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The 1977 robbery of the State Bank of the Armenian SSR remains one of the most audacious and infamous crimes in Soviet history. This heist, carried out by cousins Nikolai Sarkisovich Kalachyan and Felix Kalachyan, resulted in the theft of 1.5 million Soviet rubles—equivalent to roughly two million U.S. dollars at the time. It was not only the largest theft from a state institution in Soviet history but also a crime that captured the public’s imagination with its high stakes and dramatic resolution. Ultimately, both cousins were sentenced to death for their roles in the crime. < Back The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The 1977 robbery of the State Bank of the Armenian SSR remains one of the most audacious and infamous crimes in Soviet history. This heist, carried out by cousins Nikolai Sarkisovich Kalachyan and Felix Kalachyan, resulted in the theft of 1.5 million Soviet rubles—equivalent to roughly two million U.S. dollars at the time. It was not only the largest theft from a state institution in Soviet history but also a crime that captured the public’s imagination with its high stakes and dramatic resolution. Ultimately, both cousins were sentenced to death for their roles in the crime. Nikolai Kalachyan, born in 1951 in Borodino, Krasnoyarsk Krai, had a troubled upbringing. His family’s financial difficulties, primarily due to his father’s illness, left them destitute. Nikolai’s early years were marked by instability—he ran away to join a gypsy camp, dabbled in drug trafficking, and worked as a trash collector. With only a basic education and training as a turner, Nikolai turned to crime. His first successful robbery involved breaking into a savings bank by creating a hole in the wall. The crime went unsolved, and the stolen money was quickly squandered. Brothers Felix and Nikolai Kalachian Felix Kalachyan, on the other hand, was born in the village of Kazanchi in the Ashotsk district. After finishing school, he moved to Leninakan (now Gyumri), where he married and became a father of two. Working as a janitor, Felix struggled to provide for his family. Despite his humble profession, Felix had an athletic background—he was a skilled gymnast with the title of Candidate for Master of Sports. Nikolai convinced Felix to join him in a life of crime, and together they robbed an electronics store by dismantling a wall. They sold the stolen goods for 15,000 rubles, some of which Felix sent to his family, while the rest was spent on a spree in Moscow. Meanwhile, the director of the store from which the Kalachyans stole the tape recorders, for some reason, did not go to the police: the brothers got away with this crime. According to Nikolai, the director's silence was explained by the fact that the stolen tape recorders were unaccounted goods and were intended for illegal sale. Yerevan branch of the State Bank of the USSR Their next target was far more ambitious: the State Bank of the Armenian SSR in Yerevan. Nikolai’s plan relied on insider information provided by a bank employee and close associate, Zaven Bagdasaryan, who had direct access to the vault during routine inspections. Zaven, a member of the commission tasked with recounting the money stored in the Yerevan branch of the State Bank, was deeply impressed by the enormous sums he encountered in the vault. He informed the Kalachyan brothers that approximately 100 million rubles were stored at the branch and proposed a bold plan: to steal it. Bagdasaryan described the setup in detail. The cash was stacked on several shelves inside a small room on the second floor. The bank itself was housed in a three-story building dating back to the 1930s, constructed by prisoners using volcanic tuff—a relatively fragile material. This architectural vulnerability made breaking into the vault plausible. Initially, the Kalachyan brothers hesitated, deeming the risk too great. However, after three months of deliberation, they decided to proceed. The operation, to be executed by the nimble Felix, took several additional months of meticulous planning. Bagdasaryan even sketched detailed blueprints of the bank’s layout, including the walls, floors, and alarm systems, to aid in the preparations. The open window of the bank through which Felix entered Disguised as an artist, Nikolai began frequenting the streets near the bank. He casually passed by the branch repeatedly, observing every detail of its operations. During his surveillance, he noted that the bank shared its ground floor with a police station. However, his observations revealed that only a couple of officers were on duty during weekends, prompting the brothers to schedule the heist for a summer weekend. By early