Elbrus is a dormant volcano, which means it is not currently erupting but it has erupted in the past - the last time was about 2,000 years ago. The mountain is covered by 22 glaciers, which are slow-moving rivers of ice that creep down its slopes over hundreds of years. The glaciers feed rivers that flow down to villages and farms in the valleys below.
The Caucasus Mountains where Elbrus sits are full of wildlife. Snow leopards, mountain goats called tur, and eagles all make their homes on the rocky slopes. The lower meadows burst into colour in summer, filled with wildflowers. Many climbers travel to Elbrus every year hoping to reach the summit; there is even a cable car that helps people get partway up the mountain.
Local people living near Elbrus are called Balkars and Karachais, and they have lived in these mountains for many centuries. They have their own language, music and traditions. The mountain is very important to them, and it features in their folk stories and songs as a powerful, ancient giant watching over their homeland.