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Gleb Leontievich Travin (1902-1979) was a Soviet traveler who, between 1928 and 1931, undertook an extraordinary journey cycling around the perimeter of the Soviet Union, including the Arctic coast. Covering over 85,000 kilometers, this epic adventure was accomplished in an era when bicycles were far less comfortable and reliable than they are today. < Back Gleb Travin - The Badass Cyclist Who Crossed 85,000 km In 3 Years Gleb Leontievich Travin (1902-1979) was a Soviet traveler who, between 1928 and 1931, undertook an extraordinary journey cycling around the perimeter of the Soviet Union, including the Arctic coast. Covering over 85,000 kilometers, this epic adventure was accomplished in an era when bicycles were far less comfortable and reliable than they are today. Born on April 28, 1902, in the village of Kasievo, Pskov uyezd, Gleb Travin acquired vital survival skills from his father, a forester. Travin's interest in extended bicycle journeys started in 1923 when he met Dutch cyclist Adolf de Groot in Pskov. De Groot had recently finished a bicycle race across Europe. Motivated by this encounter, Travin conceived a more ambitious undertaking — circumnavigating the globe by bicycle. Gleb Travin's route map In 1925 Travin joined the army. He served in the Leningrad region not far from his native places. A competent and physically developed guy quickly became an excellent student in military training and a platoon commander. And during demobilization, his adventurous spirit came into play - those who served in the army had the right to free travel to their place of residence, which Travin took advantage of. In Pskov, he was registered on Petropavlovskaya Street, and by simple manipulation of the not very competent army bureaucracy, the street turned into a city - the capital of distant Kamchatka. It was Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky and the alluring Far East that seemed to young Gleb Travin as an excellent place to start a cycling trip. In Petropavlovsk at that time there were less than three hundred houses, and Travin quickly found his place among the builders of the first power plant in Kamchatka - literate people with skilled hands were then in short supply. In his free time, he trained on the Leitner army folding bicycle, manufactured in Riga at the Alexander Leitner factory. The power plant was operational by the spring of 1928, and with the bonus for his hard work, Travin bought a new Japanese bicycle - in Kamchatka during the NEP, imported goods from Japan and America were almost freely traded. Gleb Travin and his bicycle During this time, Travin began planning his bike trip. He selected ideology as the driving force behind his journey, aiming to promote physical culture and secure permission to travel globally. Recognizing that the Soviet authorities would likely deny him the opportunity to venture outside the country and circumnavigate the world, he devised and obtained approval for a route along the borders of the USSR. For his bicycle trip, Travin received from the Kamchatka City Executive Committee an American road bicycle Princeton model 404 red in color with white arrows on the frame (this bicycle was specially brought to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky for Travin). For the trip, he (at his own expense) purchased a Japanese Kodak camera (the camera he ordered was delivered the same ferry). In addition to a bicycle and a camera, his luggage included a registration book, clothes (including winter clothes), medicines and tools. As food for the journey, he took seven pounds of pressed biscuits and a kilogram of chocolate. He also took a small amount of money. Travin did not forget such a characteristic detail as a supply of business cards. "Tourist Around the World" cards were handed out at stops and overnight stays. The fully loaded bicycle weighed 80 kg, the same weight as the athlete. An article about Gleb Travin in Soviet geographic magazine "Around the World" Travin’s planned daily routine during the trip: 10 hours in the saddle, minimum daily riding time is 8 hours; Eating twice a day - at six o'clock in the morning and at six o'clock in the evening; Sleep in the open air. On the cyclist’s sleeve there was a green Dynamo armband with the inscription that amazed everyone he met: “Bicycle traveler Gleb Travin.” Having started the journey, Travin made a vow not to cut his hair until he completed it. He put a patent leather strap on his head. During the trip, Travin kept a diary, which in the 1930s was destroyed by his relatives along with the original photographs for fear that they would be repressed following Travin's biographer Vivian Itin. On October 10, 1928, Gleb Travin left Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky with a bicycle and went to Vladivostok by ship. The bike ride started from the capital of Primorye on October 23. From there he rode the bicycle along the Trans-Siberian Railway through Khabarovsk to Lake Baikal. Travin crossed Lake Baikal on the ice on the advice of the lighthouse keeper. Later, he also crossed rivers and lakes on ice. Gleb Travin Along the Trans-Siberian Railway, Travin reached Novosibirsk, from which he turned south, to the Cossack Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, then to the Central Asian republics of the USSR - the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, including the Tajik Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, then to the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic. In May 1929, the traveler reached Dushanbe, where the editorial office of the local newspaper, at his request, translated the inscription “Bicycle Traveler Gleb Travin” into Tajik for his armband. Since the word “bicycle” was absent in Tajik, as a result the inscription in Tajik had the meaning “traveler on a shaitan-arb”, that is, literally, “traveler on a damn cart”. Travin traveled from Central Asia to the Caucasus via the Caspian Sea by ferry. From the Caucasus in the summer of 1929, Travin traveled through the European part of the country and in November 1929 reached Murmansk, from where his winter Arctic part of the journey began along the coast of the Arctic Ocean, during which he traveled most of the way on ice. Gleb Travin during his travels In one of the polar northern villages, Travin got hold of a fur jumpsuit, which allowed him to sleep comfortably in the snow, buried in a snowdrift. The hunters taught the traveler how to catch seals, walruses, polar bears, arctic foxes and deer. He taught himself to fish using a bicycle spoke in cracks in the ice. As a result, the main components of Travin’s diet in the North were raw meat and raw fish - fresh and frozen (stroganina). In the area of Dolgiy Island, a serious problem occurred with Travin. Waking up after another night in the snow, he discovered that his boots and overalls were frozen in the ice, into which the snow that protected him from frost had turned overnight - at night, near him, the ice cracked and sea water came out of the crack. With the help of a knife, the traveler was able to get out, but at the same time severely damaged his clothes and shoes. Then he had to travel with his legs exposed to the frost and in torn overalls. The traveler came across a deer trail and, already frostbitten, reached the dwelling (plague) of Nenets reindeer herders, his journey in torn clothes and shoes took about a day, Travin overcame the last part of the journey to the camp crawling due to his legs giving out. Gleb Travin's registration book After undressing and warming up, Travin discovered signs of fatal damage to his toes. To prevent gangrene, he decided to partially amputate them, cutting off the dead skin as if removing a sock. This led the women who witnessed the act to believe he was a cannibal spirit named Keli. Following this incident, Travin earned the nickname "the devil on the iron deer" from the northern inhabitants, as the bend of the steering wheel reminded them of deer antlers. This nickname later inspired a book title. In the 1960s, Alexander Kharitonovsky published a book about Travin titled "The Man with the Iron Deer: The Tale of a Forgotten Feat," which underwent several reprints. After this, with his legs still not healed, Travin got on the icebreaker “Lenin” of the Kara Marine Expedition, where he communicated with its leader, Professor N.I. Evgenov, a hydrographer. The professor doubted the possibility of reaching Chukotka alone on a bicycle and was surprised by the traveler’s assurances about the convenience of riding on ice. On the day of Travin’s departure from the Kara expedition, pilot Chukhnovsky took his photograph, which has survived to this day. Before the Taimyr peninsula, Travin fell through the ice, got out and spent a long time drying his soaking wet clothes - first he tried to dry them in the cold in the wind (while burying himself in a snowdrift), then he got dressed and dried them on himself, actively moving. During this run, he found a pile of deer carcasses dumped by local hunters, climbed into it and slept well, having the opportunity to rest in the warmth. Gleb Travin's bicycle on display in Pskov State Museum-Reserve On the Pyasina River, Travin again fell through the ice and almost died. After this, on the way to Chukotka, Travin came across a mammoth cemetery and took with him one tusk, which he managed to pull out of the frozen soil. In the small town of Russkoe Ustye on Indigirka, Travin worked as a geography teacher. At the end of the journey, Travin reached Chukotka. One of the Chukchi craftsmen made plates from mammoth ivory and on one of them carved a seal, a walrus, a whale and the inscription “Bicycle traveler Gleb Travin”. In July 1931, Travin reached Cape Dezhnev, where he again tried to obtain permission to leave the USSR for the purpose of traveling