Dagestan

Dagestan is a republic and federal subject of Russia, located in the North Caucasus region on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. It is part of the Southern Federal District, and its capital and largest city is Makhachkala.

The landscape is varied, with the Greater Caucasus mountains forming much of the interior and low coastal plains along the Caspian Sea. The region contains numerous river valleys and a dense pattern of ethnic villages, contributing to its distinctive geography and culture.

Dagestan is among the most ethnically diverse areas in Russia, with dozens of ethnic groups and languages. The major groups include Avars, Dargins, Kumyks, Lezgins, Laks, Tabasaran, and Rutuls. Russian is the common official language, while local languages are widely spoken. The predominant religion is Sunni Islam, mainly of the Shafi'i school, with smaller Christian communities.

Historically, Dagestan has been part of various empires and states, and came under Russian rule after the Caucasian War in the 19th century. In the Soviet era it was an autonomous republic within the RSFSR. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Dagestan has been a constituent republic of the Russian Federation. The region experienced political violence and insurgent activity in the 1990s and 2000s, but security conditions have generally stabilized in recent years.

Economy in Dagestan combines energy resources, including oil and gas, with agriculture and light industry. Tourism is developing around its Caucasian mountains, Caspian Sea coastline, and cultural heritage, drawing visitors to its landscapes, archaeological sites, and markets.