SEARCH RESULTS

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Armenia’s Lori Region on this 2-day hiking and sightseeing adventure. Designed for beginners and those seeking to combine exploration with light physical activity, this tour features easy trails and visits to some of Armenia’s most renowned cultural and historical landmarks. < Back 2-Day Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Armenia's Lori Region Discover the breathtaking beauty of Armenia’s Lori Region on this 2-day hiking and sightseeing adventure. Designed for beginners and those seeking to combine exploration with light physical activity, this tour features easy trails and visits to some of Armenia’s most renowned cultural and historical landmarks. Day 1: Journey to Kayan Fortress, Haghpat, and Sanahin Monasteries Starting Point: Yerevan (170 km to Lori Region) Highlights: Kayan Fortress, Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) We begin our journey from Yerevan with a scenic drive to Lori Region. After covering a distance of 170 km, we’ll pause for a coffee break before starting our hike to the historic Kayan Fortress. Kayan fortress from the top of adjacent cliff Kayan Fortress Trail Kayan Fortress is a historic site strategically located between the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries. This imposing structure is perched on a ridge between two canyons overlooking the Debed River. Spanning approximately 120 meters in length, the fortress features 15 semi-circular defensive towers. Camping in the territory of Kayan Fortress The trail to Kayan Fortress is about 1.5 km one way and takes less than an hour to complete. Within its boundaries lies the Dsevank Monastery, referred to by the historian Arakel Davrizhetsi as “Tes yev ants” (“See and pass by”). Aerial photo of Haghpat Monastery After the hike, we’ll visit the architectural marvels of Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, dating back to the 10th century. Accommodation: Overnight stay in a cozy hotel in the Lori Region. Personal recommendations are available, but alternative options are always welcome. Day 2 we will start with a visit to Odzun church Day 2: Odzun Church and Horomayr Monastery Hike Starting Point: Hotel in Lori Region Highlights: Odzun Church, Horomayr Monastery We start the day with a visit to the beautiful Odzun Church, a gem of early medieval Armenian architecture. Following this, we embark on a hike through the captivating Lori Gorge, offering some of the most stunning views in Armenia. Enjoying the breathtaking views of the Lori Gorge! Lower Horomayr Monastery is nestled at the base of the cliffs Horomayr Monastery Trail Horomayr Monastery is a remarkable medieval complex located 1.5 km southeast of Odzun village. Built during the 12th and 13th centuries, the monastery consists of two distinct groups of monuments: Lower Horomayr Complex: Nestled on the left bank of the Debed River, under a dramatic hanging rock. Upper Horomayr Complex (Dzoraezri Monastery): Perched on the edge of the valley. In the right corner of the image, you can see the Lower Horomayr Complex The trail to the lower complex spans 2km and takes approximately 1 hour one way. The hike is an out-and-back route, offering awe-inspiring views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes. After completing the hike, we will begin our return journey to Yerevan, stopping at a cozy food court for a lunch break. We expect to arrive in Yerevan around 6:00 PM. Alternatively, we can take the Yerevan-Sevan highway and include a visit to the Sevanavank Monastery on the way back. Tour Details Included in the Price: Pick-up and drop-off in Yerevan Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle Professional guide service Not Included: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be arranged for an additional fee) Hotel stay; the tourists are also covering the cost of my one-night hotel stay Tour Price: Group of 1–4 people — 190,000 AMD (≈ 430 Euro). Hotel accommodation is not included in the price. For larger groups, please contact us for customized pricing. Project Gallery You May Also Like Suren, the hiking guide in Armenia 1-Day Hiking Tour to Lastiver from Yerevan Best One-Day Hiking Tours from Yerevan A Hiking Adventure to Mount Tesilk and its Mysterious Cave 2-Day Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Armenia's Lori Region Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail 1-Day Hike to Mount Ara Hiking tour to mount Yeranos

Join my guided hiking tours to embark on unforgettable adventures, exploring the best hiking trails in Armenia! Answer the call of adventure travel in Armenia! Hiking in Armenia Thanks to active promotion on social media, Armenia, once a hidden gem, now shines with renewed brilliance, emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for tourists. The country's diverse terrain offers a wide range of outdoor adventures, including hiking tours, suitable for explorers of all levels. Join me on guided hiking and trekking tours in Armenia, where we’ll climb Mount Aragats, the highest peak in the country, or delve into the depths of its deepest caves. Traverse the ancient trails of Dilijan National Park or venture into the rugged beauty of the Geghama Mountains. Experience the rich cultural heritage as you hike to monastic wonders like Sanahin or the mysterious Tatev Desert, or feel the sense of security within once impregnable fortresses. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous journey or a peaceful retreat, my tour packages to Armenia are designed to offer unforgettable experiences. Unleash your inner adventurer and discover the captivating charm of Armenia’s hiking trails on my expertly guided tours. Explore Armenia like never before with tours that connect you to the heart of this ancient land. 1-Day Hike to Mount Ara Embark on a thrilling hiking adventure to Mount Ara, an extinct volcano located at the border of the Kotayk and Aragatsotn regions of Armenia, southeast of Mount Aragats. With a height of 2,577 meters, Mount Ara offers not only breathtaking views but also a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity and geological history of Armenia. Read More 1-Day Hiking Tour to Lastiver from Yerevan Join a guided hiking tour in Armenia and explore the enchanting fairy-tale haven of Lastiver, hidden deep within the forested banks of the Khachaghbyur River, just 3 kilometers from Yenokavan village. This easy, year-round hike offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Read More 2-Day Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Armenia's Lori Region Discover the breathtaking beauty of Armenia’s Lori Region on this 2-day hiking and sightseeing adventure. Designed for beginners and those seeking to combine exploration with light physical activity, this tour features easy trails and visits to some of Armenia’s most renowned cultural and historical landmarks. Read More A Hiking Adventure to Mount Tesilk and its Mysterious Cave Mount Tesilk, standing at 1372 meters high, may not be a popular hiking destination for tourists due to its distance from Yerevan. However, among Armenian hiking groups, it is quite popular and promises to leave an unforgettable impression. Read More Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail Discover the Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail, an ideal destination for hiking in Armenia, located a convenient 45 km from Yerevan. This scenic trail is perfect for all-season hiking, offering beautiful landscapes for spring, summer, autumn, and winter treks. Learn about the reservoir's history, its impact on local villages, and the fascinating submerged church. Choose between the Big Loop and Small Loop, both winding through picturesque pine forests and alpine meadows. Get your local hiking guide and embark on a memorable outdoor adventure – a top choice for eco-tourism in Armenia and a fantastic day trip from Yerevan. Read More Best One-Day Hiking Tours from Yerevan This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best one-day hiking tours from Yerevan, Armenia's capital. These private, guided tours are designed for your convenience, typically beginning early in the morning at around 7:30 AM and concluding back in Yerevan by 6:00 PM. I invite you to explore the hiking destination that excites you most and book your adventure. To arrange a tour with Armenian Explorer, simply scroll to the bottom of the page to find my contact information. Read More Climbing Aragats: A Hiking Tour to the Southern Summit Join me on a guided hiking tour to the Southern Summit of Mount Aragats. Mount Aragats has four summits, each named according to its geographical location, and the Southern Summit provides the easiest route to the top. Departing from Yerevan, our trip covers 60 km one way, and in just about 1 hour and 10 minutes, we will reach an elevation of 3,200 meters. Here, the hike begins at the scenic Lake Kari (known in Armenian as Քարի լիճ / Stone Lake), one of the main starting points for Aragats trails. On the way to the Southern Summit, we will stop at the intriguing Aragats Gravity Hill, where you can experience an optical illusion that seems to defy the laws of physics. Read More Climbing mount Azhdahak Join me for a guided hike to the highest summit of the Geghama Mountains and conquer Mount Azhdahak. Trek through breathtaking landscapes, meet nomadic Yazidi shepherds, and explore the ancient Azhdahak petroglyphs—mysterious rock carvings that have survived for thousands of years. With a moderate difficulty level, this hike is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking high-altitude trekking. For a longer adventure, it can be combined with a multi-day Geghama Mountains trek, including camping under the stars near Mount Azhdahak. Read More Hiking tour to Smbataberd Fortress Smbataberd – Tsaghats Kar – Zorats Monastery is for those who want to discover rich Armenian cultural heritage on their hiking trail. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy this guided tour since there are many historical monuments to discover and the diverse terrain is hiking friendly! Read More Hiking tour to Tghit cyclopean fortress Step off the map and explore a cyclopean fortress that few people have visited. Though still a non popular destination I personally see a huge potential in this trail and consider it to be one of the best hikes an outdoor adventurer can take! Join my guided tour, discover and experience Armenia. Read More Hiking tour to mount Yeranos If you are looking for a hike in Armenia with a breathtaking view towards mount Ararat or Azat reservoir then mount Yeranos trail is for you! Get your guide and travel to one of the most wanted destinations in Armenia! Read More One-Day Hike from Yerevan: Climb Mount Aragats with a Guide This comprehensive Mount Aragats hiking tour itinerary invites you to climb all 4 summits of Armenia's highest mountain, Mount Aragats. We offer flexible options, allowing you to choose which Aragats summit to climb based on your physical fitness and desired challenge. Within this Armenia trekking guide, you'll find detailed technical information and trekking details for each of the four Aragats peaks presented separately. For the ultimate Aragats climbing adventure, including a 2 day hike with camping at night to conquer all four peaks of Mount Aragats at once, I am are ready to create a customized itinerary for you! Read More Suren, the hiking guide in Armenia I’m Suren, a hiking guide in Armenia. I provide guiding services for travelers of all levels, along with camping and trekking experiences, whether for private tours or large groups. I organize and lead all tours myself, supported by a professional team during larger trips — guides, drivers, and cooks. In this article, I want to share important advice and explain how we organize our hikes, as I can see you’re planning a visit and a hike in Armenia. Read More