August, the plan had been refined to the smallest detail. Felix was tasked with breaking through the wall on the third floor, which adjoined a residential building, and gaining access to the bank employees' break room. From there, he intended to drill a hole in the floor and descend directly into the vault where the money was stored. Every aspect of the operation was meticulously planned—even down to bringing three bottles of mineral water so Felix could stay hydrated in the summer heat and cool the drills. A seemingly ordinary item—a simple umbrella—was crucial to their plan. According to Nikolai’s design, Felix was to drill a small hole in the floor, insert the umbrella through it, open it, and continue drilling. This would catch falling debris, muffling the sound and minimizing mess. However, shortly before the heist, Nikolai was involved in a car accident and hospitalized. Despite this setback, he remained undeterred. After consulting with Felix, Nikolai decided to proceed with the plan and coordinated the robbery from his hospital bed. The hand drill used by Felix Kalachyan On the evening of August 5, 1977, Felix packs a backpack with all the necessary tools—a hand drill, rope, hammer, saw, flashlight, and an umbrella—and enters a residential building that shares a wall with the State Bank. He gets to work. He spends the entire night trying to drill through the wall but fails to break through. The next day, he returns and comes up with a new plan. He notices that the window of the bank’s staff break room is not secured. Due to ongoing renovations, it is covered only with a sheet of polyethylene. He decides to take an extraordinary risk: from the roof of a neighboring building, he sprints and leaps across—miraculously landing on the roof of the bank. From there, gaining access to the upper floor above the vault proves relatively easy. The second phase of the plan went flawlessly. Felix drilled a 34-centimeter hole in the floor and used a rope secured to a steel bar to lower himself into the vault. There, he retrieved two bags of cash totaling 1.5 million rubles—equivalent to approximately 100 million rubles today. Carefully packing the money into a backpack, which ultimately weighed around 32 kilograms, Felix climbed out through the break room window, descended the rope, and slipped away unnoticed as dawn broke on Sunday morning. All the tools were left behind at the scene. A 34-centimeter-diameter hole in the floor of the rest room, made by Felix Kalachyan Felix’s first stop was the hospital to meet his brother. Overjoyed by the success, Nikolai discharged himself the same day. The brothers then retreated to a rented apartment where they hid the loot. While examining the cash, Nikolai noticed a critical detail: most of the 100-ruble notes bore the same serial series—AI. Recognizing the potential for these notes to trace back to them, Nikolai instructed Felix and Zaven not to spend the AI-series bills. His caution proved prescient. Meanwhile the investigators quickly established the method by which the thief had entered the bank building: the trick of jumping through a window, under which a tarpaulin was stretched for safety, was repeated by the detectives themselves. Despite this breakthrough, the investigation soon hit a dead end, leaving the case at a standstill. Felix Kalachian during investigative experiments Upon learning of the audacious heist, General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev took personal interest in the case and ordered a nationwide alert. Directives were sent to all savings banks across the Soviet Union, instructing staff to report any transactions involving AI-series 100-ruble notes. Following the robbery, the cousins fled to Moscow. Kalachyan brothers spent all the small bills rather quickly and began to think about what to do with packs of hundred-ruble notes. Nikolai found a way out: he suggested buying three-percent government loan bonds with them, for which they could then get “normal” money. However, the thieves were not going to go to the savings banks themselves. Nikolai Kalachian during investigative experiments There, Nikolai met Ludmila Viktorovna Aksyonova, whose brother, Vladimir Kuznetsov, was a taxi driver. Vladimir was unwittingly drawn into their scheme, tasked with purchasing bonds using stolen 100-ruble notes. To avoid suspicion, Nikolai claimed he needed the bonds to fund an elaborate wedding to Ludmila. Vladimir, unaware of the robbery, agreed to help. However, the stolen money bore a critical flaw: most of the 100-ruble notes shared the same serial series, "AI." Soviet authorities had issued a nationwide alert to all savings banks, instructing employees to report any transactions involving such notes. Kuznetsov