived here, and a year later Emperor Nicholas II himself visited Gagra.
Ascent to Anakopia
In the 5th century, the Abazgs (one of the peoples who later formed the Abkhazian nation) built a fortress on the top of the mountain. After 2 centuries, it played a decisive role in the history of not only the region, but the entire continent: the 40,000-strong Arab army tried to enter Byzantium from the rear, which was the main frontier on the way of the Arabs to Europe. At night, after the first unsuccessful assault on the fortress, the entire army was struck by a gastric epidemic. The Arab army was defeated, and the fall of Byzantium was delayed for many centuries. After the creation of the Abkhazian kingdom, Anakopia became the capital.
Even now there is something to see in the fortress - well-preserved walls and towers, a Christian church at the very top and great views on the coast.
New Athos cave
In 1961, 16-year-old Givi found the entrance to a huge cave, which was later explored by speleologists. At a depth of 135 m, the first hall was opened, and after a detailed study, the approximate volume of the cave was determined - almost 1 million cubic meters! 15 years after the discovery, the cave became a well-known landmark throughout the Soviet Union, and Givi became the director of this tourist site.
Here you can see huge halls, stalactites and stalagmites, cave lakes and even a waterfall! Inside the cave you feel the true scale of nature. To get inside you need to go on a specially built subway.
New Athos Monastery
In 1874, Russian monks from Greece arrived in the valley of the Psyrtsha River and a year later, at the foot of Mount Athos, they founded a monastery. Its construction ended after 20 years; the amount of work still seems incredible today. The landscape was significantly changed - part of the mountain was cut off and more than 1000 tons of soil and rock were removed. Some of the materials were delivered by sea from distant countries - for example, tiles were brought from Marseilles, and the clock for the main tower of the monastery was presented by Emperor Alexander III.
By the beginning of the 20th century, New Athos had become the largest religious center on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus, and it remains so to this day.
Park and railway station Psyrtsha
At the beginning of the 20th century, thanks to the labors of New Athos monks, the swampy valley of the Psyrtsha River was turned into a park with canals and a system of ponds in which mirror carps were bred. On the slopes of the mountains, the monks planted gardens: apples, tangerines and olives were grown here.
In 1942, in a difficult war time, a railway was built connecting the Russian coast with Sukhum. She was needed Soviet troops to contain the advance of German troops in the Transcaucasus. Then, after the war, the road was improved, station buildings were built - great examples Stalinist architecture - the best in the USSR. Psyrtsha station is the most beautiful of them.
Sukhum
The capital of Abkhazia is located in the very center of the country. The city is comfortably spread out in a spacious bay and is reliably protected by mountain ranges.
During the war of 1992-1993, Sukhum was badly damaged and still has not fully recovered from its consequences: even today you can find burnt buildings and bullet marks on the walls here. However, it retains the charm of the old port town. Its architectural appearance began to take shape in late XIX centuries, when large industrialists and merchants built their houses, villas and hotels here - and all in different styles! Cozy streets with old trees descend to the heart of the city - the seafront. A favorite pastime of guests and citizens here is to sip coffee in open coffee shops.
2 September. Trekking in the Abkhazian forests and gorges
09:30 Morning market in Sukhum, breakfast at the hotel; 11:00 Transfer to Zakharovka village; 12:30 Walk to Shakuran waterfall, lunch; 13:00 Transfer to the gorge of the Cold River; 16:30 Trekking to Amtkal lake and Azant dolmen; 18:30 Transfer to Sukhum; 20:00 Traditional dinner; 22:00 Trip to the thermal springs in the village of Kyndyg.Shakuran waterfall
One of the most impressive natural places in Abkhazia. This waterfall is 60 meters high. He has a rather changeable character: sometimes people come and don't see the water at all, and sometimes he becomes a roaring madness! At the same time, the gorge itself on the way to the waterfall is so beautiful that people never leave disappointed.
cold river gorge
There is a special type of landscape in Abkhazia... A cold narrow and deep gorge, overgrown with mosses and magical boxwood-hornbeam groves. Entering such a gorge, the traveler finds himself in a fairy tale.
Cold River Gorge is one of the best such places!