around the world along the route: the western coast of North and South America, Tierra del Fuego, the African coast, the Sahara, the Arabian Peninsula, India, China, Tibet, Mongolia , USSR. Having received a refusal and an offer to board a ship to Kamchatka, he sailed to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, where he finally completed his journey. Gleb Travin doesn't look like a man from the 1930s! Could he have been a time traveler? After the trip to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Travin was presented with a GTO badge and a pennant with a memorable inscription: “Kamchatka Regional Council of Physical Education to an active striker of the physical education movement of Kamchatka”. Many publications, starting with newspaper notes published during Travin’s travels, indicate unrealistically large distances traveled by him, which do not correspond to the route entries in the traveler’s registration book. Thus, in the book “The Man with the Iron Deer,” Kharitanovsky indicated the length of the route as 85 thousand kilometers, which contradicts the entries in the route book (exceeds the route indicated in it). Moreover, in a note published on October 13, 1929, the newspaper “Pskov Alarm” reported that 80 thousand kilometers had already been covered then, despite the fact that this was only a third of the route planned by Travin. In that publication, the distance traveled was clearly overestimated. According to realistic estimates, the length of the longest (northern) part of the route, that is, the route along the Arctic Circle, is estimated at 10-13 thousand kilometers. Gleb Travin's knife According to the entries in Travin’s record book, stored in the Pskov State Museum-Reserve, he covered five sections of the route by ship: from October 10 to October 23, 1928, the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky - Vladivostok section, 2600 km long; from July 26 to July 28, 1929: Krasnovodsk - Baku - 280 km; from August 22 to August 26, 1929: Rostov-on-Don - Yalta - 580 km; from August 20 to September 11, 1930: Vaygach Island - Dikson Island - 850 km; from September 30 to October 17, 1931: Gulf of Lawrence - Ust-Kamchatsk - 1900 km. Section of the route covered with dogs: In Russian Ustye, where Travin appeared in January 1931 and stayed for more than two months, residents presented the traveler with sleds with dogs and persuaded him to continue his journey on a dog sled. According to eyewitnesses, Travin was seen riding a bicycle on a sled pulled by dogs, traveling from Russky Ustye through Krestovsky Island and Chetyrekhstolbovoy Island, where Yakuts also saw him. They reported that the traveler continued towards Chukotka, specifically Shelagsky Cape. However, after Chetyrekh Stolbovoy, there is no evidence that he utilized dog sleds. After completing his extensive journey, Travin settled in Kamchatka, where he trained cyclists, motorcyclists, and motorists. During the Great Patriotic War, he served as a teacher of military affairs at the Kamchatka Marine and Fishery Technical School. Only in 1962 Travin returned to Pskov. Gleb Travin's compass A quarter of a century after Travin’s polar “bike trip”, journalist Alexander Kharitanovsky ended up in Chukotka. Quite by chance, from local residents, he heard a story about a strange cyclist that struck him. Bicycle in Chukotka?! The journalist didn’t believe it, but decided to figure out the origin of such an amazing “anecdote.” The notes and brochures of the 1930s were long forgotten; no one remembered the name of Gleb Travin. However, Kharitanovsky conducted a real journalistic investigation, looked up archives, found eyewitnesses - to his amazement, he discovered an extraordinary and completely forgotten feat. It was the end of the 50s, the era had changed dramatically. The forgotten hero turned out to be completely in the style of the new time - in those years, the heyday of camping and tourist romance began in the USSR. In Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, journalist Kharitanovsky found a modest teacher at the nautical school - Gleb Travin himself. And the former “tourist on a bicycle around the world” took out for the guest a “passport-recorder” carefully hidden since the late 30s, documentary evidence of a unique trip. Thus was born the story “The Man with the Iron Deer” - a romanticized, slightly embellished, but sincere story about the life and exploits of a unique cyclist. The story has gone through many editions in the country and abroad. Even in France a brochure based on it appeared. Unfortunately, his dream never came true, as the Soviet authorities didn't grant him permission to embark on a bicycle journey around the globe. In 1969, Travin and Kamchatka journalist N. Ilyushev flew by plane along part of Travin’s travel route from Arkhangelsk to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky with stops in Anderma, Tiksi, Chersky and Pevek. The registry book was stamped on its pages with the seals of all the authorities and postal stations he passed by Among lovers of tourism and cycling, the name of Gleb Travin literally thundered. He immediately turned into a living legend, a true idol with an unsurpassed achievement. Dozens of cycling clubs “named after Travin” appeared throughout the USSR. And in East Germany, after the German translation of the book “The Man with the Iron Deer,” several cycling clubs named after him arose. The last years of life Travin spent time in Pskov, where he organized a home museum and introduced everyone to the materials of his travels. The words from his registration notebook remain relevant: “I survive because I don’t fight against nature, but try to live according to its laws.” Today a separate exhibition about him is featured in the local history museum of his native Pskov, showcasing his bicycle, registry book, and other items. Gleb Travin died on October 19, 1979 in Pskov. 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"There are two kind of people in this world my friend. Those with loaded guns. And those who dig. You dig." In the world of cinema, the reason to dig might be clear, but in real life, it’s often shrouded in mystery—especially when it comes to older men suddenly taking on ambitious underground projects. Stories like Burro Schmidt’s 32-year tunnel through a mountain in California and Levon Arakelyan’s intricate, 23-year excavation in Armenia defy simple explanations, reflecting deep personal quests or a hidden sense of purpose that remains elusive. Let’s delve into these two famous cases and explore what might drive such a profound commitment to dig against all odds. < Back From Burro Schmidt Tunnel to Levon’s Cave "There are two kind of people in this world my friend. Those with loaded guns. And those who dig. You dig." In the world of cinema, the reason to dig might be clear, but in real life, it’s often shrouded in mystery—especially when it comes to older men suddenly taking on ambitious underground projects. Stories like Burro Schmidt’s 32-year tunnel through a mountain in California and Levon Arakelyan’s intricate, 23-year excavation in Armenia defy simple explanations, reflecting deep personal quests or a hidden sense of purpose that remains elusive. Let’s delve into these two famous cases and explore what might drive such a profound commitment to dig against all odds. Burro Schmidt Tunnel In the vast, arid stretches of the Mojave Desert's El Paso Mountains lies an unexpected engineering marvel: a half-mile-long tunnel cut straight through solid rock. This tunnel, dug by hand using a pick, shovel, and a four-pound hammer, stands as a testament to the grit of one man, William “Burro” H. Schmidt, who spent over 32 years of his life on this relentless project. William “Burro” H. Schmidt The tunnel, which measures approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall and 10 feet (3 meters) wide, runs 2,087 feet through the mountain. Located just below the summit of a 4,400-foot (1,300 m) mountain, its southern entrance provides a dramatic view of Fremont Valley, Koehn Dry Lake, and ghost towns like Garlock and Saltdale. However, it doesn’t lead anywhere of strategic significance, simply emerging on a high ledge in the middle of nowhere. Schmidt originally envisioned the tunnel as a shortcut to transport ore from his mining claim in the mountains to a smelter on the opposite side. He had moved to the California desert from Rhode Island in the late 19th century, seeking a healthier climate, and began work on the tunnel in 1906. His motivation for this massive project was partly due to the hazardous back trail, which he refused to use to haul his ore with his two trusty burros, Jack and Jenny. With basic tools—a pick, shovel, and a four-pound hammer—Schmidt painstakingly carved through solid granite, hauling away an estimated 5,800 tons (5,260 metric tonnes) of rock. His methods were grueling; he often used dangerously short dynamite fuses and removed rubble by wheelbarrow, or even carried it on his back. Over time, he installed a mining cart on rails to ease the burden. His dedication took a physical toll, eventually causing his abdominal muscles to overdevelop, leaving him permanently hunched. By 1920, a road was constructed from Last Chance Canyon to Mojave, making Schmidt’s tunnel obsolete for ore transportation. Yet, he continued to dig, driven by an intense, almost inexplicable determination. Locals initially saw him as eccentric, and later, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! immortalized him as “the human mole” for his obsessive work. Despite the alternative route, he completed the tunnel in 1938, having dedicated over three decades to his solitary pursuit. Schmidt eventually left the area, selling the tunnel to another miner. His small cabin, preserved by the desert’s dry climate, remains a relic of his solitary life, as does the tunnel itself. Today, this remarkable feat of determination stands as both a memorial to Schmidt's grit and a unique tourist attraction. Visitors can walk the length of the tunnel, experiencing firsthand the intensity of one man’s life work, cut into the rock as a silent testament to his unyielding spirit. Coordinates of Burro Schmidt Tunnel: 35°24'21"N 117°52'32"W Levon’s Cave Master Levon at work Levon's Divine Pit, also known as "Levon's Cave" or "Tosya's Pit," was founded in 1985 by Levon Arakelyan in the village of Arinj, Kotayk Province, Armenia. This impressive hand-carved underground structure spans 300 square meters, reaching a depth of 21 meters, with seven rooms connected by narrow stairs. The story behind Levon’s cave is remarkable: in the spring of 1985, his wife, Mrs. Tosya, asked him to dig a cellar for potatoes. Soon after beginning, Levon reportedly experienced a vision in which a voice from a mist urged him to keep digging. Inspired by this vision, Levon continued the excavation using only a hammer and chisel, refusing modern tools despite the challenging soil. Over 23 years, he created intricate carvings and passages, installing electrical wiring and lights along the way. Each chamber was sculpted according to visions he claimed to receive, aiming to expand the cave to 74 rooms with distinctive designs. Following Levon's death in 2009, Mrs. Tosya began managing the site as a museum, preserving his legacy and sharing the story with visitors. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 10°C year-round. Visitors can view Levon’s personal artifacts, press coverage about his work, and notebooks with visitor impressions on the first floor, which serves as a museum today. In the courtyard, flower pots crafted from stone remnants honor his creativity, while two wall paintings, one of Levon with a chisel and hammer and another of his wife holding a potato, further capture the essence of his life and work. Coordinates of Levon's cave: 40°13'49"N 44°34'13"E Conclusion Older men often engage in solitary digging projects to find purpose, structure, and physical activity, especially after retirement. Tunnel digging or similar ventures provide both mental stimulation and physical exercise, serving as an outlet for independence and resilience. For some, these projects offer a way to cope with grief or major life transitions, creating a channel for self-expression. Such efforts also fulfill a deeper desire to leave a legacy, showcasing a testament to their grit. These pursuits combine a unique form of meditation with physical effort, enhancing overall well-being and reinforcing their sense of self. Gallery You May Also Like Guide in Armenia Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak

Armenian last names, mirroring the culture they represent, boast a rich history and diverse heritage. Approximately 60,000 unique surnames exist in Armenia. Among the most common Armenian last names are Harutyunyan, Hovhannisyan, Hakobyan, Sargsyan, Gevorgyan, Davtyan, Petrosyan, Grigoryan, Abrahamyan, Avetisyan etc. This article is about the history and formation of Armenian last names. < Back Armenian Last Names Armenian last names, mirroring the culture they represent, boast a rich history and diverse heritage. Approximately 60,000 unique surnames exist in Armenia. Among the most common Armenian last names are Harutyunyan, Hovhannisyan, Hakobyan, Sargsyan, Gevorgyan, Davtyan, Petrosyan, Grigoryan, Abrahamyan, Avetisyan etc. This article is about the history and formation of Armenian last names. The evolution of surnames is intricately tied to the development of production relations. In ancient and medieval times, noble families carried surnames such as Mamikonians, Artsruni, Pahlavuni, Bagratuni, etc. Prominent families in medieval Armenia often had words like "nation (ազգն - azgn in Armenia)" or "house (տուն - tun in Armenia)" added to their common surname, indicating their lineage: "azgn Mamikonyats," "Azgn Rshtunyats," "Tunn Artsrunyats," and so forth. During this period, some people adopted surnames based on their birthplace or main activity, functioning as both a name and a surname (e.g., Movses Khorenatsi, Grigor Narekatsi, Mkhitar Gosh). The modern era marked the widespread use of surnames, often derived from the ancestor's name with a prefix or suffix expressing kinship. Armenians, for example, commonly use the suffix "yan – յան in Armenian," or “ian – յան in Armenia” traceable in historical sources from the 5th century and widely adopted in the 19th century. Armenian surnames may also stem from occupation (Darbinyan, Voskerchyan), nicknames, or place names (Cholakyan, Baiburtyan, Yerevantsyan, Shirakyan). Some are formed from a woman's name, highlighting her notable activities (Shushanyan, Sirunyan). Dictionary of Armenian last names by Tigran Avetisyan The Grabar (classical Armenian from 5-18th centuries) suffixes used in Armenian surnames are called relative or dynastic suffixes, including atsi, eri, yan, yanz. Completing the topic, let us state the following that structure of Armenian surnames consists of a base plus a surname-forming suffix (-ian, -iants, -unts/-ents/-onts/-ants, -uni, -akan). In conclusion, Armenian last names are not mere identifiers; they narrate stories of people, occupations, ancestors, and origins. Whether you bear an Aghabekyan, Harutyunyan or Grigoryan surname, it signifies a vibrant chapter in Armenian culture's rich history. Therefore, the next time you encounter an Armenian surname, recognize it as more than a label - it is a doorway to a unique story, waiting to be explored. With each name, a new chapter in Armenia's history and culture unfolds. Gallery You May Also Like Guide in Armenia Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak

Dimats mountain has surely become one of the most popular hiking and off-roading destinations in Armenia in recent years! Take this guided hiking tour and make your trip to Armenia a memorable one! This article can be a good tourist guide for those who want to hike and explore Dimats trail. < Back Hiking tour to mount Dimats Dimats mountain has surely become one of the most popular hiking and off-roading destinations in Armenia in recent years! Take this guided hiking tour and make your trip to Armenia a memorable one! This article can be a good tourist guide for those who want to hike and explore Dimats trail. Thanks to its charming cliffs, Shaghot waterfall and photogenic views mount Dimats (2360 m) has become a popular hiking destination among tourists in Armenia! This is a peak in the Tavush Region of Armenia, in the southwestern part of Ijevan Mountains, 5 km northwest of Haghartsin village! On our way we will see lots of horses ... Then we will see the pearl of this place: Shaghot waterfall Shaghot waterfall is another popular tourist attraction! Imagine standing under the waterfall and watching water pouring down from the height of 46 meters... Details Of The Hiking Tour To Mount Dimats: Start: 7:30 from Yerevan Finish: Around 7.00 PM in Yerevan Hiking Distance: 8.5 km (One way) Duration: 4-4.5 hours (Ascent)! Altitude Gain: 1260 meters Start point: Teghut village (1100m) End point: Teghut village Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Sedan --------------- Tour Price to Dimats mountain: 1-4 Participants: 90.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ---------------- The Price Includes: Transportation (Pick Up & Drop-off) Service of a guide. -------------- The Price Does Not Include: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment) ----------------- List of things you should consider taking: 1. Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry all your essentials. 2. Water: Sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the hike. At least 1.5 liters… 3. Food: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up. 4. Clothing: Dress in layers, including a waterproof/windproof outer layer, and choose moisture-wicking materials. Having extra socks and boots always welcomed… 5. Hiking Shoes/Boots: Wear comfortable and supportive footwear suitable for the terrain. 6. First Aid Kit: I have mine but in case you are using specific medicaments take with you! 7. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. 9. Headlamp/Flashlight: Essential for hiking in low light conditions or during overnight trips. 10. Whistle: A loud whistle for attracting attention in case of emergencies. 11. Trekking Poles: Optional but helpful for stability, especially on challenging terrains. 12. Rain Gear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during rain showers. 13. Trash Bag: Carry a small bag to pack out your trash and keep the trail clean. Remember, this list may vary depending on the length and difficulty of the hike, weather conditions, and personal needs. But this were the basic things I decided to emphasize! Me standing at the top of mount Dimats and taking drone shots! Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tour to ROT54 – Explore Armenia’s Most Fascinating Abandoned Place Hiking from Lake Parz to Gosh Village From Yerevan to Mount Aragats Hike Armenia by choosing the popular Smbataberd trail Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour to Azat Reservoir Hiking Tour to Mount Azhdahak — The Best Trail in Armenia Climb Mount Artanish & Explore Sevanavank Monastery Climbing mount Aragats (all 4 summits) Previous Next

