Syanovskie are a system of artificial caves near Moscow. This quarry is the largest in the Moscow region and the fifth largest in Russia. Previously, it was a site for extracting building materials for the construction of fortresses and churches in white-stone Moscow. The caves date back to the 17th century. Now, the length of the underground tunnels and shafts is about 20 kilometers, previously it was much larger — about 90 kilometers, and the depth is 25-30 meters. There is a unique culture and specific rules here; caution and utmost attention are necessary. The Syanovskie caves are the most popular in the region. For over 20 years, hundreds of enthusiasts have been coming here. Experts have developed detailed maps of the underground passages and even so-called attractions. There is an improvised temple, a designated dining area, and even something akin to a sleeping area, as the bravest stay in the caves for several days to a few weeks. The true fans of these places call themselves "systemniks," and the quarries themselves a "system." "Cat's Pass" is the entrance to the caves that was excavated after all the accesses were sealed for safety reasons. It doesn't look very presentable, but it is safe — consisting of several concrete rings with a ladder installed inside. Above the structure, there is something like a bus stop. Today, "Cat's Pass" remains the only entrance to the underground labyrinths, although two others are marked on the maps but remain unopened. To ensure your safety during a cave expedition, first, make sure to choose an experienced guide. The main difficulties you might encounter in the Syanovskie are narrow passages and branched routes. To avoid getting stuck and lost, you will need an accompanying guide. At "Cat's Pass," there is always a logbook, and it is mandatory to record the start and end of your visit. As you navigate through the underground labyrinths, try not to hit your head on the ceilings. Removing stones from the cave vaults is prohibited. In spring, during the flood season, emergency services staff monitor the caves to ensure that the wet soil does not behave unpredictably. Several mysterious stories in the Syanovskie are connected to Dvulikaia. Who is she? If the stories are to be believed, she is the mistress of the Syanovskie. A woman with two faces: one of a young girl and the other of an old woman. There's also another interpretation, one side woman, the other side man. She can show the traveler both faces or just one. Dvulikaia's appearance is always accompanied by a glow. It is believed that she can lead the lost or punish those who litter, make fires, and behave disrespectfully in the Syanovskie. If you happen to see a person lying in a gas mask on a suspended "bed," don't be surprised; it's Aristarh — a suit filled with clay. He is also the keeper of the caves. Entrance to the caves is free, and that's not by accident but a rule. The Syanovsky quarries have an active and constantly updating community . I can't say that confined spaces deep in the earth inspire me greatly, but you must agree, it's interesting! Even in the caves near Moscow, located between the villages of Starosyanovo and Novlenskoe, you can climb and feel like an explorer. Incidentally, the Syanovsky quarries appeared as early as the 17th century, where limestone was extracted for the construction of churches. Unfortunately, in 2020, a group of children got lost here, who were found after an hour, but after this incident, official tours were closed.