Your outdoor adventure and sightseeing tours in Armenia start with "Armenian Explorer." Connect directly with your guide for the best hikes, trekking expeditions, off-road journeys, and urbex tours. Immerse yourself in Armenia’s rich history, from ancient Bronze Age megalithic sites to Soviet-era modernist architecture. Together, we’ll trek to Azhdahak volcano, conquer Mount Aragats, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, abandoned Soviet buildings, the iconic ROT54 telescope, and more. Planning a tour to Armenia? Your outdoor adventure starts right here on my website Anchor 2 I’m Suren — a local guide in Armenia If you are planning to travel to Armenia and need a local guide, my website is for you! Armenian Explorer offers the opportunity to contact your guide directly, discuss upcoming events, or create a personalized tour package with customizable itineraries. I provide hiking tours that showcase Armenia's stunning landscapes and popular destinations like Mount Aragats and Mount Azhdahak. Additionally, I offer unique urban exploration tours of abandoned Soviet buildings, perfect for those eager to explore the unknown. These tours can also be combined with off-roading and cultural experiences, tailored to your interests. Contact me directly through the number provided at the bottom of the website to discuss your trip and customize your experience. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or historical exploration, I’m here to make your visit to Armenia unforgettable. About Me Anchor 1 Hiking in Armenia As an experienced guide in Armenia, I offer personalized hiking tours for all levels, from beginners to experienced hikers. Whether you want to conquer Mount Aragats, the highest summit in Armenia, or explore the popular but easier Mount Azhdahak, I provide memorable adventures. I offer both private and group tours to match your interests and skill level. Join my guided tours to experience Armenia’s stunning landscapes and have an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Urbex Armenia As a professional urbexer with 5 years of experience, I guide tourists into the world of urban decay. During our urban explorer tours, you will discover abandoned Soviet sanatoriums, planes, factories, Soviet monuments with otherworldly beauty, abandoned copper mines, telescopes, culture houses, and more. These locations are perfect not only for urban exploration photography but also for those seeking a memorable experience filled with excitement and a bit of adrenaline. Popular Tours in Armenia Discover the best tours in Armenia, showcasing iconic landscapes and hidden gems. Whether it's conquering Mount Aragats, exploring the volcanic beauty of Mount Azhdahak, or delving into abandoned Soviet-era sites, my guided tours offer unparalleled adventure. For water enthusiasts, try sup-boarding in Armenia's serene lakes, or for thrill-seekers, enjoy the excitement of off-roading through rugged terrain. As your dedicated guide in Armenia, I ensure each tour is unforgettable, tailored to your interests and skill level. Blog In the blog section of my website, you'll find in-depth articles covering the most sought-after topics related to Armenia. From the most popular hiking destinations to the creepiest abandoned buildings, these posts offer valuable insights into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of our country. I also share stories of daring travelers and mountaineers whose adventures have left a lasting impact on me. Whether you're planning a visit or simply curious about this fascinating land, my blog offers a wealth of information to fuel your wanderlust.

This section of my website, Urbex Armenia, can serve as a useful tourist guide for those who want to explore the abandoned side of Armenia! Explore abandoned factories, pioneer camps, culture houses and more in Armenia with an experienced urban explorer! Urbex Armenia After the collapse of the Soviet Union, numerous industrial plants, hotels, pioneer camps, culture houses, cable car stations, and other establishments fell victim to looting or succumbed to the ravages of time. Over the years, the inexorable passage of time has bestowed upon these sites an air of mystery and allure, making them increasingly appealing to tourists interested in urbex decay and abandoned places. Join my guided urbex tours as we explore these hauntingly beautiful remnants of Armenia's past. Within this section of my website, you will discover a multitude of abandoned locations in Armenia that I have personally explored and which now await your discovery. Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery In this article, I’ve selected some of the most memorable photos I took during our urbex tours in Armenia. These images show how our tours really happen, what places we visit, and the atmosphere you can expect on the road. By joining my tours, you become part of a growing community of travelers who explore Armenia’s abandoned places together. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs During one of our urbex expeditions, we explored an abandoned rest house hidden deep in the forest. In Soviet times, it was a popular retreat for Ministry of Transport employees and was known as Narine. Today, the complex is slowly deteriorating, but it is currently for sale and awaiting an owner willing to invest and restore its former glory. Read More Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Earlier, I dedicated several articles to destroyed bas-reliefs and statues in Armenia. These articles still attract strong interest, drive steady traffic to my website, and help bring forgotten masterpieces back into public view. Today’s article focuses on another crucial layer of Soviet monumental art: the destroyed mosaics and frescoes of Armenia. Read More Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia This article explores Soviet-era bus stops in Armenia—structures that have miraculously survived into modern times, though many are damaged, neglected, and largely forgotten by locals. Today, cars rush past at high speed, and passengers barely notice these roadside sculptures. Only a handful of travelers who truly appreciate Soviet architecture stop to photograph them, leaving curious onlookers to wonder—“Why are they taking pictures? Spies, perhaps?”. These bus stops are silent witnesses of the era, built for the most monotonous task imaginable: waiting for a bus. Yet their designs are anything but boring, reflecting the bold creativity of the Soviet Union. Read More The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory During one of my many visits to Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory—where I regularly guide visitors—I asked Henrik Sargsyan, the observatory’s oldest staff member, to show us the 53 cm Schmidt telescope. Sargsyan has worked at BAO since 1958. Warm, generous, and deeply devoted to science, he gladly agreed. Seeing yet another instrument that shaped modern astronomy was pure joy. Read More A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House In this article, I briefly cover the history of Futuro houses, their appearance in the Soviet Union, and a unique replica that has survived to this day—resembling an alien spaceship and inviting travelers to stop, step inside, and take a short break after a long drive. Read More The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia In this article, I present one of Armenia’s most distinctive Soviet-era architectural landmarks—the Chayka monument. You’ll learn why it provoked Khrushchev’s anger, how it defied official Soviet ideology, and how it still stands today as a rare example of clever engineering and artistic expression that outlived strict political doctrine and the test of time. Read More Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna This article is dedicated to this giant antenna, known as Orbita, which is located in Armenia and was once part of the vast Soviet satellite communication network. For decades, it played a key role in receiving television signals from Moscow and distributing them across the region. Today, the antenna stands as a powerful reminder of an era when satellite technology first made it possible to connect distant parts of the Soviet Union through television and radio broadcasts. Read More A Soviet-Armenian Soldier’s Album Found During an Urbex Tour A rare Soviet-era soldier’s album discovered during an urbex tour in Armenia. Photographs and hand-drawn illustrations offer an intimate look into military service, everyday life, and personal memories of a Soviet-Armenian conscript from 1981 to 1983. This is raw, uncensored micro-history—not propaganda, not official archives, but real soldier life seen from the inside. Read More A Visit to a Soviet-Era Aviamodeling School in Armenia This article takes you to one of the Soviet-era aviamodeling schools still operating in Armenia. The school has never undergone renovation and remains almost unchanged, like a time capsule—a living museum that continues to function to this day, with children still attending classes. The article also provides a brief overview of the role and purpose of aviamodeling schools in the USSR, including their development in Armenia. Read More Exploring a Perfectly Preserved Soviet Knitwear Factory In this article, you’ll learn about a perfectly preserved Soviet-era knitwear factory. Spread across two floors, it remains largely untouched and filled with original knitting and sewing machines, ironing equipment, Soviet posters, an armored safe with original banknotes, and many other items typical of factories of that era. This place is a true time capsule and a must-visit site for any urbex enthusiast. Read More The Abandoned Observatory I Spent Years Searching For In this article, you’ll learn about a little-known abandoned