Azant dolmen - the highest in the Caucasus
No one knows exactly who and why built dolmens - ancient buildings from huge stone slabs. There are such people in Europe, the Caucasus, and even Africa and Korea. The most famous "relative" of dolmens is Stonehenge in England. There are different versions about the purpose of dolmens, according to one they are funerary structures, according to others they are places endowed with special powers for performing certain rituals and mystical practices. One way or another, you will have the opportunity to visit the highest dolmen in the Caucasus.
September 3rd. Sochi
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel; 10:30 a.m. Drive to the old hydroelectric power station on the Basla River; 15:00 Transfer to Sochi; 17:00 Tour of Sochi and lunch; 00:00 Transfer to Maykop, overnight at 3* hotel
Old hydroelectric power station on the river Basla
This hydroelectric power plant was built in 1905 to provide electricity to the capital of Abkhazia. Thanks to it, the central part of Sukhum was illuminated and hundreds of street lamps were lit on street corners throughout the city. Currently, only one generator is in operation, providing electricity for the station itself. All machines and sensors are still in working order, which makes the HPP an interesting living museum. The local watchman and guide - grandfather Ivan - adds flavor to this amazing place.
Sochi is the largest resort city in Russia and the longest city in Europe
The modern history of Sochi begins in 1838, during the Caucasian War, when a fort was founded here to prevent the supply of weapons to the highlanders from Turkey.
The history of Sochi as a resort begins at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1909, a Russian merchant built the first sanatorium here - "Caucasian Riviera", unique for its time and extremely popular. After civil war resort business in Sochi is developing with renewed vigor.
Walking around the city, we will see magnificent palaces built as sanatoriums for ordinary Soviet workers and collective farmers.
Black Sea Highway
Breathtaking views, steep serpentines, many tunnels and bridges. It will be a truly amazing journey!
4 September. and Karachay-Cherkessia
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel; 10:00 Short walk around the city; 11:00 Meeting with "Zhyu" - an ensemble of traditional Circassian chants and ancient instruments; 18:00 Transfer to the village of Zelenchukskaya to see the Christian church of the X century and the largest optical observatory in Eurasia; 19:00 Transfer to Arkhyz, overnight at the hotel (3*)"Zhyu" - an ensemble of traditional Circassian chants and ancient musical instruments
Circassians are a group of peoples who inhabited the western part of the North Caucasus, Abkhazia and the Ciscaucasian steppes before the Caucasian War (i.e. until 1763). The war and the period of dominance of the Soviet ideology led to the decline of the Circassian culture, but the leader of "Zhyu" makes great efforts to revive the traditional musical culture. He works with young people and leads the ensemble. And he'll be happy to meet us and give a little introduction.
Alan temple of the 10th century
Alania is a powerful and highly developed state that existed in the 6th-12th centuries on the territory of almost the entire North Caucasus, modern South Ossetia, and also occupied vast territories of the Ciscaucasian steppes.
In the 10th century, the Alans adopted Christianity. From that time on, temples began to be erected on the hills and in the high mountains.
Soviet astronomical observatory
The largest optical observatory in Eurasia. We will be able to visit the main dome and hear fascinating stories about the construction of the observatory.
September 5th. Essentuki and Pyatigorsk
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel; 12:30 Transfer to Essentuki through Maara valley and Gumm Bashi pass; 15:00 Visit to the Chaliapin Museum; 16:00 visit mineral springs; 18:00 Transfer to Pyatigorsk; 21:00 Walk to Mashuk and dinner; 23:00 Transfer to Nalchik, overnight at the hotel (3*))View of Elbrus from the Gum Bashi pass
From Arkhyz to Nalchik we will take the road through Karachaevsk. This road is laid along the valley of the Maara River and climbs the Gum Bashi pass. The famous view of Elbrus opens from the pass.
Essentuki - an aristocratic resort of the 19th century
Essentuki is a resort with history. It was a resting place for Russian officers during the Caucasian War. Later it became a great alternative to Baden-Baden and other European resorts.