Learn about Soviet culture houses which were integral club institutions in former socialist countries. Discover their history and the significant role they played in education and propaganda. < Back About Soviet Culture Houses Learn about Soviet culture houses which were integral club institutions in former socialist countries. Discover their history and the significant role they played in education and propaganda. House of culture (Дом культуры) is a club institution, a center of cultural and educational work in (former) socialist countries, as well as in some Spanish- and French-speaking countries. The massive development of club institutions began in the USSR in November 1920, when the Glavpolitprosvet was formed by decree of the Council of People's Commissars in the system of the People's Commissariat of Education of the RSFSR. People's houses(Народные дома), built in the second half of the 1880s, were then transformed into workers' clubs and cultural centers. Culture house in Haytagh village Almost every village had its own culture house, and cities had many of them. In some cases, even factories and institutions had their culture houses. Each of these culture houses had a hall for theatrical performances and other ceremonies, equipped with a movie projector. Children could engage in various activities like dancing, chess, and arts. As a rule a public library was also housed in the Culture House. Above all they served a perfect place for spreading Soviet propaganda! Posters, special films and meetings served for that purpose! A well preserved (also renovated but they kept the original look) hall in a culture house While culture houses in the Soviet Union shared a similar architectural style, their interior design could vary depending on the region. 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. A large fresco in a culture house! It depicts fedayi Andranik, his soldiers and dancing women! This could pretty much be classified as "nationalistic" in Soviet union and Kremlin could urge to destroy! 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. In 1988, there were over 137,000 club establishments in the Soviet Union, and even after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, many of them continue to exist. Since many have not been renovated and still look as they did decades ago, a visit to these culture houses promises to be a historical tour back to the old Soviet times. Even nowadays you can come across to old projectors in culture houses! They stopped working long time ago but add a special charm to the places! On my website, you can explore the "Urbex Armenia" section to learn about many culture houses waiting for your discovery! Gallery You May Also Like Guide in Armenia Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak

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. < Back 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. Yuri Gagarin's historic spaceflight in 1961 was not just a scientific triumph for the Soviet Union; it became a cultural phenomenon that left a lasting impact on Soviet art. The depiction of the cosmos, cosmonauts, and spaceships became integral themes for Soviet artists, giving birth to a new movement in art. Soviet art often portrayed space exploration not merely as a scientific feat but as a symbol of the superiority of the socialist system. The holistic image of the "Progress" mosaic is truly captivating. I was fortunate to visit the bookstore just after its reconstruction, when the shelves were still empty, providing an unobstructed view. However, the presence of columns made it challenging to capture a satisfactory photograph. Eye-catching posters, frescoes, statues, mosaics, and bas-reliefs emerged, featuring astronauts, spaceships, and celestial bodies in bold colors and dynamic compositions. These works were designed to inspire the public and promote Soviet achievements. Today, these surviving pieces offer a portal to a Soviet past that was striving toward the future. In this article, we will focus on one such mosaic. This expansive mosaic consists of three images. Let's explore it from the left side. The first figure is an astronaut in a spacesuit, floating in space. The figure is rendered in a stylized manner, with the background showcasing abstract patterns and shapes that suggest motion and depth. The second figure is reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man, suggesting a blend of human anatomy and geometric perfection. It appears as though emerging from a seashell. Seashells are often associated with love and fertility. Could this be a reference to birth and new life? The third part portrays a naked male figure with arms and wings outstretched, appearing to be levitating in the air. This can symbolize human aspiration and the quest for knowledge. Such figures with similar appearances were common in Soviet art. We also see an image of a dove, symbolizing peace. The mosaic is crafted using earth tones, with a palette of brown, beige, white, and black tiles, creating an intricate and dynamic visual effect. The background continues to display intricate patterns and abstract designs, creating a cohesive and immersive visual experience. Overall, the mosaic conveys a powerful narrative about human exploration, scientific achievement, and the artistic interpretation of these themes. The combination of abstract and figurative elements, along with the use of a rich color palette, enhances the visual and thematic impact of the artwork. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside Levon’s Divine Underground The Soviet “Raketa” boats of Lake Sevan Top Railway Stations to See in Armenia The Soviet-Era Sanatorium in Armenia Built by German Prisoners of War A Soviet-era sanatorium with forgotten masterpieces The ZTA-2.6 Telescope at Byurakan Observatory Inside a Soviet-Era Crystal Growth Lab Exploring a Soviet-era abandoned driving school in Armenia Previous Next

Join a popular guided hiking tour to Mount Azhdahak, the highest peak in the Geghama Mountain Range. Renowned as one of Armenia’s top hiking destinations, this iconic summit offers stunning panoramic views and a unique chance to explore a breathtaking crater lake. Adventure seekers can even swim in the refreshing lake for a truly memorable experience. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, this Mount Azhdahak trek is a must-do. Book your guided tour today and conquer Armenia’s premier hiking adventure! < Back Hiking Tour to Mount Azhdahak — The Best Trail in Armenia Join a popular guided hiking tour to Mount Azhdahak, the highest peak in the Geghama Mountain Range. Renowned as one of Armenia’s top hiking destinations, this iconic summit offers stunning panoramic views and a unique chance to explore a breathtaking crater lake. Adventure seekers can even swim in the refreshing lake for a truly memorable experience. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, this Mount Azhdahak trek is a must-do. Book your guided tour today and conquer Armenia’s premier hiking adventure! The Geghama Mountains, extending across central Armenia, form a captivating volcanic landscape characterized by extinct volcanoes, high-altitude lakes, and diverse wildlife. Renowned for their towering peaks and expansive volcanic plateaus, the range offers breathtaking vistas and serves as a popular destination for hiking, trekking and off-road tours in Armenia. Additionally, the Geghama Mountains attract bikepacking enthusiasts who test their strength and resilience as they navigate the challenging terrain, making the range a favored destination for outdoor adventurers of all kinds. My Mitsubishi Pajero will take us to the foot of Mount Paytasar (3,000 meters), where we’ll begin our hike after a short coffee break. Towering at 3,597 meters (11,801 feet), this ‘Red Giant’ attracts hikers from across the globe. On a clear day, its summit offers sweeping views of Lake Sevan, the tranquil Lake Akna, and Vishapalich (Dragon Lake), all framed by the rugged peaks of the surrounding mountains, creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop. Aerial photo of mount Azhdahak. Took the photo on the first half of July The ascent to Mount Azhdahak unveils a tapestry of diverse flora and fauna. While traversing the paths, you'll come across indigenous wildflowers and signs of wildlife that inhabit this mountainous terrain. Probably I just came across traces of brown bear (Ursus arctos)! During my hikes, there's a tradition - each time we encounter flowers, we place our boots close to the flower and take a photo! In this particular image, you can admire the vibrant Aurinia saxatilis, commonly known as the "Basket of Gold." These beautiful flowers thrive in open, sunlit areas and prefer soil that is well-draining, chalky, sandy, or gritty in texture. It's worth noting that these delicate flowers are generally not suitable for picking. Aurinia saxatilis, commonly known as the "Basket of Gold" We are traversing a narrow path along Mount Red Ridge, leading us to the foot of Azhdahak, where the ascent to the summit begins! The frozen crater lake of mount Azhdahak located at an altitude of 3512 meters above the sea level. Renowned for their spiritual and historical significance, the Geghama Mountains have been inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by the numerous petroglyphs scattered throughout the region. On our return, we will stop to explore the renowned Geghama petroglyphs, dating back centuries. These ancient rock carvings serve as a powerful testament to the cultural heritage of the mountains and the rich history of Armenia. The petroglyphs depict men engaged in hunting and daily activities, alongside representations of both domesticated and wild animals. They also feature celestial bodies, including the Sun, Moon, constellations, and the starry sky, as well as natural phenomena like lightning. This petroglyph depicts two bulls and two elks. Given that elks are no longer native to this region, these ancient carvings raise intriguing questions about the historical presence of these animals in the area. Could these petroglyphs indicate that elks once roamed this territory thousands of years ago, or might the ancient artists have encountered them elsewhere? It is also possible that climate change contributed to their disappearance. Considering the vast time span, many