Balaclava is an administrative district on the south-east of Sevastopol, the name of Balaklava in Turkish means 'Fish Nest' (Balyk-luv).

Balaclava is located in a beautiful harbour, somewhat resembling a fjord in Norway. According to some scientists the description of Balaclava harbour also resembles the description of 'Listrigons Port' visited by old Greek hero Odyssey.

Balaclava has everything - unique nature, mountains Fiolent and Aya, romantic ruins of Genovese Chembalo fortress, mysterious ancient cathedrals, and, of course the Black Sea!

Balaclava hosts the biggest underwater submarines repair factory in former Soviet Union. The factory was built in 1956-1961 to provide a repair facility and a shelter to more than 3000 people and 20 submarines in case of a nuclear war.

Until 1993 the factory was also used as storage of nuclear weapons. Now you can make a tour around this factory for a small fee.

Balaclava (and Sevastopol) is the best place to start exploring Crimea!