6 September.
09:30 Breakfast at the hotel; 11:00 Walk around the city; 15:00 Lunch in a traditional style, the National Museum of Kabardino-Balkaria, performance by masters of the Circassian checker; 17:00 Transfer to Vladikavkaz; 19:00 Walk in the city center; 21:00 Dinner, overnight at the hotel (4*)Circassian checker
The checker is the famous bladed weapon of the Circassians. Very light, very flexible and very sharp! The saber is often compared to the Japanese katana. The mastery of the checker was almost lost, but Felix Nakov, director of the National Museum of Kabardino-Balkaria, revived the tradition and passes it on to his students.
We will meet with Felix and his students to see the Circassian checker in action with our own eyes.
September 7th.
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel20:00 Journey to the mountains
- Visit to the "City of the Dead" in Dargavs
- Walk to the Midagrabinsky waterfalls (10 km.) 22:00 Dinner in the national style and a small concert "ӃONA" - an ensemble of traditional Ossetian chants and national instruments.
Overnight at the hotel (4*).
Dargavs - "City of the Dead"
A city of crypts built during the plague in the 16th century. People who knew about their illness came here to die. Including whole families.
Now this place is one of the most interesting, frightening and impressive in the Central Caucasus.
Midagrabin waterfalls
One of the most beautiful places in the North Caucasus. There are many waterfalls in the upper reaches of the Midagrabindon River, and the highest of them is Big Zeygalan, more than 600 meters high.
"ӃONA" - an ensemble of traditional Ossetian chants and ancient musical instruments
Young people recreating ancient instruments with their own hands. They play the way their distant ancestors played and sing the ancient songs of their people. And, most importantly, they have the inspiration to share their culture.
8 September. and
09:30 Breakfast at the hotel; 18:00 Journey to the Dzheirakhsky region of Ingushetia. Tower complexes; 21:00 Transfer to Urus-Martan () and visit to the Dondi-Yurt ethnographic museum; 22:00 Transfer to Grozny, overnight at the hotel (5*)Ancient tower complexes of Ingushetia
In the Middle Ages, the Ingush were considered the best builders of towers. They were hired to build towers throughout the Central Caucasus. Many travelers say that the Ingush mountains and ancient towers that fit so harmoniously into the landscape are the best views in the North Caucasus.
Dondi-yurt
Private Museum of Adam Satuev, the most famous ethnographic museum in Chechnya. Adam built exact copies of buildings of the 18th century with his own hands: a crypt, a tower, a house with living rooms and a kunatskaya. He collected a lot of old things: clothes, utensils, weapons. During the war, he traveled to mountain villages through roadblocks to bring exhibits to his future museum. Then many considered him a madman, and now his Dondi-yurt is one of business cards» Chechnya.
9th of September. and
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel; 11:00 Walk in the center of Grozny; 12:30 Transfer to Shali, visit to the house and forge of the Yusupovs; 13:30 Transfer to Vedeno; 15:30 Transfer to Kazennoy-am lake, lunch; 20:00 Transfer to Balkhar village, overnight in a rural house.Yusupov family of blacksmiths
Kharon Yusupov, the head of the family, worked for many years to recreate the ancient technologies for the production of various grades of steel and blades. The sons of Charon continue his work. Now they are the best blacksmiths in Chechnya and work mainly for the National Gallery.
Kazennoy-am - the largest mountain lake in the North Caucasus
On the way to we will find ourselves on the lake Kazennoy-am. It is located on the border of two republics at an altitude of 1869 meters above sea level.
10 September. : Balkhar ceramics and tightrope walkers from Tsovkra-1
09:00 Traditional breakfast11:00 Pottery workshop; 15:30 Transfer to Tsovra-1; 20:30 Performance of tightrope walkers, night in a country house.
Balkhar ceramics
The last village in e, preserving the ancient pottery technique. We will see how craftswomen work and try to make vases and pots with our own hands. And, of course, we will take souvenirs with us.
Rope walkers Tsovkra-1
The meager mountainous land could no longer feed the overgrown population of Tsovkra. And then people began to leave the village to earn money for their families. They came up with the idea of doing circus performances, they became tightrope walkers. The inhabitants of the village became known throughout Central Asia, they even reached Afghanistan! They gave performances in the marketplaces and in the gardens of the kings.
