Trough-shaped dolmen Phabguchel-6 (full complex)

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The ancient dolmen lies hidden beneath the rugged Mezetsu cliffs, part of the Phabguchel group of monuments, nestled within the Mezetsu range in Russia's Tuapse region, within the Caucasus mountain range. This mysterious stone tomb dates back to the Middle Bronze Age (4000-2000 BC), a time when the Dolmen Culture of Caucasus flourished. Perched atop a stone cairn, the dolmen rests upon a foundation with remnants of a retaining wall still intact. The sepulcher chamber is meticulously carved out of a single massive block of stone, showcasing its trapezoidal shape and impressive structure. A flat stone slab serves as the roof, cleverly replicating the design elements of a plinth-type construction. A unique feature sets this dolmen apart from others: an access hole strategically placed on one side wall, allowing for a distinctive entrance. The largest wall of the construction is adorned with a false portal, complete with an imitation access hole created by a protruding stone knob. Another remarkable aspect is the beautifully crafted shelf carved into three walls within the chamber. This enigmatic structure stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient civilizations in the Caucasus region.