observatory in Armenia, perched high in the mountains and wrapped in mystery due to its unclear past. Read More An abandoned amphitheater in Armenia In this article, you’ll discover a little-known Soviet-era amphitheater, now abandoned. Explore how these spaces evolved over centuries while preserving classical architectural traditions. A hidden gem for urban explorers and enthusiasts of forgotten Soviet-era architecture, this site offers a rare glimpse into Armenia’s theatrical past. Read More A Remarkable Soviet-era Bas-Relief in Gyumri Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri, is known not only for its distinctive pre-Soviet and Soviet architecture but also for its long-standing blacksmithing traditions. It’s no surprise that in 2023 this tradition was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Today, though, we’re looking at another part of Gyumri’s cultural landscape — Soviet-era monumental art, specifically a 1977 bas-relief created by sculptor Ferdinand Araqelyan. Read More The Friendship of Nations Monument in Gyumri Across the Soviet republics, monuments, fountains, mosaics, and other massive art pieces dedicated to the “friendship of nations” were everywhere. They promoted the idea of unity among peoples, and many shared a standard, copy-paste design across different republics. One such monument stands in Gyumri — and its story is far more complicated than it seems at first glance. Read More Exploring a 19th-Century Abandoned House in Armenia Shvanidzor is located about 400 km from Yerevan and 11 km northeast of Meghri, just a kilometer from the Arax River, at an altitude of 600–700 meters. Once home to around a thousand people, it now has roughly 280 residents, and the local school teaches only 20 children. Time seems to stand still in this village, where historic buildings quietly bear witness to the past. Today, we’ll explore one of these architectural gems: a 19th-century house in the village. Read More Inside One of the Most Impressive Culture Houses in Armenia Shvanidzor feels like a place time forgot — quiet, sunburned, tucked into the reddish slopes of the Meghri region. The village sits about 11 km northeast of Meghri town and only a kilometer from the Arax River, resting at 600–700 meters above sea level. Once home to around a thousand people, today Shvanidzor has barely 280 residents. The local school has just 20 students. Life here runs slow and steady. But the village hides some serious architectural surprises. Today we will talk about the famous “Shvanidzor culture house”. Read More Inside Levon’s Divine Underground Explore Levon’s Divine Underground in Arinj, Armenia — a mysterious hand-carved cave created over 23 years by one man, Levon Arakelyan. Discover his incredible story, the cave’s intricate chambers, and how his legacy continues through his family today. Read More Top Railway Stations to See in Armenia Explore Armenia’s top railway stations, both active and abandoned, each showcasing remarkable architectural design and rich history. From Yerevan’s elegant mid-20th-century hub to Gyumri’s stunning Soviet modernist masterpiece, Vanadzor’s museum-like interior, Alaverdi’s unique frescoes, and the abandoned Meghri station with its eery atmosphere, these stations tell the story of Armenia’s railways and cultural heritage. Perfect for travelers and history enthusiasts, this guide highlights the beauty, artistry, and significance behind each remarkable station. Read More A Soviet-era sanatorium with forgotten masterpieces In this article, I want to introduce another abandoned sanatorium that conceals beautiful ceramic bas-reliefs and a mesmerizing interior design. Out of caution, I won’t share exterior photos — not because I don’t have them, but because I don’t want to make the location too easy to find. In recent years, several heritage sites have suffered vandalism after being popularized online, often by attention-seeking TikTokers. A small request to fellow explorers: if you discover new places, share them responsibly. Publish photos in a way that doesn’t reveal exact locations, so that future urbexers can also experience these treasures. Read More Inside a Soviet-Era Crystal Growth Lab When I visited the institute, I saw a room filled with crystal growth furnaces. To me, they looked more like forgotten artworks than old scientific machines. Rows of cylindrical chambers with heavy bolts and pipes stood in place, humming softly as water trickled through their cooling systems. This article aims to shed light on these marvelous machines which, thanks to their high quality, are still operating and producing crystals Read More The Soviet “Raketa” boats of Lake Sevan I traced the iconic Raketa boats of Lake Sevan to find out where they are resting now. This article sheds light on their story and final resting places. Once highly popular among visitors, these hydrofoils became one of the true symbols of Lake Sevan. Read More The Soviet-Era Sanatorium in Armenia Built by German Prisoners of War On my urbex tours in Armenia, I often take travelers to one particular Soviet sanatorium — a place that feels like a true time capsule. Remarkably, it is still operating today, combining striking architectural design with a range of healing procedures. While we usually focus on the exploration side and don’t take part in the treatments, those who are curious can certainly arrange to experience them. Read More The ZTA-2.6 Telescope at Byurakan Observatory Earlier I wrote about the 1-meter Schmidt telescope at the Byurakan Observatory. Today I want to focus on another giant of Armenian and Soviet science — the ZTA-2.6 telescope. For anyone interested in Soviet technology, scientific tourism or into urbex adventures, this site is a true hidden gem. And yes — you can explore it on my urban explorer tours across Armenia. Read More Exploring a Soviet-era abandoned driving school in Armenia We stepped inside and found ourselves in a remarkably well-preserved Soviet driving school. The interior felt like a time capsule—walls lined with posters on mechanization, civil defense, traffic regulations, and even diagrams of various firearm mechanisms. Scale models and early driving simulators sat quietly, untouched for decades, telling the story of an era when driving education went far beyond simply learning to operate a vehicle. This article sheds light on this fascinating place, offering a glimpse into a unique piece of Soviet history. Read More We Explored a Giant Refractory Brick Factory During this urbex mission, we explored a massive Soviet-era refractory brick factory. The site was so big it took hours to cover — and even then, some sections remained unexplored. This article aims to document our exploration and offer a glimpse into how this industrial giant, rich with history, stands today. Read More Cemetery of Firefighting Trucks During one of my explorations, I came across a hauntingly beautiful graveyard of firefighting trucks tucked away in Armenia. These machines, which once roared to life to battle hundreds of fires and save countless lives, now stand silent and weathered—like retired heroes left to rest. Through my photos, I aimed to immortalize their legacy and pay tribute to these rugged Soviet-era workhorses. Read More The Forgotten Computers of a Soviet-Era Factory Inside an abandoned textile factory in Armenia, I stumbled upon something unexpected: rows of old computers, a large auditorium, and a Soviet mosaic. While I'm usually drawn to monumental Soviet art, this time the computers completely stole the show. They looked like nothing I'd ever seen before—and strangely, even a Google image search didn’t turn up anything similar. Read More Near the Armenian–Iranian border stands a beautiful, abandoned train station It was already getting dark when we reached this abandoned train station, and the atmosphere left a deep impression on me. Standing there, the iconic statue of a young girl caught my eye—her graceful hand gesture, once holding a pigeon, now seemed to highlight the eerie beauty of this forgotten place. In this article, you’ll discover the history, development, and decline of this remarkable site. Highly recommended for urbex photographers and history enthusiasts visiting Armenia. Read More Inside a Cold War-Era Soviet Bunker Hidden in Armenia Deep beneath the forests of Armenia, I explored an abandoned Soviet bunker — frozen in time. Built during the Cold War to withstand a potential nuclear strike, it now lies silent, rusting, and eerie. Once a highly classified location, it's been forgotten by time, drawing in urban explorers and military history enthusiasts alike. Read More This Abandoned Restaurant Hides A Forgotten Masterpiece Tucked away in a crumbling building off an uneven road, this abandoned restaurant holds a stunning secret — a clay bas-relief by renowned Armenian ceramist Eduard Beroyan. What was once a vibrant space now lies forgotten, but the artwork still clings to life. Join me on an urbex adventure that uncovers beauty where no one’s looking — in the dust, silence, and shadows of decay. Read More Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Just a short drive from the center of Yerevan, in what used to be the city’s outskirts in 1960s, stands something few would expect from a small mountainous country better known for ancient monasteries and volcanic peaks: a particle accelerator. Yes, Armenia has its own chapter in the history of high-energy physics. Welcome to the Yerevan Physics Institute Synchrotron, also known as YerPhI (ЕРФИ - Ереванский физический институт) or officially, the A.I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory—a quiet but powerful remnant of Soviet science. Read More The Cemetery of German POWs in Gyumri In this article, you will learn about the cemetery of German war prisoners in the Slabotka district of Gyumri, where their memory is honored by visitors from Armenia, Germany, and beyond. Read More Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Together with G. Mattu, with this article, we aimed to compile and document the destroyed bas-reliefs in Armenia, created by monumental artists during the Soviet era. Once integral parts of the country's cultural and architectural landscape, these works of art have been lost to time, metal scavengers, vandalism and neglect. Through this collection, we hope to preserve their memory and reflect on their historical and artistic significance. Read More The Destroyed Statues of Armenia Shifts in ideological paradigms, political caprice, the desire to break away from a totalitarian past, and acts of vandalism led to the dismantling or destruction of many monuments associated with communist ideology and beyond. This process accelerated after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. In this article, we will explore the statues that once adorned Armenia, only to be lost to