factors could have influenced the presence and extinction of these species. Sketches of petroglyphs of Geghama mountains. (The petroglyphs of Geghama mountains/H.A. Martirosyan, 1981). Image colors are inverted Rock carvings can be used as rich sources of paleogeological information. Dominant among rock-carved animals is the bezoar goat, widespread in the high Alpine zones of prehistoric Armenia. Armenia offered favorable conditions for early goat and sheep domestication and improvement through crossbreeding with wild stock. Of high artistic quality among all the images in the Geghama mountain range are the lutiform carvings of deer, which impress with their realistic form. The study of rock carvings has brought to light another member of the extinct fauna - the elk. A visit to Mount Azhdahak is not just a journey through breathtaking landscapes but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural wonders of Armenia. So, if you're looking for unique tours in Armenia, hiking Mount Azhdahak should be at the top of your list. Tour Details: Start: 7:30-8.00 AM from Yerevan Finish: Around 5 PM in Yerevan Hiking Distance: 5.5 km (One way) Duration: Around 2.5 - 3 hours (Ascent)! Altitude Gain: 600 meters Start point: Foot of mount Paytasar (3000m) End point: Foot of mount Paytasar (3000m) Difficulty: Moderate Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Off-road Car --------------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Azhdahak 1-4 Participants: 110.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ----------------- The Price Includes: Transportation (Pick Up & Drop-off) Service of a guide. ---------------- The Price Does Not Include: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment) ---------- List of things you should consider taking: 1. Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry all your essentials. 2. Water: Sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the hike. At least 1.5 liters… 3. Food: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up. 4. Clothing: Dress in layers, including a waterproof/windproof outer layer, and choose moisture-wicking materials. Having extra socks and boots always welcomed… 5. Hiking Shoes/Boots: Wear comfortable and supportive footwear suitable for the terrain. 6. First Aid Kit: I have mine but in case you are using specific medicaments take with you! 7. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. 9. Headlamp/Flashlight: Essential for hiking in low light conditions or during overnight trips. 10. Whistle: A loud whistle for attracting attention in case of emergencies. 11. Trekking Poles: Optional but helpful for stability, especially on challenging terrains. 12. Rain Gear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during rain showers. 13. Trash Bag: Carry a small bag to pack out your trash and keep the trail clean. Remember, this list may vary depending on the length and difficulty of the hike, weather conditions, and personal needs. But this were the basic things I decided to emphasize! Flight over mount Azhdahak Project Gallery You May Also Like Urbex Tour to ROT54 – Explore Armenia’s Most Fascinating Abandoned Place Hiking from Lake Parz to Gosh Village From Yerevan to Mount Aragats Hike Armenia by choosing the popular Smbataberd trail Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour to Azat Reservoir Hiking Tour to Mount Azhdahak — The Best Trail in Armenia Climb Mount Artanish & Explore Sevanavank Monastery Climbing mount Aragats (all 4 summits) Previous Next

Dervla Murphy, the intrepid Irish touring cyclist and acclaimed travel writer, left an indelible mark on the world with her daring adventures. Born on November 28, 1931, in Lismore, County Waterford, she spent over 50 years chronicling her remarkable journeys across continents. Let’s delve into the captivating life and travels of this extraordinary woman. < Back Dervla Murphy - A Fearless Explorer on Two Wheels Dervla Murphy, the intrepid Irish touring cyclist and acclaimed travel writer, left an indelible mark on the world with her daring adventures. Born on November 28, 1931, in Lismore, County Waterford, she spent over 50 years chronicling her remarkable journeys across continents. Let’s delve into the captivating life and travels of this extraordinary woman. Born and raised in Lismore, County Waterford, Murphy's childhood dream of traveling was sparked by a second-hand bicycle and an atlas received on her tenth birthday. Her determination to cycle to India one day was crystallized on a steep hill near Lismore. Despite leaving secondary school at 14 to care for her disabled mother, Murphy undertook various short trips in her youth and published travel articles in journals like Hibernia and the Irish Independent. The death of her first lover, Godfrey, in 1958, followed by the illnesses and deaths of her father and mother in 1961 and 1962, respectively, marked a turning point. Freed from domestic responsibilities, Murphy embarked on the extended journey she had long envisioned. Dervla Murphy with her bike in India in 1963 In 1963, armed with determination and her trusty bicycle, Dervla embarked on an audacious expedition. Her mission? To pedal from her home in Ireland all the way to India. Taking a pistol along with other equipment aboard her Armstrong Cadet men's bicycle (named Rozinante in allusion to Don Quixote's steed, and always known as Roz), she passed through Europe during one of the worst winters in years. In Yugoslavia, Murphy began to write a journal instead of mailing letters. In Iran she used her gun to frighten off a group of thieves, and "used unprintable tactics" to escape from an attempted rapist at a police station. She received her worst injury of the journey on a bus in Afghanistan, when a rifle butt hit her and fractured three ribs; however, this only delayed her for a short while. She wrote appreciatively about the landscape and people of Afghanistan, calling herself "Afghanatical" and claiming that the Afghan "is a man after my own heart." Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle by Dervla Murphy In Pakistan, she visited Swat (where she was a guest of the last wali, Miangul Aurangzeb) and the mountain area of Gilgit. The final leg of her trip took her through the Punjab region and over the border to India towards Delhi. Dervla’s book, “Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle,” published in 1965, immortalized this epic journey. Through her vivid prose, readers rode alongside her, feeling the wind in their hair and the thrill of the open road. She captured the essence of adventure—the raw beauty of landscapes, the kindness of strangers, and the resilience required to conquer the unknown. Post-Delhi, Murphy engaged in volunteer work with Tibetan refugees, contributing to the Save the Children organization. Her experiences in Dharamsala and the Kullu Valley were captured in "Tibetan Foothold." Further travels led her to Africa in 1966, where she walked with a pack mule in Ethiopia, detailed in "In Ethiopia with a Mule." Murphy's daughter, Rachel, became her travel companion at the age of five, accompanying her on journeys to India, Peru, Madagascar, and Cameroon. Their adventures challenged traditional gender roles, with Dervla often mistaken for Rachel's husband. She surmised that this misgendering occurred not only because of her physique but also because the idea of women traveling so far without a man was inconceivable. Not confined to conventional travel narratives, Murphy delved into political issues. Her book "A Place Apart" (1978) focused on Northern Ireland, winning the 1979 Christopher Ewart-Biggs Memorial Prize. Subsequent works addressed global concerns, including apartheid, the Rwandan genocide, and post-war reconstruction in the Balkans. In her later years, Murphy continued to push boundaries. At 71, she planned to cycle in eastern Russia but, following injuries, documented her journey around Siberia by train, boat, and bus in "Through Siberia by Accident." A unique figure in travel writing, Murphy's outspoken views extended beyond her adventures. She was anti-globalization, critical of international institutions, and a vocal advocate against nuclear power and climate change. Through Siberia by Accident by Dervla Murphy Dervla Murphy passed away on 22 May 2022, leaving behind a legacy that earned her recognition as the Inspiring Cyclist of the Year in 2019 and the Royal Geographical Society's Ness Award for the popularization of geography through travel literature. Her contribution to writing, particularly travel writing, was celebrated by the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, who acknowledged her unique commitment to the value of human experience in all its diversity. Dervla’s journeys were not for the faint-hearted. She danced with danger, surviving encounters with wolves in Bulgaria, threats from soldiers in Ethiopia, and even a robbery in Siberia. Yet, she considered tripping over cats at home and shattering her left arm as her worst incident—a testament to her resilience and perspective. Dervla Murphy’s legacy extends beyond her books. She inspired countless travelers to embrace the road less traveled, to seek connections with people, and to cherish the unpredictable. Her spirit lives on in those who dare to pedal, hike, and explore—those who understand that the journey itself is the greatest reward. So, let us raise our imaginary glasses to Dervla Murphy—the woman who pedaled her way into our hearts, leaving tire tracks of courage. Gallery You May Also Like Guide in Armenia Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak

Armenia, officially known as the Republic of Armenia, is a landlocked country located in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it is part of the Caucasus region and shares borders with Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the south, and Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan, to the southwest. Yerevan, the nation's capital, stands as its largest city and primary financial center. Armenia's strategic location reflects its rich and complex history, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and geopolitical significance. < Back Where is Armenia - Maps, History and Facts Armenia, officially known as the Republic of Armenia, is a landlocked country located in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it is part of the Caucasus region and shares borders with Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the south, and Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan, to the southwest. Yerevan, the nation's capital, stands as its largest city and primary financial center. Armenia's strategic location reflects its rich and complex history, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and geopolitical significance. Armenia is a landlocked country in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia, located just south of the Caucasus mountain range. It is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the south, and the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan to the southwest. (Historically part of Armenia up to 1921 but transferred to Azerbaijan by the Bolsheviks. On March 16, 1921, Soviet Russia and Turkey signed an agreement in Moscow, according to which Nakhichevan was transferred to the guardianship of Soviet Azerbaijan. Before that, Nakhichevan was part of the First Republic of Armenia. From the point of view of international law, this was an absolutely illegal agreement. Two countries transferred the territory of a third state, which they themselves recognized as sovereign, to a fourth state, without their participation or even asking for their opinion.) This map clearly illustrates Armenia's landlocked position, highlighting its geographic situation surrounded by neighboring countries without direct access to the sea Armenia has a total area of 29,743 square kilometers (11,484 square miles) and a population of about 3 million people. The capital and largest city is Yerevan, situated along the Hrazdan River, it is the administrative, cultural, and industrial center of the country. Armenia boasts a rich and ancient history, tracing its origins to the 16th century BC as part of the Urartu civilization. It emerged as a powerful kingdom in the 1st century BC under the reign of Tigranes the Great, whose leadership significantly expanded Armenia's territory and influence in the region. Map of the Republic of Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Republic At the height of his rule, Tigranes' empire stretched from the Pontic Alps (in present-day northeastern Turkey) to Mesopotamia, and from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean. His series of military victories and territorial expansion earned him the prestigious Achaemenid title "King of Kings," a designation also used by the contemporary Parthian rulers, and this title prominently appeared on coins minted after 85 BC. One of the few countries marked on the Babylonian clay slab-map (dates to no earlier than the 9th century BC (with a late 8th or 7th date being more likely)) is Urartu (Armenia), which comes to prove once again that Armenia is one of the oldest countries on earth! Map of the World from Sippar, Iraq, 6th century BCE. British Museum Armenia was also one of the first countries to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 AD under King Tiridates III. Armenia has faced many invasions and conflicts throughout its history, such as by the Romans, Persians, Mongols, Ottomans, Russians, and Azerbaijanis. Armenia gained its independence from Russia in 1991 after decades of Soviet occupation. Ejmiatsin Cathedral. The Ejmiatsin Cathedral, also known as the Mother Cathedral of Holy Ejmiatsin, is the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Located in the city of Vagharshapat, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the oldest cathedral in Armenia, dating back to 301 AD. The cathedral is a symbol of Armenian Christianity and a masterpiece of Armenian architecture, with its intricate carvings, frescoes, and religious significance. Armenia is a landlocked country that has no access to the sea. It has a diverse geography that includes mountains, valleys, plains, forests, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. Some of the most famous natural attractions in Armenia are Mount Aragats (highest summit), Lake Sevan (the largest lake in Armenia), Geghard Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Garni Temple (the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in Armenia and the former Soviet Union) etc. Armenia also has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its ancient traditions and modern influences. Some of the most notable aspects of Armenian culture are its language (Armenian), its literature, its music and its cuisine. Armenian landscape: Lake Kari and mount Aragats In conclusion, whether you're a history buff seeking ancient ruins, an adventurer craving mountain treks, or a culture enthusiast eager to delve into unique traditions, Armenia's location promises an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, open your mind, and embark on a journey to the heart of the Caucasus. Armenia awaits, ready to unveil its magic. Gallery You May Also Like Guide in Armenia Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak

Planning to visit Armenia and explore its most beautiful religious sites? This article serves as a useful tourist guide. From the iconic Etchmiadzin Cathedral to the recently built Quba Mere Diwane Yazidi temple, each site offers a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious history and stunning architectural heritage. Discover these timeless treasures and immerse yourself in Armenia's spiritual and cultural legacy. < Back The most beautiful churches in Armenia Planning to visit Armenia and explore its most beautiful religious sites? This article serves as a useful tourist guide. From the iconic Etchmiadzin Cathedral to the recently built Quba Mere Diwane Yazidi temple, each site offers a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious history and stunning architectural heritage. Discover these timeless treasures and immerse yourself in Armenia's spiritual and cultural legacy. Etchmiadzin Cathedral Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, stands in the city known as both Etchmiadzin and Vagharshapat, Armenia. It is generally considered the first cathedral built in ancient Armenia and is often regarded as the oldest Christian cathedral in the world. Etchmiadzin Cathedral Khor Virap monastic complex Nestled amidst the stunning Armenian landscape with the majestic backdrop of Mount Ararat, Khor Virap Monastery stands as a sacred pilgrimage site. Its significance dates back to Gregory the Illuminator's 13-year imprisonment by King Tiridates III. After his release, Saint Gregory became the king's religious mentor, leading the country's proselytizing activity. In 301 AD, Armenia was declared the world's first Christian nation. A chapel was initially erected in 642 at the site of Khor Virap (Deep Pit), where Gregory the Illuminator endured 13 years of imprisonment. It was constructed by Nerses III the Builder as a mark of veneration to Saint Gregory. Over time, the chapel underwent several reconstructions. In 1662, the larger chapel known as the "St. Astvatsatsin" (Holy Mother of God) was built around the remnants of the old chapel, incorporating the monastery, refectory, and monks' cells. Khor Virap monastic complex Noravank Noravank, a 13th-century Armenian monastic complex, features the iconic Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church and Surb Karapet (St. John the Baptist) Church, nestled in a gorge renowned for its stunning red cliffs, making it a favorite destination among tourists. Khachkars and Surb Astvatsatsin Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery, a medieval complex built between the 10th and 13th centuries in Haghpat village, Armenia, is described as a "masterpiece of religious architecture and a major center of learning in the Middle Ages." Alongside Sanahin Monastery, it was listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1996. Aerial photo of Haghpat monastic complex Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Armenia, is a remarkable medieval complex renowned for its architectural and historical significance. Established in the 10th century, it features stunning examples of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture, including intricately carved churches and a notable library. Sanahin, alongside the nearby Haghpat Monastery, showcases the development of medieval Armenian art and culture. Its historical importance and exceptional preservation make it a must-visit for those on cultural tours in Armenia, offering a deep dive into ancient architecture and Armenian heritage. Sanahin Monastery Yererouk Basilica Yererouk, also known as Yereruyk or Ererouk, is a 4th–5th century Armenian church situated near the village of Anipemza in the Shirak Province of Armenia. The name "Yererouk" translates to "quivering" in Armenian. According to popular tradition, the name of the temple originated from its distinctive architectural design, which appears to quiver atop its six columns when viewed from a distance. Yererouk Basilica as seen by my camera Horomayr Monastery Horomayr Monastery, located in Lori Province, is divided into upper and lower parts, each offering breathtaking views of the Lori gorge. My personal favorite is the Lower Horomayr, situated beneath towering cliffs, accessible via a rewarding one-hour hike. Horomayr Monastery as seen by my drone Sevanavank Sevanavank is a 9th-century monastic complex situated on a peninsula of