In Soviet times, tightrope walkers from Tsovkra founded a whole dynasty of circus performers and became very famous throughout the USSR.
11 September. : Kubachi
09:00 Traditional breakfast; 13:00 Transfer to Kubachi; 17:00 Visit to the jewelry workshops and the museum folk art Kubachi; 20:00 Walk to Cala-Koreish - Machu Picchu; 23:00 Transfer to Derbent, overnight at the hotel (3*).Kubachi - the village of masters
Kubachi has always been a rather inaccessible village, but it was known even in Persia thanks to its craftsmen who made weapons, chain mail and jewelry.
All the indigenous inhabitants of Kubacha are hereditary masters and are very proud of it. In general, Kubachi people are very sensitive to their identity, they keep their Kubachi language (a dialect of Dargin), they marry only “their own”.
Cala Coreis - Machu Picchu
Kala-Koreish in translation means the fortress of the Quraysh - the Arab tribe from which the prophet Muhammad comes. It was founded in the 8th century as a border fortification of the Kaitags (one of the Dargin peoples), who, in alliance with the Khazar Jews, fought against their pagan neighbors. Over time, Kala-Koreish became the capital of the Kaitag Utsmiystvo, one of the most influential medieval states on the territory of the a. It is said that after the conquest by the Arabs, it was headed by a relative of Muhammad.
Now there is only a mosque with a mausoleum and one house in which the old caretaker lives.
12-th of September. : Derbent and Lezginistan
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel; 14:00 City tour, lunch; 16:00 Transfer to Miskindzha village; 18:00 Jeeping to Ehrenlar, to the highest mosque in Europe. Overnight in a mountain hotel.Juma Mosque in Derbent
The mosque was built in 733. This is the oldest mosque in Russia and all the countries of the former Soviet Union. In this place you can feel the "breath of antiquity". But at the same time, it retains its essence - it is a place for prayer.
Simple people who live in the neighborhood come here to talk about life and pray. And every Friday the mosque gathers all the Muslims of the city.
Armenian Church in Derbent
Derbent - Old city located at the crossroads of cultures. In its history there was a Christian period, now the period of Islam. So many people of different nationalities came here to trade, and of course there were many Armenians.
The Armenian diaspora built this church in the 19th century. Now here is a museum.
Naryn-kala - the ancient fortress of Derbent
A real fortress! With high walls, an ancient khan's palace and baths. The fortress was built in the 7th century and was rebuilt many times. The area is about 4.5 hectares.
September 13th. : pilgrimage to Shalbuzdag
05:00 breakfast at the hotel; 14:00 Ascent to ziyarat and descent to Kurush - the highest settlement in Europe (2600 m) and the southernmost locality Russia; 16:00 Rest; 18:00 Transfer to Akhty - the capital of the Lezgin a; 21:00 Thermal springs and dinner, overnight at the hotel (2*)Ziyarat of Sheikh Suleiman on the city of Shalbuzdag
Under the top of Mount Shalbuzdag (4142 m.) Holy place- ziyarat. There is a legend about the simple shepherd Suleiman: he lived a righteous life and when he died, white doves took his body and raised it to the slope of Mount Shalbuzdag. The people in the village realized that Suleiman was a saint, and the place where his body was found became a ziyarat.
Over the past few years, many pilgrims from all over the country have been going up to the ziyarat. AT warm months: July and August there are 500 people a day.
September 14th. Return trip
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel; 11:00 Visiting the Akhta Museum - one of the best in the region!; 13:00 Transfer to Derbent; 14:00 Lunch; 16:00/03:00 Transfer to Makhachkala/BakuCost of participation
- 4 people in a group - 125,000 rubles.
- 5 - 14 people in a group - 109,000 rubles.
- 15 - 20 people in a group - 99,000 rubles.
Supplement for single occupancy 24,000 rubles.
The price includes:
- Guide 24 hours a day
- All local guides
- Accommodation
- Nutrition
- Transport
- All tickets, master classes other
- Insurance
- Permissions to visit the border zone
The price does not include:
- Your flights to Sochi and from Makhachkala/Baku
- Personal spending