history. Read More Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Carlus, a traveler from Spain, joined my urban exploration tour in Armenia, during which we explored abandoned places and iconic Soviet-era locations in a Lada Niva he rented locally. This tour was especially nostalgic for me, as our family car was a red Niva, bringing back fond memories. Our journey took us from an abandoned cultural house to the Byurakan Observatory, the ROT54 telescope, abandoned pioneer camp, other Soviet-era sites, and eerie, abandoned copper tunnels, uncovering some of Armenia’s most hidden gems. Here is a brief overview of our tour. Read More This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Discover the history of the 1-meter Schmidt telescope, originally commissioned by Adolf Hitler as a gift to Mussolini. After World War II, it was seized by the Soviets and later installed at Armenia's Byurakan Observatory in 1960. This telescope played a key role in the discovery of Markarian galaxies and contributed to significant astrophysical research until its decommissioning in 1991. A modern reconstruction project is now in progress. Read More Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro We explored the abandoned section of the Yerevan Metro, starting with calming down some aggressive dogs and sneaking through a narrow gap. It was an unforgettable and unusual experience for me—my first time ever inside a metro tunnel. As someone who has always loved traveling around Yerevan by metro, stepping into its unfinished depths felt surreal. The damp smell, eerie atmosphere, and the promise of capturing some truly unique photos made it all worthwhile. Read More Abandoned Culture Palace of Kanaker Aluminium Factory – KANAZ The Kanaz Culture Palace, built in 1958, served as a vibrant hub for the Kanaker Aluminium Factory. Designed by architects Sos Manukyan and Vilen Tonikyan, it features Armenian architectural elements, sculptures by Grigor Badalyan, and striking Armavir tuff stone. Despite its rich heritage, the building has faced decades of neglect. Although restoration plans were announced in 2019, as of 2024, it remains closed and untouched, awaiting revival. Read More Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This article provides a glimpse into an extraordinary urban explorer tour I led in Armenia with Damien, a talented French photographer. We spent an unforgettable week together, discovering the remnants of Armenia’s Soviet-era past, and his creative perspective left a lasting impression on me. Read More Lenin in Armenia During the Soviet era, Armenia, like other Soviet republics, was rich in the imagery of Vladimir Lenin. Statues, busts, mosaics, frescoes, and posters featuring the leader of the October Revolution were everywhere, symbolizing the USSR's ideology and governance. However, after the Soviet Union's collapse, Armenia’s new authorities moved swiftly to dismantle these Soviet relics. One of the first and most notable statues to be removed was Lenin’s monument in the Republic Square, yet parts of it have surprisingly endured to the present day. Let’s explore what has survived. Read More Urban Explorers Are Fascinated by This WWII Memorial Soviet WWII monuments, found throughout former Soviet republics, honor the immense sacrifice and heroism of soldiers during the Great Patriotic War. Often featuring dramatic sculptures of soldiers, tanks, and eternal flames, they symbolize the victory over Nazi Germany. These monuments serve as enduring tributes to Soviet resilience, commemorating the millions who fought and died for the Soviet Union and shaping the region's collective memory and post-war identity. In Armenia, every city and almost every village has a monument dedicated to WWII. Some have gained popularity among urban explorers and photographers over time. Here is one of them: Read More Hammer and Sickle: The Most Iconic Soviet Symbol The hammer and sickle, a symbol that defined the Soviet Union and became synonymous with communism, carries a powerful historical and ideological meaning. This iconic image, consisting of a crossed hammer and sickle, represents the unity of industrial workers and agricultural laborers, embodying the vision of a classless society built on collective labor. Its appearance on flags, public buildings, and monuments reinforced the Soviet state’s identity and spread its influence globally. Read More Jesus Statue in Armenia In 2025, Armenia is set to unveil the world's tallest statue of Jesus Christ, an impressive monument that will stand atop Mount Hatis in the Kotayk region. The statue, initiated and funded by businessman Gagik Tsarukyan, will be 33 meters tall and sit on a 44-meter pedestal, bringing its total height to 77 meters. This will surpass the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (98 feet (30 meters) tall, and 2,340 feet (713 meters) above sea level ). Positioned at an altitude of 2,528 meters, the statue is expected to become a significant tourist attraction in Armenia. Read More From Duga Radars to Intercontinental Radio Rebroadcasting Station in Armenia This narrative takes you on an urban exploration mission to a Soviet-era intercontinental radio station in Armenia, intertwined with an unexpected discussion about the Duga radar. Discover the site’s historical significance, its role in Cold War-era broadcasts, and its current enigmatic state. Read More Iconic Soviet Statues and Monuments in Armenia Explore the rich tapestry of Soviet art with this guide to Soviet monuments and statues in Armenia. From the statue of Hayk Nahapet to the statue of Vladimir Lenin, discover how these landmarks reflect the artistic and ideological spirit of their time. Journey through history with iconic Soviet monuments and experience a unique blend of cultural heritage and artistic expression. Perfect for anyone interested in tours in Armenia and exploring its remarkable artistic history. Read More Tsovinar: The Iconic Soviet Monument of Hrazdan This striking Soviet monument, officially named "Long Live the Blue and Clear Sky," stands on the shores of Aghbyurak Reservoir in Hrazdan city. When the reservoir level rises, the statue is partially submerged, creating a striking visual effect that further emphasizes its connection to the water and its mythological significance. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Cable Car Station This abandoned cable car station is a captivating destination for urban exploration enthusiasts. The stunning views from the station and the intricate machinery inside draw urbexers from around the world. Join my guided tours in Armenia to explore this historic site, now lying in ruins. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Copper Mine Join my guided tours in Armenia to explore an abandoned copper mine. We’ll cross adrenaline-pumping bridges and venture into tunnels that promise an unforgettable experience and incredible photo opportunities. Read More Aramyants's Abandoned Mansion - A Glimpse into Urbex Decay and Tours in Armenia During my urbex tours in Armenia, particularly in the Lori region, one of our must-see stops is the abandoned mansion of Armenian philanthropist Mikael Aramyants in the town of Akhtala. This mansion, with its rich history and architectural beauty, offers a unique glimpse into Armenia's past and is a key attraction on my urban exploration tours in Armenia. Let's delve into the story of this remarkable place. Read More The Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia I have visited many libraries in Armenia, but this one impressed me the most with its extensive collection of technical literature. Unfortunately, the Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia will be closed due to a highly criticized decision by the Armenian Government. Read more in the article. Read More The Abandoned Culture Palace of Jermuk City Explore the abandoned Culture Palace of Jermuk, an architectural masterpiece by Martin Mikayelyan. A haven for urbexers and urban photographers, this ghostly building with its rich history, intricate sculptures, and vast interiors offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Read More This Culture House Hides Busts of Lenin and Shahumyan and a Gorgeous Fresco Inside this cultural house, we discovered busts of Lenin and Shahumyan, along with a huge fresco created in 1965 by the Armenian artist R.S. Mnatsakanyan. Read More Soviet modernist buildings in Armenia Armenia, a country with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage, boasts an intriguing blend of architectural styles. Among these, the Soviet modernist buildings stand out as bold expressions of a unique period in the nation's architectural and political history. Constructed primarily during the second half of 20th century, these structures reflect the ideals and aesthetics of Soviet modernism, which sought to combine functionality with innovative design. Read More Exploring the Abandoned Armenian Scientific Institute of Livestock Breeding and Forage Production While exploring abandoned buildings in Armenia, we discovered a looted institute with two striking bas-reliefs and remnants of research on livestock and animal nutrition. This site once played a vital role in advancing Armenia's livestock industry, focusing on animal quality and forage production. Read More Gyumri Railway Station: A Bright Example of Soviet Modernist Architecture Explore Gyumri Railway Station, Armenia's oldest rail station, known for its Soviet modernist architecture. Established in 1897, it connects Gyumri to major destinations. The station features unique design elements and serves as a historical landmark, reflecting the city's vibrant cultural heritage. Read More A Visit to Mikoyan Brothers' Museum Nestled amidst the picturesque village of Sanahin, Armenia, lies the Mikoyan Brothers' Museum, dedicated to two brothers who left an indelible mark on Soviet history. This museum honors the remarkable achievements of Anastas Mikoyan, a prominent politician who rose through the ranks of the Soviet government, and Artem Mikoyan, a brilliant aircraft designer who co-created the legendary MiG fighter jets. Read More Karen Aghamyan's Mesmerizing Mosaic Inside “Zangak” Bookstore Karen Aghamyan's "Progress" mosaic, created in 1983, is a well-preserved and even restored work of art. It is located inside “Zangak” book store on Komitas avenue, Yerevan, and I personally find it to be one of the best mosaics of the Soviet period. Read More This culture house in Apaga village features an amazing fresco Explore Apaga Village's rich cultural heritage and its iconic House of Culture, featuring the monumental "Sasuntsiner" fresco by Sargis Muradyan. Read More My Favorite Metal Bas-Reliefs in Armenia Bas-reliefs, a form of sculpture where figures are slightly raised from a flat background, have been used throughout history to commemorate events, celebrate cultural achievements, and propagate political ideologies. During the Soviet era, these artistic expressions were extensively employed across the Union, including in Armenia, to convey the principles and triumphs of socialism while also decorating buildings to create an inspiring atmosphere. