Updated: 25.09.2003

Mountain range between the Black and Caspian seas, often considered the southeastern limit of Europe.

It forms two distinct chains, the Greater Caucasus in the north and the Lesser Caucasus in the south, that extend about 700 mi (1,125 km) across southern Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia.

Caucasus Mountains are of volcanic origin. Many peaks rise above 15,000 ft (4,575 m); the highest is Mount Elbrus.

It is crossed by several high passes, including the Daryal and Mamison.

It possesses considerable waterpower resources, including those of the Kura River, and valuable petroleum and natural gas reserves.