KarachayCherkessia

The Karachay-Cherkess Republic, commonly referred to as Karachay-Cherkessia, is a federal subject of the Russian Federation located in the North Caucasus region of Southern Russia. It has the status of a republic within Russia. The capital and largest city is Cherkessk. The republic is multiethnic and predominantly mountainous, with landscapes shaped by the Greater Caucasus.

Geography comprises parts of the Greater Caucasus with valleys, streams, and high mountain terrain. The region includes areas around Mount Elbrus—the highest peak in Europe—near the border with neighboring Caucasian republics. The population is composed mainly of Karachays and Cherkess (Circassians), along with Abazins and Russians. Local languages include Karachay, Cherkess, and Russian.

Historically, the area became part of the Russian Empire in the 18th century. In 1922 it was established as the Karachay Autonomous Oblast, later renamed the Karachay-Cherkess Autonomous Oblast. The Karachay people were deported in 1943 and allowed to return in 1957. In 1991 the oblast was reconstituted as a republic within Russia. It is part of the North Caucasus Federal District.

Economy relies on agriculture, forestry, and modest industry, with tourism growing around mountain resorts and natural parks such as Dombay and the Elbrus region. The republic is divided into several administrative districts and two cities of republican significance, including Cherkessk and Karachayevsk. It hosts cultural traditions of its titular peoples, with Islam the majority faith among Karachays and Cherkess.