agreed to help his future relative. He bought the first batch of securities in several trips in Tashkent, spending about 24 thousand rubles. To the delight of the criminals, Vladimir came across inattentive savings bank employees. Because of this, the criminal investigation officers did not immediately find out that the AI series banknotes had surfaced in the Uzbek SSR. By the time investigators reached Tashkent, Kuznetsov had already fled the country. Meanwhile, the Kalachyan brothers decided to relocate to Sochi. Nikolai purchased a used green Zhiguli (some sources suggest it was a Moskvich) for 13,000 rubles at the market near Moscow's Southern River Port. To maintain their cover, he registered the car under Lyudmila's name. Vladimir’s downfall came when he attempted to purchase 6,000 rubles’ worth of bonds in a Moscow savings bank. The cashier, suspicious of the large sum, pretended to retrieve additional bonds from the vault but instead contacted the police. Spooked, Vladimir fled, but the cashier had already noted his appearance and the license plate of his green Zhiguli car. Police tracked the vehicle to an apartment building on Leninsky Prospekt, where the Kalachyans were staying. On the night of June 7, 1978, law enforcement arrested Nikolai, Felix, and Vladimir. More than 800 thousand rubles of the money stolen from the Yerevan bank were found in the dismantled wheel. The criminals buried the remaining 100 thousand rubles under a house in Leninakan. By then, the criminals had already spent 600,000 rubles of the stolen money. The trial was swift, and the sentence was harsh. Nikolai and Felix Kalachyan were sentenced to death, while Zaven Bagdasaryan received 11 years in a maximum-security prison. Vladimir Kuznetsov, who played a secondary role, received a lighter sentence. Nikolai's mother, who had barely survived the death of her husband, never learned the court's verdict: upon hearing the charges against her son, she fell gravely ill and soon passed away. But the death penalty for two young men, one of whom was a father of two children, seemed excessive to the Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the Armenian SSR Babken Sarkisov. The official appealed to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR with a request to pardon the brothers: they considered Sarkisov's arguments reasonable and granted the request. However, the papers that could have saved the Kalachyans arrived in Yerevan with a fatal delay. By the time the documents finally reached the prison, it was discovered that Felix and Nikolai had been executed the day before. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

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. < Back 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. The Yerevan Thermal Power Plant (CHP) was commissioned in 1963 and initially operated on coal. Following subsequent modernizations, it transitioned to natural gas, rendering the old cooling towers obsolete. The cooling towers are creating an apocalyptic backdrop Currently, only four cooling towers remain, as two were dismantled between 2011 and 2012. Constructed from reinforced concrete with wooden decking, these cooling towers possess an epic aesthetic that appeals to urban photographers. A look at the sky while standing inside the cooling tower A rusty staircase provides access to the upper levels. As of spring 2024, the entrances to 3 cooling towers were locked, with only one tower accessible. Nearby structures, potentially control rooms, were not explored during this visit. Although there is security at the checkpoint, fortunately, there was no encounter with them on that particular day. 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia 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 Previous Next

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. < Back 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. This sanatorium was specifically built for the workers of a cable-producing factory. Architecturally, it resembles a fortress, featuring bold geometric forms, tower-like structures, striking staircases, and an overall sense of solidity and permanence. The interior, however, is no less striking. Despite being out of use for decades, the building has remained in relatively good condition thanks to security on site. Inside, the ceilings, chandeliers, and ceramic bas-reliefs leave a lasting impression. Among these, two ceramic bas-reliefs stood out to me as true masterpieces This one depicts a plough pulled by oxen beneath a shining sun. Below, a bundle of wheat and a goat’s head appear — ancient symbols deeply rooted in Armenian tradition. The goat’s head, in particular, has been revered for centuries and is one of the most