The Karachays are one of the peoples indigenous to the Northen Caucasus.
They belong to the Turkic group of peoples and are descendants of ancient tribes that inhabited the mountainous regions of the Central Caucasus.
Their language, Karachay-Balkar, belongs to the Kipchak subgroup of the Turkic languages.
For centuries the Karachays lived in the Karachay people lived in harsh mountain conditions, which shaped their hard work, resilience, and deep respect for nature.
Traditionally, their main occupations were livestock breeding, agriculture, and crafts.
Hospitality, respect for elders, and the preservation of family traditions occupy an important place in the Karachays’ life and culture.