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Cinema Behind the thick vegetation, an old and mysterious-looking building stood. An abandoned cinema from a bygone era, a silent sentinel amidst the mineral springs and modern resorts. Read More Top Abandoned Places in Armenia Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, numerous industrial plants, hotels, pioneer camps, cultural centers, and other establishments fell victim to looting and the ravages of time. Over the years, these sites have acquired an air of mystery and allure, making them increasingly appealing to tourists. In this article, I have selected the top abandoned places in Armenia that I have personally explored and documented, now awaiting your discovery. Read More This abandoned culture palace hides a nice mosaic Discover the remnants of Gyumri's cultural heritage by visiting this abandoned Palace of Culture, featuring the iconic mosaic Dance of Sassoon by Ferdinand Manukyan. Despite the building's decay, this artistic gem endures, capturing the essence of a bygone era. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Soviet Driving School The Soviet Union, known for its rigorous and systematic approach to education and training, established a comprehensive network of driving schools to equip its citizens with the necessary skills to navigate the country’s extensive road network. These driving schools were not merely institutions for learning how to operate a vehicle; they were an integral part of the Soviet education system and preparation for army service, reflecting the values and priorities of the era. This article will provide a brief overview of what driving classes and posters looked like in the USSR. Read More Soviet mosaics in Armenia Soviet-era mosaics in Armenia are remarkable relics that offer a vivid glimpse into the country’s artistic and cultural heritage. Created mostly in the second half of the mid-20th century, these intricate works of art reflect the social, political, and ideological narratives of the time. Today, they stand as vibrant testimonies to a complex past, blending traditional Armenian motifs with Soviet symbolism. Read More The largest Russian church in Armenia Discover the Church of Saint Arsenius in Gyumri, Armenia's largest Russian church. Built in the 1870s, this historic landmark, now an abandoned church in ruins, boasts a unique design and continues to attract visitors from around the world. Read More Exploring a Giant Thread Factory Discover the history and nostalgia of a giant Soviet-era thread factory, where original machinery and rare Armenian safety posters remain intact. Experience the thrill of seeing the machines in action and explore parts of the factory that have been modernized in recent years. Read More A Visit to the Northern Bus Station The Northern Bus Station, located on the outskirts of Yerevan towards Abovyan, is a masterpiece of regional modernism designed by Armen Aghalyan and Vardan Avetisyan. Despite its damaged roof and half-empty state, this 1988 architectural gem continues to attract architecture and photography enthusiasts. Discover its unique blend of historical and modern design. Read More Another Abandoned Plane in Armenia Since my earlier post about the abandoned plane located in Ashtarak generated significant interest, with many using my article as a guide to visit that location, here's another post dedicated to an abandoned plane. This time, we are heading to the shore of Tsovinar Lake to see an abandoned Tu-134 plane. Read More The Iron Fountain in Gyumri Despite being abandoned and surrounded by scattered garbage, this rusty iron fountain in Gyumri continues to attract visitors from around the world. Why? The answer is simple: its creator was a visionary architect whose works looked futuristic for their time and still hold a remarkable allure, even in decay. This unique fountain, with its otherworldly design, captivates everyone who sees it — and it’s the kind of sight that easily goes viral online. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Carpet Factory This giant carpet factory, once bustling with thousands of workers and boasting a capacity to produce 1 million cubic meters of carpet annually, now stands desolate, serving as a solemn reminder of its once illustrious past. The machinery is now being sold for scrap, casting a shadow over its former glory. Read More The abandoned Children's Railway in Yerevan Explore the historic Yerevan Children's Railway nestled in the picturesque Hrazdan gorge. Established in 1937, this 2.1 km railway features iconic stations like "Motherland" and "Pioneer." Discover its rich history, from its inception to present-day plans for renovation and revitalization. Experience a piece of Armenia's railway heritage. Read More We saw a huge fresco inside this culture house While on an urbex mission in the Aragatsotn region, Armenia, we visited this village to see their culture house! It didn’t disappoint, as inside, we saw a huge fresco! Read More This abandoned factory once produced electrical components Within the ruins of this Soviet factory lie hidden artworks, which you will discover in this article as we embark on an exploration! Read More World War II Memorials In Armenia Explore Armenia's World War II memorials, honoring the bravery of its people. These monuments serve as poignant reminders of sacrifice and valor, standing as a testament to their bravery and unwavering dedication to their country. Read More 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. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Sanatorium Built by German Prisoners of War This abandoned sanatorium in Armenia is one of several buildings constructed by German prisoners of war. It not only has a fascinating history but also striking architecture that draws urban explorers from around the world. Let’s take a look inside this remarkable place — despite being looted, it has preserved surprisingly much and left a strong impression on me. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Glass Factory We received information from a local stalker that there is a fascinating fresco inside this abandoned glass factory! The time has come for exploration... Read More How to Urbex – A Beginner’s Guide Are you someone who has seen photos or videos of abandoned buildings on the internet and wishes to witness them firsthand? Then welcome to the urbex community! This article can serve as a useful guide to those who want to start urbexing! Here we jump over the wall. Read More Exploring an abandoned Soviet sanatorium Join my guided urban explorer tours to uncover a fascinating time capsule from the Soviet era. Once a thriving sanatorium offering a distinctive combination of leisure and medical services, it now stands as a relic of history, preserving the essence of a bygone era. Read More Exploring an abandoned clock factory Explore the rich history of the Yerevan Clock Factory, founded in 1943. From stylish alarm clocks to commemorative timepieces, discover the legacy of innovation. Read More Exploring an Abandoned Thermal Power Plant Once again, I find myself on an urbex mission. This article serves as a brief reflection on my exploration of the abandoned thermal power plant. It marked my inaugural experience inside such a structure, leaving me profoundly impressed. Read More A Soviet sports complex frozen in time Explore the intriguing story of a sports complex frozen in time, constructed over a decade from 1975 to 1986 with the ambition of becoming the largest sports structure in the region. Read More A Soviet Culture House in High Modernist Style This cultural house in Armenia serves as a portal to the Soviet past, unveiling a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Remaining unrenovated, it has retained its original appearance, becoming a unique relic from the past that attracts urban explorers worldwide. Read More Aragil Restaurant in Victory Park "Aragil" is an abandoned building in Victory Park, Yerevan, not far from the "Mother Armenia" monument. Since it sits atop a high hill, it offers a picturesque view of Yerevan. Unsurprisingly, it draws urban explorers, and some budget travelers even pitch tents to spend the night! Read More Exploring the Gagarin Statue and Nearby Abandoned Factories After exploring the Gagarin statue in Gagarin village and the local culture house (strangely inside I found no artworks), we delved into nearby abandoned factories. Experience our journey through photos, with a focus on Soviet warning posters that provide a captivating glimpse into the historical context of these industrial spaces. Read More Exploring an abandoned Soviet culture house This abandoned Soviet Culture House in Armenia, with its crumbling facade, ghostly interiors and magnificent frescoes serves as a poignant reminder of a chapter in history that has shaped the collective memory of our nation. Today, this site is featured as a key destination in my urban explorer tours in Armenia. Read More A stunning culture house in Armenia The time has come! I am now making a visit to one of the most stunning cultural houses in Armenia! This building, built in Soviet times, is an architectural masterpiece and can leave a lasting impression on urban explorers! Read More Inside Abandoned House During an urbex exploration in the Ararat region of Armenia, we spotted this intriguing house in the distance and couldn't resist the urge to explore its mysteries! Read More Exploring an Abandoned Hotel This abandoned hotel hides one of the most amazing mosaics one can see in Armenia! A paradise for art lovers and urbex photographers! Read More Abandoned Village Old Khot - Armenian Machu Picchu Old Khot, also known as Hin Khot, is often referred to as the Armenian Machu Picchu due to its resemblance to the Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. Discover this mysterious ghost village hiking along Vorotan Gorge. Read More ROT54 or the Herouni Mirror Radio Telescope In Armenia’s Orgov village, at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level, stands the iconic ROT54—an engineering marvel designed by Paris Herouni that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. Its giant scale surprises everyone, offering views toward Tegher Monastery and the biblical Mount Ararat. The control rooms feel like scenes from a Stanley Kubrick film, while the nearby Arev solar thermal power station—built during Armenia’s 1990s energy crisis—adds even more mystery to the place. This site is a must-visit for anyone interested in the scientific history of the Soviet