Exploring an abandoned sanatorium

During this urbex tour, I'm exploring a 14-story building, once a bustling sanatorium during Soviet times. Today, it stands abandoned, stripped of windows and doors. Only a handful of artworks adorn the walls, serving as poignant reminders of its former glory.

Located 23 kilometers north of Yerevan, in a scenic village celebrated for its exceptional mineral water, this destination was once home to Armenia's most prestigious sanatoriums. Visitors from across the Soviet Union flocked here to relax, rejuvenate, and enhance their well-being.

The sanatorium

In the Soviet Union and post-Soviet countries, a sanatorium is a combined resort and medical facility offering short-term rest and medical services, akin to a spa resort. The history of these health resorts dates back to 1920s when the construction of the first sanatoriums started!

Inside, one can come across this wonderful fresco, seemingly created by a professional artist, still resisting the destructive forces of water and time.

Construction of the third sanatorium’s 14-story building began in 1975 and was completed nine years later. Architect: Martin Mikayelyan Engineer: Karlen Ghazaryan The accommodations were luxurious, featuring numerous recreation rooms, a swimming pool, cinema, and a cozy restaurant accessible through a covered ground passage. Adjacent to the building was a funicular connecting it to the first and third buildings.

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