All about the rock of Diva in Simeiz (Crimea)
The beauties of Crimea attract the attention of tourists from all over the globe. One of the amazing wonders of the Black Sea coast is the rock of Diva in Simeiz. Due to its magnificent appearance, it fell into many famous films and still excites the imagination of tourists from different corners of the globe.
Where is?
The rock is located in the southwest of the Crimean coast, in the water area of the resort village of Simeiz. Its height is 51 meters. Together with a mountain called Cat Diva, it is part of a complex of natural objects that 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 limestone piece broke off from the main mountain range.
Tourists note an interesting fact - the top of the cliff resembles a female profile with her hair loose. The attraction has two official names: Diva and Jiva. The latter was appropriated by the Crimean Tatars.
It is believed that the name came 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. Diva is covered with a halo of secrets and mysteries.
Legends and myths
Initially, the mountain complex of Simeiz consisted of three rocks: Panea, Diva and Monk. The meaning of the names reveals an ancient legend. Many years ago, a gloomy hermit appeared on the peninsula. Locals treated him with caution, tried not to start a conversation and called him a Monk. In fact, a ruthless killer was hiding under the guise of an unsociable man.Evil forces did not let the sinner go and decided to find his weak spot. The devil took the form of a black cat and entered the cave of the Monk.
Taking pity on the animal, the old man let him in. One night, the devil in the guise of a four-pet, heard that the Monk in a dream calls the name of a girl. The adversary understood what the old man's weakness was. And he sent a young charming woman to him. The monk succumbed to the temptation and chased after the young maiden. At that very moment, retribution overtook him. He was petrified, and the beautiful fugitive, along with the cat, also turned into stone. So they stayed at sea.
However, today the cliffs of Monk no longer exist. It cracked during a large-scale earthquake in the late 20s of the last century, and years later, a severe storm completely destroyed it. According to another legend, once Diva was a beautiful girl, but she had a cruel and evil heart. For her sins she was turned into stone.
Characteristic
The modern natural monument is very popular among tourists and athletes. 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 high divers (they practice diving from a height). On the north side of the hill is an observation deck, which simultaneously accommodates up to 10 people.
For tourists, an amazing view of the beauty of Crimea opens: bays, beaches, islands and the sea surface. The observation deck is equipped with special barriers. Everyone wants to tie a bright scarf to them. Visitors believe that such a gesture will help them return to an amazing place.
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 keep track in a westerly direction. It runs along the cypress avenue.
- Near the cafe called "Jerzy" we turn towards the coastal strip.
- Passing a little towards the cliff of Panea, we will see the path to Diva.
Over time, vacationers paved the way to the top of an amazing cliff to enjoy the sea views. For safety, local authorities installed a staircase with a railing. 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, climbing to Diva will take 15-20 minutes. Elderly people and children will undoubtedly move even slower. But the end result is worth it! The amazing view from the cliff remains in the memory of tourists for life.
Having descended from the Diva observation deck, vacationers have the opportunity to swim in the bay located between the rocks. The water here is a turquoise hue, and the beach can be described as wild. The intoxicating aroma of juniper will allow tourists to plunge into the "paradise" atmosphere of the Crimean peninsula. This place attracts fans of diving.
Near Diva are other attractions of Simeiz:
- Panea cliff;
- Mount Cat;
- Rock Swan Wing.
Just with Paney, you can see all the power and beauty of Diva. According to excavations, a monastery was located on a cliff in the Middle Ages. Later it was rebuilt for defense needs. The ruins of this fortress can still be seen.
Mount Cat located near Diva is known for its stone torso. Relict trees that are listed in the Red Book grow on the mountain. In ancient times, people considered this hill sacred. Not far from it is the rock Swan Wing. The name of the hill was invented by tourists, since outwardly it commemorates the wing of a proud bird. Both mountains are natural monuments.
You can see the beauty of the diva cliff further.