frequently encountered motifs in Armenian petroglyphs. In the right corner of the panel, ears of wheat and a jar add to the agricultural theme, while at the center a decorative ornament recalls the intricate patterns of Armenian stone carving. The other ceramic bas-relief also left a strong impression on me. At its center is the Armenian eternity symbol, while the sun shines at the top. In the upper left corner, a fisherman is casting his net, and in the upper right corner stands an Armenian church. The lower left panel depicts a ship, whereas the lower right panel shows a fish with a star above its head. For me, these bas-reliefs were more than mere decorations; they served as a reminder of how art, history, and daily life were once intertwined — even in a sanatorium originally built for factory workers. Very often I refrain from mentioning the architect’s name in my articles, since it makes the location too easy to identify. This time as well, I won’t publish it. 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia 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 Previous Next

This article is about Che Guevara’s solo trip across central and northern Argentina on a motorized bicycle, covering a distance of approximately 4,000 miles. It ignited a stronger passion within the heart of the young explorer and unfolded new horizons for him. This marked only the commencement of his unfolding journey. < Back Che Guevara's first journey on a motorized bicycle This article is about Che Guevara’s solo trip across central and northern Argentina on a motorized bicycle, covering a distance of approximately 4,000 miles. It ignited a stronger passion within the heart of the young explorer and unfolded new horizons for him. This marked only the commencement of his unfolding journey. From early childhood, Ernesto "Che" Guevara loved to travel. His father wrote that with time he came to understand that "his obsession with traveling was just another part of his zeal for learning" (Guevara 1995:2). Ernesto's first noteworthy journey on his own took place in 1950 when he toured all of central and northern Argentina on a motorized bicycle - a trip of some 4,000 miles (Gambini 1968:22). At the time, he was 21 and a medical student at the University of Buenos Aires. It was a bicycle on which he had installed a small engine. During his journey, he stopped in Córdoba to visit his friends Tomás and Alberto Granado. Alberto was conducting research on lepers at a leprosarium near San Francisco del Chañar, and Ernesto, intrigued by his work, spent several days with him there. Che Guevara setting out on a 2,800 mile solo motorbike trip through the Argentine Northwest in 1950 From there, he headed north and encountered an interesting assortment of hobos, vagabonds, seasonal workers, poor indigenous inhabitants, and other socially marginalized people. He often stayed overnight in police stations and provincial hospitals, asking if he could sleep in vacant jail cells or empty hospital beds. As a result, "for the first time in his adult life, Ernesto witnessed the harsh duality of his country by crossing the divide from its transported European culture, which was also his culture, and...its ignored, backward, indigenous heartland" (Anderson 1997:63). Guevara relied upon the hospitality of strangers, a pattern that continued in his later travels with Granado. For example, after a puncture, he flagged down a lorry to take him to his next destination. In another instance, in Loreto, he sought hospitality from a local police officer when he had nowhere to stay. The trip influenced Guevara's style of traveling, as seen in the Motorcycle Diaries. For the young Guevara, the journey was an education. The motorized bicycle now at a Che museum in Alta Gracia, Argentina Upon returning to Buenos Aires, Ernesto took the motorbike back to the store where he bought it for reconditioning. When the store owner learned the details of the trip, he was astounded and asked Ernesto to provide a letter attesting to his fantastic journey using that particular brand of motorbike. This letter, along with a picture of Ernesto sitting on his motorbike, was published in a local sports magazine as an advertisement for that type of motorbike (Taibo 1996:35). They claimed it was very sturdy, given that Guevara had completed such a long tour using its power. The success of his Argentinian travels sparked in him a desire to explore the world more attentively and initiated the planning of new travel adventures. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

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 How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

