Loading images, please wait...
Originally designed as a humble romantic hideaway, the breathtaking location of the Swallow's Nest on the Aurora Cliff near Yalta, Crimea has been the setting for a number of films. The existing structure, dating from 1911/12 is the latest in a line of decorative neo Gothic castles and is the emblem of this part of the Crimean coastline.
An earthquake measuring between 6 and 7 caused serious damage in 1927 and opened a threatening crack in the cliff which meant that the building had to be declared unsafe. The building lay almost derelict for 40 years until 1968. Considerable reconstruction work has taken place to restore the building and rebuild the cliff itself.
The castle itself is now used as an Italian restaurant and has recently undergone considerable expenditure. Although a less romantic use, the location 130ft (40m) above the Cape Ai-Todor still offers spectacular views across the Black Sea and toward the Yalta coastline. In 2011 it provided the location for the final event in the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series.