Union. Now abandoned, it remains a striking testament to Armenia’s Soviet-era scientific legacy and a highlight of my urban explorer tours. Read More A Soviet Culture House Frozen in Time A visit to this culture house promises a journey into the Soviet past, revealing the charm of old movie projectors, vintage posters, a captivating fresco, and exquisite stage curtains! Join my guided tours for unforgettable impressions. Read More Inside the Abandoned Culture House of Physics Institute This abandoned culture house amazed me with the posters I saw inside! So far, I have explored many abandoned buildings, but this one was really good! Take a look at Soviet posters and more that we found! Read More Exploring an abandoned shoe factory in Armenia While on an exploration mission in the Syunik region with G. Mattu, we decided to explore this shoe factory as well. It had a guard, probably living nearby, whom we managed to convince to let us in, and he kindly showed us around. Read More Exploring an abandoned school in Armenia A true time capsule, this school, built in 1901 with the support of Gaspar Ter-Margaryan, has left an indelible mark. Unlike many abandoned buildings in Armenia, this architectural marvel remains untouched, thanks to the efforts of the locals who have preserved its rich history. Despite the school's closure in 2010, its cultural significance lives on, with hopes for restoration to transform it into a museum. Read More Exploring An Abandoned Factory In Armenia While exploring abandoned buildings in Armenia, we entered this factory where we saw a fresco of Lenin, many rusty buses, and picturesque posters on 'Civil Defense' and 'Road Safety Rules'! Urbexing in Armenia can reveal lots of interesting stuff about the country's rich industrial history! Read More Deep in the Woods We Discovered This Soviet Pioneer Camp Few urban explorers visit this abandoned place in Armenia! We stepped in to explore and found out that not much is left! Only bare walls and a few paintings... Read More Armenian Statue "Arshaluys" In Vogue Magazine This is a story of one Armenian statue on the Yerevan-Sevan highway, and how it found fame through a Vogue photoshoot with model Jerry Hall. Read More Discover a Soviet Time Culture House in Armenia This abandoned Soviet-Armenian culture house offers a thrilling architectural design which urban explorers will definitely appreciate! Read More Abandoned Yak-40 Plane in Armenia Discover Armenia's aviation history as we tour the Yak-40 aircraft, once a part of Armenian Airlines, now resting in Ashtarak city. Explore and take awesome pics in there... Read More I Explored the Abandoned Soviet Pioneer Camp “Fairy-Tale” This abandoned pioneer camp in Armenia is among the best-preserved I’ve ever seen. As you wander through its grounds, now overgrown with trees and vegetation, you’ll come across striking relics of the past — from grand mosaics to statues of iconic figures like Buratino and Medz Mher. The true centerpiece, however, is the swimming pool — remarkably intact and decorated with mesmerizing Soviet-era mosaics. Join me on this urbex journey as we step into the forgotten world of Armenia’s Soviet past. Read More Discovered an abandoned Soviet-era culture house in Armenia This abandoned culture house in Bjni has some of the most amazing frescoes I ever saw. Read More A rare Soviet poster I discovered in Yerevan This is one of the largest Soviet posters that has made its way into modern days! A wanted gem for urban explorers... Read More An abandoned culture house in Armenia with wonderful frescoes This is a culture house from Soviet period which every urban explorer should see! A great relic for those who want to explore the "abandoned side of Armenia" and love artworks! Read More A visit to Alaverdi train station The historic Alaverdi train station stands out not only for its unique architectural design but also for the remarkable frescoes painted in the 1960s by Rudolf Khachatryan. These artworks have become a cultural attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. Today, the station is also a fascinating site for urban exploration and a prime spot for urbex photography. Read More Sevan Writers’ Rest House - Soviet Modernist Architecture in Armenia Perched on the shores of Lake Sevan, on the Sevan Peninsula, the Sevan Writers’ Rest House is a striking example of Soviet modernist architecture. Built during a wave of cultural and architectural innovation in the USSR, it still draws curious travelers from around the world. While exploring the Sevan Peninsula, stop by for a coffee, admire the bold design of the iconic Lounge Building, and take in the sweeping views over the lake. Read More Exploring an abandoned chemical factory in Armenia This abandoned Soviet-era factory in Armenia had a lot to offer! Two notable things we discovered during this urbex tour were a unique fresco and a 'Lenin, Engels, Marx' mosaic. Read More An urbex tour to an abandoned pioneer camp Few urban explorers have visited this Godforsaken place, we were lucky to find it. An abandoned pioneer camp perched deep in the woods made a huge impression... Today, it is one of the destinations included in my urban explorer tours. Read More

This article explores Soviet-era bus stops in Armenia—structures that have miraculously survived into modern times, though many are damaged, neglected, and largely forgotten by locals. Today, cars rush past at high speed, and passengers barely notice these roadside sculptures. Only a handful of travelers who truly appreciate Soviet architecture stop to photograph them, leaving curious onlookers to wonder—“Why are they taking pictures? Spies, perhaps?”. These bus stops are silent witnesses of the era, built for the most monotonous task imaginable: waiting for a bus. Yet their designs are anything but boring, reflecting the bold creativity of the Soviet Union. < Back Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia This article explores Soviet-era bus stops in Armenia—structures that have miraculously survived into modern times, though many are damaged, neglected, and largely forgotten by locals. Today, cars rush past at high speed, and passengers barely notice these roadside sculptures. Only a handful of travelers who truly appreciate Soviet architecture stop to photograph them, leaving curious onlookers to wonder—“Why are they taking pictures? Spies, perhaps?”. These bus stops are silent witnesses of the era, built for the most monotonous task imaginable: waiting for a bus. Yet their designs are anything but boring, reflecting the bold creativity of the Soviet Union. Earlier, I wrote about the iconic Chayka monument and the story of how, during his 1961 visit, Nikita Khrushchev was shown this monument and became angry, referring to Resolution No. 1871, which harshly criticized prevailing architectural practices and accused designers of wastefulness and an obsession with decorative forms at the expense of function and economy. In this article, dedicated to Soviet bus stops in Armenia, I want to refer back to that episode and ask how, after this incident, architects and designers across the entire Soviet Union continued creating bus stops that can hardly be called humble or practical, but instead were extravagant, eye-catching, and striking. The "Chayka" monument today On 4 November 1955, the Soviet government issued Resolution No. 1871, officially titled “On the Elimination of Excesses in Design and Construction” (Об устранении излишеств в проектировании и строительстве). The decree was officially issued and signed by Nikita S. Khrushchev, Secretary of the Central Committee of the CPSU, and Nikolai A. Bulganin, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR. A sketch of a bus stop by Armenian architect Rafael Israelyan. Renowned for incorporating the eagle symbol into many of his architectural works, Israelyan found a place for it even here — proudly positioned at the very top of the structure. Just imagine this concept brought to life — a small roadside stop turned into a striking piece of symbolic architecture. This landmark document marked a sharp break with Stalin-era monumental architecture, calling for a focus on functionality over form. The most famous result of this decree was the Khrushchyovka—the ubiquitous four- and five-story gray apartment blocks seen across Eastern Europe today. Millions of families received their own private apartments with indoor plumbing and kitchens for the first time. Since bus stops were considered Minor Architectural Forms (малые архитектурные формы), they fell into a regulatory loophole. According to Soviet architectural handbooks (such as Svidersky’s Small Architectural Forms , 1953), MAFs were divided into two categories: Utilitarian: benches, trash cans, street lamps, and bus pavilions (автобусные павильоны) Decorative: sculptures, fountains, and flower vases Because bus stops were classified as “pavilions” rather than “buildings,” they were governed by less stringent aesthetic regulations. While a five-story apartment block had to be approved by central housing authorities to ensure that no money was “wasted” on decoration, a bus stop was often handled by the Ministry of Transport or regional road departments. Methodological Recommendations for the Design of Bus Stops. Moscow, 1975 Moreover, most Soviet-era bus stops we see today were built during Leonid Brezhnev’s reign (1964–1982). It was during this period that government-issued design handbooks were released—the first in 1975, followed by another in 1988. Clause 3.18 from Methodological Recommendations for the Design of Bus Stops (Moscow, 1975) states the following: When designing bus stops, special attention should be given to contemporary architectural solutions that reflect the climatic, local, and national characteristics of the area. Bus stops should serve as the compositional focal point of the road’s architectural ensemble. The planning layout of the bus stop, pavilion structures, exterior finishes of stop elements, minor architectural forms, landscaping, and lighting should be compositionally integrated with the surrounding environment. The walls of enclosed and semi-enclosed pavilions should preferably be made of transparent materials on the side facing the approaching bus and the roadway, to ensure good visibility. Bright coloring of pavilion details, the construction of boarding platforms, sidewalks, and pedestrian paths using slabs and materials of varying size, shape, and color, as well as minor architectural forms reflecting national and local character—all of these should be employed in the artistic design of bus stop areas. This is a truly unique bus stop. It not only functions as a bus stop but also conceals an underground passage beneath it Ursula Schulz-Dornburg and the enduring photographs she created The first foreigner to pay serious attention to Soviet-era