Soaring Eagle Stele (Supsekh)

The Soaring Eagle stele is a monument near the village of Supsekh outside Anapa, in Krasnodar Krai, also known as the "Beginning of the Caucasus Mountains" landmark. It stands where the road from Supsekh leaves the village towards Varvarovka (road 03K-101), at the point where the Kuban steppe gives way to the first foothills of the Greater Caucasus.

History

The monument was unveiled on 1 June 2013. It was created by the sculptor Vasily Polyakov together with the architect Yuri Rysin. It is one of several works by Polyakov in and around Anapa, whose sculptures have become a familiar part of the resort's look.

The site was chosen with intent. The Caucasus mountain system is said to begin near Anapa: south of Supsekh rises the Semisam ridge, one of the first low ridges at the western end of the Greater Caucasus. The stele marks this notional border between the plain and the mountains, which is why it is called a monument to the "Beginning of the Caucasus Mountains".

What to see

The composition is about three metres tall: an eagle with outstretched wings, as if taking off, sits on a pedestal. The figure is made in cold-cast bronze, which stands up well to wind, sun and sea air. The eagle was picked as the symbol of the mountains as a bird associated with strength, freedom and open space.

The stele stands on high ground, and the viewpoint by the monument looks out in three directions: over the steppe around Anapa, towards the sea, and onto the wooded hills where the mountains begin. Tourists and locals alike stop here for the view, especially at sunset, and it is a popular photo spot.

Getting there

The stele is on the edge of Supsekh. By car, drive from Anapa through Supsekh on road 03K-101 towards Varvarovka and Sukko: the monument stands by the road where it leaves the village. Suburban minibuses, including route 126, run from Anapa to Supsekh, and the stele is a short walk from the village.

Good to know

The viewpoint is open with almost no shade, so in summer it is best visited in the morning or evening. A visit takes little time, so it makes an easy stop on the way from Anapa towards Varvarovka and Sukko.