Crimea

Peninsula in Eastern Europe

Map of Crimea

Crimea is a peninsula located on the northern coast of the Black Sea in Eastern Europe. It is almost completely surrounded by both the Black Sea and the smaller Sea of Azov to the northeast. The peninsula is connected to the mainland by the narrow Perekop Isthmus.

Geography

Satellite picture of Crimea

Crimea is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes mountains, steppes, and a coastline with numerous bays and inlets. The Crimean Mountains run parallel to the southeastern coast, with the highest peak being Mount Roman-Kosh at 1,545 meters. The northern part of the peninsula is primarily flat and consists of steppes.

The climate of Crimea is predominantly temperate continental, with mild winters and warm summers. The southern coast, however, enjoys a more Mediterranean climate, making it a popular tourist destination.

History

The Siege of Sevastopol during the Crimean War

Crimea has a rich and complex history, having been inhabited by various peoples and controlled by different empires over the centuries. The ancient Greeks established colonies along the coast, and the region later became part of the Roman Empire.

In the medieval period, Crimea was part of the Byzantine Empire, and later the Kievan Rus'. The peninsula was subsequently controlled by the Mongol Empire and the Crimean Khanate, a vassal state of the Ottoman Empire.

In the 18th century, Crimea was annexed by the Russian Empire following the Russo-Turkish War. The Crimean War (1853–1856) saw a major conflict between Russia and an alliance of the Ottoman Empire, France, Britain, and Sardinia.

Modern Era

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Flag of Crimea

In the 20th century, Crimea was part of the Soviet Union and was transferred from the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic in 1954. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Crimea became part of independent Ukraine.

In 2014, Crimea was annexed by Russia following a disputed referendum, a move that is not recognized by Ukraine and most of the international community. The annexation has led to ongoing tensions and conflict in the region.

Culture and Demographics

Crimea is home to a diverse population, including ethnic Russians, Ukrainians, and Crimean Tatars. The Crimean Tatars are a Turkic ethnic group indigenous to the peninsula, and they have a distinct culture and language.

The region has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, including the ancient city of Chersonesus and the Genoese Fortress in Sudak.

Chersonesus Basilica in Sevastopol

Economy

The economy of Crimea is based on tourism, agriculture, and industry. The southern coast is a popular tourist destination due to its favorable climate and scenic landscapes. Agriculture is concentrated in the northern steppes, with crops such as wheat, corn, and sunflowers.

Related pages

• Black Sea
• Crimean War
• Sevastopol
• Crimean Tatars