Lake Sevan in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. The complex comprises two churches: Surp Arakelots, meaning "Holy Apostles," and Surp Astvatsatsin, meaning "Holy Mother of God." Both churches feature cruciform plan structures with octagonal tambours. Sevanavank in May The world's largest Yazidi temple Quba Mere Diwane is recognized as the world's largest Yazidi temple, situated in the Armenian village of Aknalich, within the province of Armavir. This region holds significance as the Yezidi community constitutes the largest minority. The Yazidis, a sizable ethnic minority in Armenia, follow an ancient monotheistic faith with influences from Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Sufism, Zoroastrianism, and elements of Iranian paganism. Quba Mere Diwane in Aknalich village St. Nicholas in Amrakits village St. Nicholas the Wonderworker Church is a Russian Orthodox church situated in Amrakits village. Initially built in 1848, it underwent reconstruction between 1910 and 1914. Regrettably, it suffered damage during the 1988 Spitak earthquake, like many other architectural masterpieces, and has remained in disrepair since then. Thanks to its unique design, St. Nicholas attracts thousands of tourists annually The Church of Saint Arsenius the Archbishop of Serbia The Church of Saint Arsenius the Archbishop of Serbia is located in the city of Gyumri, Armenia. The church was built in the 1870s and consecrated in 1910. During Soviet times, in the 1930s, the domes were destroyed. After this, the building was used as an orphanage, a film club and a stable. Located in Gyumri city this church attracts visitors thanks to its charming design Odzun church Odzun Church is an iconic example of early medieval Armenian architecture, situated in the village of Odzun in the Lori region. Constructed between the 5th and 7th centuries, this basilica exemplifies the architectural elegance of Armenian ecclesiastical design, characterized by its distinct rectangular form and intricate stone carvings. Perched on a scenic plateau, the church offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Beyond its role as a place of worship, Odzun Church stands as a significant historical and cultural monument, embodying Armenia's rich and enduring heritage. With majestic mountains veiled by ever-present clouds, the landscape forms a truly dramatic backdrop Akhtala Monastery Aerial photo of Akhtala Monastery Akhtala, also known as Pghndzavank (Armenian: Պղնձավանք, meaning "Coppermine Monastery"), is a 10th-century Armenian Apostolic monastery located in the town of Akhtala, in the Lori Province, within the Debed Gorge, on a small plateau. The main church, dedicated to the Holy Mother of God, was built by Ivane Zakaryan in the first quarter of the 13th century. Its walls are adorned with frescoes. The two-layered, high-quality frescoes depict various episodes from the Old and New Testaments, as well as images of saints, including Gregory the Illuminator. Preserved depictions also include the apostles Peter, John, and Paul, along with the evangelists Luke and Matthew. The frescoes on the west wall portray the Kingdom of Heaven, while those on the north wall illustrate the Passion of Christ, the High Priest Caiaphas, and the Roman governor Pontius Pilate. Additionally, the arches, partitions, and columns are decorated with scriptural themes and portraits of saints. Haghartsin Monastery Haghartsin (Armenian: Հաղարծին) is a medieval Armenian monastic complex located near the town of Dilijan in the Tavush Province of Armenia. The monastery was constructed between the 10th and 13th centuries and is surrounded by forested mountains, contributing to its secluded and peaceful atmosphere. Haghartsin Monastery in winter The complex consists of three main churches: St. Astvatsatsin Church (St. Mary’s), the largest and most prominent structure St. Gregory’s Church, the oldest, built in the 10th century St. Stephen’s Church Additional buildings include a gavit (a type of narthex) and a refectory, which once served the monastic community. The name Haghartsin is popularly believed to come from the Armenian words khaghal’ (“play” or “move around”) and artsiv (“eagle”). According to tradition, during the consecration of the main church, an eagle was seen soaring above the dome—symbolizing divine presence and giving the monastery its name, often interpreted as the “Monastery of the Soaring Eagle.” Today, Haghartsin remains a significant historical and cultural site and is a popular destination for visitors to the Dilijan region. Aruchavank Monastery Aruchavank (Armenian: Արուճավանք), also known as the Cathedral of Aruch or Surb Grigor, is a 7th-century Armenian church located in the village of Aruch, in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. The church was built between 661 and 682 AD by Prince Grigor Mamikonian and his wife Heghine (Heline), as recorded in wall inscriptions and historical manuscripts by Armenian historians Ghevond, Hovhannes Draskhanakerttsi, and Stepanos Asoghik. A royal palace complex once stood nearby, the remains of which were excavated in the mid-20th century. Aruchavank is a domed hall single-nave basilica, considered one of the most important and largest churches of medieval Armenia. Although the dome and drum had collapsed due to earthquakes or possibly military use in the 16th–17th centuries, the structure was partially restored between 1946 and 1948, excluding the drum and cupola. Tatev Monastery Tatev Monastery is a 9th-century Armenian Apostolic monastery perched on the edge of the dramatic Vorotan River Gorge, near the village of Tatev in Syunik Province, southeastern Armenia. This fortified complex includes three main churches—Saints Paul and Peter Church, Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church, and the Holy Mother of God Church—as well as a library, refectory, bell tower, mausoleum, and various administrative and auxiliary buildings. In the 14th and 15th centuries, Tatev became home to the University of Tatev, one of medieval Armenia’s leading centers of learning. The university played a crucial role in the development of science, theology, and philosophy. It was also instrumental in manuscript production and the flourishing of miniature art. During a particularly turbulent chapter in Armenian history, the scholars of Tatev worked to preserve the nation's cultural and spiritual identity. Vorotnavank Monastery Vorotnavank is a medieval monastic complex located in the Syunik Province of Armenia. According to the historian Stepanos Orbelyan, the first church on the site—dedicated to Saint Gregory—was founded in the 4th century by Saint Gregory himself. It was later rebuilt by a hermit named Father Stepanos. The church became a site of pilgrimage, renowned for its miraculous power to heal snake bites. In the year 1000, Queen Shahandukht, wife of King Smbat Orbelyan of Syunik and a member of the Bagratid dynasty, built the vaulted Church of Saint Stepanos near the ruins of the original church of Saint Gregory. In 1007, her younger son, Prince Sevada—brother of King Vasak of Syunik—constructed the Church of Surb Karapet (Saint John the Baptist). The monastery endured invasions by the Seljuks and the Mongol-Tatars under Tamerlane. Though it was restored several times afterward, it suffered significant damage during the 1931 earthquake. Vorotnavank also served as a center of Armenian scholarship and manuscript writing. Prominent figures such as the philosopher Hovhan Vorotnetsi, Grigor Tatevatsi, and others lived and worked here, contributing to the intellectual and spiritual life of medieval Armenia. 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In this article, I’ve compiled a selection of well-known and beloved mountaineering quotes that climbers often use in conversation or for self-inspiration. < Back Best Climbing Quotes In this article, I’ve compiled a selection of well-known and beloved mountaineering quotes that climbers often use in conversation or for self-inspiration. "A man at the top of a mountain didn’t fall there from the sky."- Confucius “The summit is always further than you think.” - Unknown “The climber is not the one who can climb, but the one who can descend.” - Unknown "Why climb Mount Everest? Because it’s there." - George Mellory "Mountains are not fair or unfair, they are just dangerous." – Reinhold Messner “Getting to the summit is optional, getting down is mandatory.” – Ed Viesturs “The experienced mountain climber is not intimidated by a mountain – he is inspired by it.” – William Arthur Ward “The best view comes after the hardest climb.” – Unknown "When preparing to climb a mountain, pack a light heart.”– Dan May “Life’s a bit like mountaineering - never look down.” - Edmund Hillary “Mountains are not stadiums where I satisfy my ambition to achieve, they are the cathedrals where I practice my religion.” - Anatoli Boukreev "Every mountain top is within reach if you just keep climbing.” – Barry Finlay "Mountains have a way of dealing with overconfidence.”– Hermann Buhl "The only mountains that are better are the ones you haven't been to yet." - Vladimir Vysotsky Gallery You May Also Like Guide in Armenia Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak

The Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico and the ROT54 telescope in Armenia are connected in their shared purpose of advancing radio astronomy and space science, albeit with differences in scale, design, and focus. Both installations were pioneers in radio astronomy, leveraging fixed spherical dishes to achieve high sensitivity for observing faint objects. However, they were built independently, with different designs and under distinct geopolitical contexts. Let’s talk about these scientific marvels which are now echoes of the bygone past. < Back From Arecibo Observatory to Herouni Telescope in Armenia The Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico and the ROT54 telescope in Armenia are connected in their shared purpose of advancing radio astronomy and space science, albeit with differences in scale, design, and focus. Both installations were pioneers in radio astronomy, leveraging fixed spherical dishes to achieve high sensitivity for observing faint objects. However, they were built independently, with different designs and under distinct geopolitical contexts. Let’s talk about these scientific marvels which are now echoes of the bygone past. Arecibo Observatory: The Hanging Giant Completed in 1963, the Arecibo Observatory was once the largest single-aperture radio telescope in the world, featuring a vast 305-meter-wide dish embedded within a natural limestone sinkhole. Located near the city of Arecibo in Puerto Rico, it was initially designed to study the ionosphere but later became a vital tool for space exploration and radio astronomy. The observatory's design included a cable-mounted steerable receiver, along with several radar transmitters placed 150 meters above the dish. Assembly of cables supporting reflecting dish. 1963 The dish itself was fixed to the Earth, which meant it could only point to the section of the sky directly overhead. To overcome this limitation, the designers opted for a spherical dish instead of a traditional parabolic one. This choice allowed the telescope to receive signals from a broader range of angles, though it required careful adjustments for optimal functionality. Aerial view of Arecibo Observatory in December 2012 The telescope's instruments were housed on a triangular platform suspended above the dish by steel cables, supported by three reinforced concrete towers positioned at the 4, 8, and 12 o'clock positions. These cables were crucial for maintaining the platform’s position and stability. As the telescope’s capabilities expanded, additional upgrades were made, including the introduction of the Gregorian dome in 1997, which housed additional reflectors to improve signal focus. While this upgrade enhanced the telescope’s performance, it also added significant weight to the structure. To support this added load, the observatory’s engineers reinforced the system with auxiliary cables, backstays, and tie-downs to maintain the platform's stability. The beam-steering mechanism of Arecibo telescope A sophisticated laser ranging system helped adjust the tension in these cables, ensuring that the platform remained perfectly stable and aligned within millimeter precision—an essential feature for such a sensitive scientific instrument. For 53 years, from its completion in 1963 until 2016, Arecibo held the title of the world’s largest single-aperture radio telescope, until it was surpassed by the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) in Guizhou, China. Arecibo played a central role in research across several scientific domains, including radio astronomy, atmospheric science, and radar astronomy. It also contributed significantly to programs focused on detecting near-Earth objects and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). Scientists from around the world submitted research proposals for the observatory, which were rigorously evaluated by independent referees. Notably, NASA utilized Arecibo for projects like near-Earth object detection. Here is a list of key discoveries made by the Arecibo Observatory: 1967: Arecibo discovered that Mercury’s rotation rate is 59 days, not the previously estimated 88 days. 1972: The observatory was used to simultaneously heat and observe the D- and E-regions of the ionosphere. 1974: Arecibo discovered the first-ever binary pulsar, a breakthrough that earned Russell A. Hulse and Joseph H. Taylor the 1993 Nobel Prize in Physics. 1975: S-band radar observations of Mars were made to support NASA’s Viking mission. 1981: Arecibo produced the first radar maps of Venus’s surface. 1992: The observatory discovered the first-ever exoplanet, followed by the discovery of an entire planetary system around the pulsar PSR 1257+12. 1994: Arecibo mapped the distribution of polar ice on Mercury. 1996: Arecibo detected the ionized helium layer in the ionosphere. 2006: The observatory made observations of ionospheric perturbations caused by a tropical storm. 2008: Arecibo detected methanimine and hydrogen cyanide molecules in a galaxy 250 million light-years away—key ingredients for forming amino acids. 2016: The observatory discovered the first-ever repeating fast radio burst, which showed that the source of the burst survives, ruling out certain models of catastrophic explosions. 2017: Arecibo discovered two pulsars that intermittently vanish and reappear, challenging the belief that pulsars are consistent, orderly timekeepers. These discoveries underscore Arecibo's vital contributions to radio astronomy and space exploration. Arecibo Observatory's collapse! Credits: Arecibo Observatory and U.S. National Science Foundation Facility In the early 2000s, NASA began to reduce its funding for the Arecibo Observatory, which increased pressure on the National Science Foundation (NSF) to maintain financial support. In 2006, the NSF first suggested the possibility of significantly reducing its funding and potentially decommissioning the observatory. In 2017, damage to the telescope from Hurricane Maria prompted the NSF to reconsider decommissioning due to the growing costs of maintenance. Following a series of cable failures in August and November 2020, the NSF announced its decision to decommission the telescope via controlled demolition, although other facilities at the observatory would remain operational. The Arecibo Telescope during demolition process, December 2021 Before demolition could proceed safely, additional support cables at the Arecibo Observatory failed on December 1, 2020, at 7:55 A.M. local time, triggering a catastrophic collapse. In under 30 seconds, a supporting cable from one of the three towers broke, weakened by years of corrosion and moisture. This led to the suspended antenna falling more than 500 feet (150 meters) into the dish below, causing extensive damage to the telescope. The collapse marked a significant blow to the observatory, just months after an earlier cable failure had prompted the decision to decommission the facility The observatory’s distinctive and futuristic design captured public imagination, leading to its inclusion in several film, television, and video game productions. It is famously featured in the climactic scene of the 1995 James Bond film GoldenEye. Furthermore, Arecibo is one of the 116 images included in the Voyager Golden Record, a collection of humanity’s achievements launched into space on the Voyager spacecraft. Since 2008, it has been listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significant contributions to science and popular culture. ROT54: Armenia’s Celestial Eye The ROT54 telescope in Armenia represents a distinct chapter in the history of astronomical exploration. Built during the Soviet era, this 54-meter radio telescope was designed to study astrophysical phenomena such as pulsars and cosmic microwave background radiation. Located in Orgov village, on the south slopes of Mount Aragats, Armenia’s tallest peak, the telescope’s position provided an exceptional vantage point for observing the universe. The construction process of ROT54 telescope in Orgov village Constructed between 1975 and 1985, ROT54 became operational in 1986, continuing its work until 1990, when financial and technical challenges led to its deactivation. A proposal to restore the facility emerged in the mid-1990s, leading to a modernization phase between 1995 and 2010. This upgrade included the installation of new control computers and updated feeds, and operations resumed in collaboration with the Astronomical Society of Russia and the National Technical University of Athens. However, in 2012, operations were halted again after a control arm failure immobilized the secondary mirror. Herouni Mirror Radio Telescope (Зеркальный радиотелескоп геруни) Patent No. 1377941 ROT54 is composed of 4,000 mirrors and features a large two-mirror antenna with a 54-meter diameter, complemented by an optical telescope with a 2.6-meter diameter. During its operational years, the telescope made significant contributions to astrophysics. For instance, in 1985, it recorded a powerful radio flare from the red giant star Eta Gemini, a phenomenon that had never been observed before. The telescope's high sensitivity enabled it to detect faint radio emissions from distant stars and galaxies, contributing valuable data to the scientific community. Additionally, ROT54’s remarkably low noise levels allowed its creator, Paris Herouni, to challenge prevailing cosmological theories. Notably, it was used to investigate the existence of the "relic background" and to test the Big Bang theory. Aerial footage of ROT54 Similarities and Contrasts Both Arecibo and ROT54 are prime examples of the power of large-scale radio telescopes in expanding our understanding of the cosmos. The two observatories had their own destiny, however: Arecibo gained worldwide recognition for its groundbreaking discoveries, while ROT54 operated quietly within the Soviet Union, largely unnoticed by the rest of the world. Me sitting in the control room of ROT54 Conclusion The Arecibo Observatory and ROT54 telescope are monuments to human curiosity, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge. Arecibo’s legacy lives on in the annals of space exploration, while ROT54 continues to inspire as a relic of Soviet ingenuity and Armenian heritage. Together, these observatories highlight humanity’s unyielding quest to understand the universe, and their enduring appeal ensures that the search for knowledge remains a universal endeavor. 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