bus stops in Armenia after the collapse of the Soviet Union was that Düsseldorf-based Ursula Schulz-Dornburg. Her photography project, widely known as “Transit Sites, Armenia” or “Bus Stops in Armenia,” produced between 1997 and 2004, possesses an enigmatic power that far exceeds its time and place of origin. The Museum Ludwig in Cologne has since acquired this series. A Soviet-era bus stop in Armenia, photo by Ursula Schulz-Dornburg Here is an excerpt from her interview. “I was on a trip that was actually supposed to take me to all the ancient monasteries and convents in Armenia, from north to south and east to west. Then, to my complete astonishment, I saw one of these bus stops in the middle of nowhere. With the woman waiting there, it looked exactly like a Visconti movie. This became my most reproduced motif. The strange, oversized canopy echoes the traditional shape of Armenian church roofs. In the Soviet era, it was not possible to build new churches, so perhaps this form was an ironic response to Soviet restrictions.” Christopher Herwig: The Hunter of Soviet Bus Stops While Ursula Schulz-Dornburg was the first to view these structures through a “metaphysical” and almost spiritual lens in the late 1990s, Christopher Herwig is the one who transformed Soviet bus stops into a global phenomenon. His journeys across the Soviet Union, including Armenia, were extensive, resulting in two books that document the bus stop explorations he dedicated around 15 years to. A bus stop in Vanadzor, year 2016, photo by Cristopher Herwig Today, these books serve as records of a bygone era, living witnesses of the past, especially considering that some of the bus stops have already been destroyed. Christopher Herwig (2002–2017) Soviet Bus Stops (2015) Soviet Bus Stops: Volume II (2017) My Quest The documentary Soviet Bus Stops (2022), dedicated to Christopher Herwig’s quest to document Soviet bus stops, ends with the following quote by Osip Mandelstam:“ My turn shall also come; I sense the spreading of a wing .” Only three or four bus stops in Armenia still feature mosaics. This is one of them. As a local urbexer familiar with Armenia, I’ve taken on the task of documenting all the Soviet bus stops in my country. What may seem like an easy job is actually quite challenging. Hundreds of kilometers must be traveled to reach them, and people waiting for a bus aren’t always eager to appear in photos. The sun may be in the wrong position, or a poorly parked car can ruin the shot. Then comes the painstaking selection process—dozens of photos must be taken just to find one that satisfies me. In my case, I’m rarely satisfied, often returning multiple times to capture the perfect image. I’m always asking myself whether a person should appear in the image—a question I still don’t have a clear answer to. Then I try it both ways. Sometimes, to emphasize the size of a monument or a bus stop, it’s helpful to include a person standing nearby. The bus stops that survive in Armenia today were built from concrete or metal, sometimes incorporating wooden elements such as cladding or benches. While much of the USSR relied on poured concrete, Armenia in some cases used its local volcanic stone—tuff. My quest continues, and this year I plan to finally document all the bus stops in Armenia. As Osip Mandelstam said: “ My turn shall also come; I sense the spreading of a wing .” Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Explore Armenia's rich history and architectural marvels like Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, and other UNESCO sites on guided sightseeing tours with Armenian Explorer. Sightseeing Tours in Armenia Armenia, a country steeped in history and ancient traditions, offers a unique opportunity to explore its stunning landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Join Armenian Explorer for personalized sightseeing tours that immerse you in Armenia's rich past. From ancient cyclopean fortresses and the iconic Garni Pagan Temple to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the first Christian cathedral, and the world’s tallest statue of Jesus Christ, immerse yourself in Armenia’s rich heritage. Discover its vibrant traditions, festive celebrations, and exquisite cuisine. Whether you're passionate about history, Soviet-era architecture, or seeking to experience Armenia's breathtaking landscapes, our expertly curated sightseeing tours provide an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of this fascinating country. Garni-Geghard & Sevanavank Day Sightseeing Tour This one-day tour covers some of Armenia's most iconic landmarks – must-visit sites for every traveler exploring the country. The journey takes you from ancient pagan history to the dawn of Christianity and the 9th century, when the Sevanavank Monastery was founded. We’ll visit the Garni Pagan Temple, the only surviving Greco-Roman colonnaded temple in the post-Soviet region, followed by the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, famous for its rock-hewn churches and deep spiritual heritage. According to tradition, the Holy Lance – believed to have pierced Christ’s side during the crucifixion – was once kept here. Finally, we’ll head to the Sevan Peninsula to explore the 9th-century Sevanavank Monastery and admire the sweeping views of Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes. Read More Day Tour to Sevanavank, Dilijan & Parz Lake Discover some of Armenia’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations on this full-day guided tour from Yerevan. This tour combines breathtaking lake views, medieval monasteries, forest trails, and authentic Armenian charm — perfect for travelers who want to see both culture and nature in one day. Read More Guided Sightseeing Tour to Garni Pagan Temple & Geghard Monastery This tour, widely known as the Garni-Geghard tour, is one of Armenia’s most popular sightseeing experiences, offering a captivating journey from ancient pagan history to the dawn of Christianity. Located just a short drive from Yerevan, these landmarks provide a perfect opportunity to explore Armenia’s rich cultural heritage. On this tour, we’ll visit the Garni Pagan Temple, a striking example of Hellenistic architecture and the only surviving pagan temple in the post-Soviet territory. We’ll also explore Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its remarkable rock-hewn architecture and spiritual significance. The monastery was home to the Holy Lance, which, according to tradition, was brought to Armenia by the Apostle Thaddeus and kept there for centuries. Read More

Discover Armenia's aviation history as we tour the Yak-40 aircraft, once a part of Armenian Airlines, now resting in Ashtarak city. Explore and take awesome pics in there... < Back Abandoned Yak-40 Plane in Armenia Discover Armenia's aviation history as we tour the Yak-40 aircraft, once a part of Armenian Airlines, now resting in Ashtarak city. Explore and take awesome pics in there... In Ashtarak city lies a remarkable relic from the country's aviation history. The Yak-40, is an intriguing sight for urban explorers looking to explore Armenia's past and present. This particular Yak-40, produced in Saratov in 1977, shares its roots with the iconic Yak-40s that once graced the skies. At the outset, it was entrusted to the Armenian Department of the USSR Ministry of Civil Aviation, where it proudly bore the designation USSR-88256. As Armenia gained independence, this aviation marvel found a new home in the fleet of Armenian Airlines, embracing its Armenian identity as EK-88256. Yak-40 plane as seen from "Van Lake" restaurant! In 1997, as technology advanced and the aviation landscape evolved, the Yak-40 gracefully retired from active service. However, its story was far from over. In the early 2000s, this aviation relic found its final resting place in Ashtarak, where it remains today. Travel to Armenia and take a moment to tour the Yak-40, a symbol of Armenia's journey in the skies. Discover Armenia's aviation history as you explore this magnificent aircraft, a testament to the country's enduring connection with the world of flight. You can find the coordinates of the Yak-40 plane on my Telegram channel. https://t.me/armenianexplorer_ru/28 Importat: When visiting the plane choose the road from the side of Mesrop Mashtots Street otherwise if you go to Van Lake restaurant, from there you can’t pass the gorge and get to the plane! Discover another abandoned plane by reading this article: Another Abandoned Plane in Armenia I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

During one of our urbex expeditions, we explored an abandoned rest house hidden deep in the forest. In Soviet times, it was a popular retreat for Ministry of Transport employees and was known as Narine. Today, the complex is slowly deteriorating, but it is currently for sale and awaiting an owner willing to invest and restore its former glory. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs During one of our urbex expeditions, we explored an abandoned rest house hidden deep in the forest. In Soviet times, it was a popular retreat for Ministry of Transport employees and was known as Narine. Today, the complex is slowly deteriorating, but it is currently for sale and awaiting an owner willing to invest and restore its former glory. A narrow road led us uphill through dense woodland and worn asphalt. At the end of the road, a multi-storey building emerged among tall trees. We parked nearby and walked up a cascade that once echoed with flowing water. Above the entrance, a distinctive metal bas-relief decorates the façade. Photographing it properly was difficult, as surrounding trees partially obstruct the view. Passing through a narrow opening, we entered the building and encountered a surprisingly well-preserved interior. The site is secluded from public access and mostly guarded, which has protected it from vandalism. The interior left a strong impression. Uniqely designed ceilings, red curtains, and chandeliers form a cohesive architectural ensemble. In the kitchen, a large bas-relief covers an entire wall, depicting several female figures—one holding a harp, another grapes. The rest house also features a cinema hall with an especially atmospheric interior. Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Soviet WWII monuments, found throughout former Soviet republics, honor the immense sacrifice and heroism of soldiers during the Great Patriotic War. Often featuring dramatic sculptures of soldiers, tanks, and eternal flames, they symbolize the victory over Nazi Germany. These monuments serve as enduring tributes to Soviet resilience, commemorating the millions who fought and died for the Soviet Union and shaping the region's collective memory and post-war identity. In Armenia, every city and almost every village has a monument dedicated to WWII. Some have gained popularity among urban explorers and photographers over time. Here is one of them: < Back Urban Explorers Are Fascinated by This WWII Memorial Soviet WWII monuments, found throughout former Soviet republics, honor the immense sacrifice and heroism of soldiers during the Great Patriotic War. Often featuring dramatic sculptures of soldiers, tanks, and eternal flames, they symbolize the victory over Nazi Germany. These monuments serve as enduring tributes to Soviet resilience, commemorating the millions who fought and died for the Soviet Union and shaping the region's collective memory and post-war identity. In Armenia, every city and almost every village has a monument dedicated to WWII. Some have gained popularity among urban explorers and photographers over time. Here is one of them: This World War II monument was erected in 1973 through donations from the workers of the Kirovakan (now Vandzor) chemical factory. It was officially opened in 1975 on the 30th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. Main architect: Rafik Boshyan. Architects: Boris Kocharyan, and Ashot Kanayan. Sculptors: Zhirayr Ketikyan, Ara Sargsyan, Mehrab Mirzakhanyan (Master Mehrab) Having a person stand near the monument provides a valuable reference, allowing viewers to better appreciate its scale in photographs During my urban explorer tours in the Lori Region, we stop at this WWII monument, which has become a must-visit destination. Travelers consistently praise its significance and beauty, capturing memorable photos that make it a true highlight of the tour. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

This abandoned culture house in Bjni has some of the most amazing frescoes I ever saw. < Back Discovered an abandoned Soviet-era culture house in Armenia This abandoned culture house in Bjni has some of the most amazing frescoes I ever saw. While culture houses in the Soviet Union shared a similar architectural style, their interior design could vary depending on the country. Following a period of relaxed repression and censorship known as "The Khrushchev Thaw" (which spanned from the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s due to Nikita Khrushchev's policies of de-Stalinization and peaceful coexistence with other nations), artists began to decorate these culture houses with elements from their own national cultures. Although these expressions of national identity were seen as nationalistic and were not always welcomed by Moscow, they marked the resurgence of art and freedom of expression. The facade of the culture house! Looks futuristic... not bad for Soviet times... In Armenia, artists drew on the nation's rich history, depicting heroic scenes from Armenian epic poems and history. Many of these artworks have survived to the present day. The author of this huge fresco is honored Armenian artist Henrik Siravyan. It’s called "History and Present" and was created in 1975. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Behind the thick vegetation, an old and mysterious-looking building stood. An abandoned cinema from a bygone era, a silent sentinel amidst the mineral springs and modern resorts. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Cinema Behind the thick vegetation, an old and mysterious-looking building stood. An abandoned cinema from a bygone era, a silent sentinel amidst the mineral springs and modern resorts. This is a uniquely preserved cinema in Armenia that has survived to the present day in its original form, allowing visitors to see what buildings like this looked like decades ago. The building was designed by architect Hovhannes Babajanyan and constructed in 1951. Babajanyan was also the architect of the first cinema in Echmiadzin, which is now part of the National Gallery of Armenia. This building is a modern example of a three-nave basilica with exterior columns on the main façade and side walls. Unlike this cinema, the Echmiadzin cinema building does not have an external colonnade, but it is also designed in the basilica style; niches are located at the front of the Echmiadzin cinema. The single-auditorium cinema comprises two floors and a basement, with a main hall designed to accommodate 180 spectators. Hidden behind the trees the abandoned cinema was like inviting me in The exact reason for its closure remains shrouded in mystery. Perhaps the collapse of the Soviet Union, changing cultural trends, the rise of television, or a decline in tourism led to its demise. Whatever the cause, the doors of the cinema eventually closed, leaving behind a shell of its former glory. Today, the abandoned theater stands as a haunting reminder of a bygone era. Urban explorers might venture through its decaying halls, capturing faded posters of long-forgotten films on peeling walls. Empty spaces and a once-grand stage hint at the laughter and tears once shared within these silent walls. Though not much was left behind, the interior was still very impressive, Upon entering, the light-colored first floor welcomes you with impressive colonnades and meticulously crafted capitals. In contrast, the cinema hall is decorated in a soft pink hue The future of this abandoned cinema remains uncertain. Will it be demolished to make way for new development, or will it be restored to its former glory, once again becoming a hub for entertainment and cultural exchange? Only time will tell. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Perched on the shores of Lake Sevan, on the Sevan Peninsula, the Sevan Writers’ Rest House is a striking example of Soviet modernist architecture. Built during a wave of cultural and architectural innovation in the USSR, it still draws curious travelers from around the world. While exploring the Sevan Peninsula, stop by for a coffee, admire the bold design of the iconic Lounge Building, and take in the sweeping views over the lake. < Back Sevan Writers’ Rest House - Soviet Modernist Architecture in Armenia Perched on the shores of Lake Sevan, on the Sevan Peninsula, the Sevan Writers’ Rest House is a striking example of Soviet modernist architecture. Built during a wave of cultural and architectural innovation in the USSR, it still draws curious travelers from around the world. While exploring the Sevan Peninsula, stop by for a coffee, admire the bold design of the iconic Lounge Building, and take in the sweeping views over the lake. Sevan Writers' Rest House consists of two separate structures, Residence Hall and Lounge Building, both erected at different times during the Soviet reign. The first drawings of the Residence Hall are dated 1932, while archival photographs and materials suggest that the construction was completed in 1935. The Residence Hall was designed by Gevorg Kochar (1901-1973) and Mikayel Mazmanyan (1899-1971). The examination of archival materials, however, revealed that Mikayel Mazmanyan’s name is not mentioned on the project’s architectural drawings, which leads to the assumption that he only participated in the preliminary stage of design. At the same time, his name is mentioned in many publications, including some printed during their lifetime, as co-author of the building. Sevan Writers' House in 1970. Photo: Nemrut Baghdasarian The building was initially designed as a four-story building. One of these was a basement (now the first floor), the other was a common area. The other two floors were designed for guest rooms with four rooms on each floor, each room occupying an area of 4.3m x 2.9m (9.5”x14”). Sketch of the building, 1963 Architect: Gevorg Kochar Source: Archives of the National Museum-Institute of Architecture named after Alexander Tamanyan, Yerevan Sadly, The Great Purge or the Great Terror (1937), didn't bypass both architects and in 1937, Kochar and Mazmanian were arrested right at their workplace. They were accused of espionage, treason, and involvement in a Trotskyist-Bukharinist group. The Military Collegium sentenced both to 15 years in labor camps and an additional 5 years of civil disenfranchisement. They spent a year in the Vologda penal zone, where the harsh conditions left little chance of survival. Gevorg Kochar and Mikayel Mazmanyan Their fate changed thanks to a friend— architect Karo Halabyan—who, through Mikoyan, secured their transfer to Norilsk. There, the architects contributed to the construction of major industrial facilities, the master plans for Norilsk and Dudinka, and designed landmark buildings in the city center, including the ensemble of Guards Square. Yet all the credit went to the free-hired management. In 1954, Mazmanian was rehabilitated. It wasn’t until 1960—six years later—that Kochar was also able to return to Yerevan, where he assumed the position of Chief Architect at the Yerevanproject Institute. After their return, they were reintegrated into the architectural life of the post-Stalinist period. In 1963, Kochar was commissioned to develop a reconstruction and an extension project for the Sevan Resort. In the reconstruction project, Kochar added an additional floor to the Residence Hall, forming a new wide terrace, which was the logical continuation of the original project's concept. The Lounge Building today... During the resort's reconstruction, Kochar also designed and built the new Lounge Building. Stylistically, the new building contrasted with the Residence Hall, but both of them formed a harmonious ensemble in combination with the natural landscape and incorporated the view of the medieval architecture of Sevan Monastery churches on the top of the peninsula. After the reconstruction, the Lounge and the Residence Hall of Sevan Writers House became one of the most iconic buildings of post-Stalin modernist Soviet Architecture. The view from the Dining Hall The Lounge with it’s protruding rounded design is definitely the trademark of the complex and stands harmoniously among the rocky terrain and offers an unforgettable panoramic view from inside! Moreover, the entire wing is balanced on one concrete leg, giving the structure a futuristic aesthetic. At the opposite end of its axis, the building is attached to the rock on a higher level of the hill. The overall space of the Lounge building is divided into two major parts. One part is the dining hall, which has a circular plan and is located towards the front of the building. Half of the dining hall circle is designed as a panoramic floor-to-ceiling window looking over a spectacular view of Lake Sevan. The dining hall also has an exit to a semi-circular open-sided loggia behind the panoramic window. The second part, in the rear half of the building is used for the foyer of the dining hall. The Residence Hall Unfortunately, the complex has not been renovated for a long time, but tuning in and enjoying a cup of beer or coffee can always have a relaxing effect! The view from the Lounge is breathtaking! Cheers! I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next