This article sheds light on Armenian inventors who have made noteworthy contributions to humanity. They serve as examples of how creativity, curiosity, and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements. Let's celebrate their legacy and honor their memory by learning from their inventions and discoveries and making practical use of them! < Back Famous Armenian Inventors This article sheds light on Armenian inventors who have made noteworthy contributions to humanity. They serve as examples of how creativity, curiosity, and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements. Let's celebrate their legacy and honor their memory by learning from their inventions and discoveries and making practical use of them! Since the greatest human invention is widely regarded as the alphabet, I decided to start this list with Mesrop Mashtots! Statues of Mesrop Mashtots and his student Koryun in front of Matenadaran Regarded as the father of the Armenian alphabet (405 AD), Mesrop Mashtots created one of the earliest alphabets globally. He is also considered to be the creator of the Caucasian Albanian and Georgian alphabets by a number of scholars. Raymond Vahan Damadian with the machine he named 'Indomitable,' which made the world's first MRI scan on July 3, 1977. (This picture was taken at the Smithsonian Institution Exhibit in 1986) Raymond Vahan Damadian was an American-Armenia physician, medical practitioner, and the inventor of the first NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) scanning machine. Damadian's research into sodium and potassium in living cells led him to his first experiments with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), which prompted him to propose the MR body scanner in 1969. His discovery that tumors and normal tissue can be distinguished in vivo by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) due to their prolonged relaxation times, both T1 (spin-lattice relaxation) or T2 (spin-spin relaxation), laid the foundation for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In 1977, Damadian performed the first full-body scan of a human being to diagnose cancer, using the method he invented. Throughout his career, Damadian received several prizes for his groundbreaking contributions. In 2001, the Lemelson-MIT Prize Program honored him with its $100,000 Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing him as "the man who invented the MRI scanner. Luther George Simjian Known as the "Father of the ATM," Simjian designed the first automated teller machine, changing how we access cash. With over 200 patents, primarily related to optics and electronics, his contributions include a pioneering flight simulator and improvements to the teleprompter. Artem Mikoyan An aeronautical mastermind, Mikoyan co-founded the MiG aircraft design bureau, responsible for some of the world's most iconic fighter jets. Under his leadership (together with M.I. Gurevich and V.A. Romodin), the MiG-1 and MiG-3 fighter aircraft that participated in the Great Patriotic War were created. After the war, the Mikoyan Design Bureau developed the MiG-15, MiG-17, MiG-19, MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-25, MiG-27, and MiG-29 fighters. A total of 55 world records were set on Mikoyan Design Bureau aircraft. Oscar H. Banker (born Asatour Sarafian) Asatour Sarafian, an Armenian-American inventor, patented various works, including an automatic transmission for automobiles, a needleless inoculation gun, the primary controls of the first Sikorsky helicopter, and power steering. Known as the "Ice Cream Cone King," Tatosian patented the first waffle cone mold, enhancing the enjoyment of the quintessential summertime treat. Waffle cones were hand-rolled until 1912 when Frederick Bruckman is believed to have invented a rolling machine. In 1923, Harry G. Tatosian secured a U.S. patent for a machine to roll ice cream cones. In 1924, Carl R. Taylor received a U.S. patent for a machine that, in conjunction with a wafer baking machine, rolled cones from hot waffles, simultaneously cooling them. Here is a list of patents related to various machines: Melba toast making machine (thin slice of toasted bread, patent US2349583A) Ice cream cone forming and placing machine (US1804039A) Ice cream cone rolling machine (US1576011A) Cake making and forming machine (US2321634A) Cooking method Melba Toast Maker (US2349582A) Iron Cake Baking Machine (US2029448A) Toast Maker (US2514977A) Sugar Cone Baking Machine (US1540041A) Iron Baking Machine and Stripper (US1936649A) Baking Machine (US1936649A) Cake transfer machine (US2722178A) Ice cream cone rolling machine (second patent, US1440851A) Sugar cone making machine (US2213727A) Endless ribbon blade bread slicer (US2569545A) Ice cream machine (US1765464A) Pastry cone design (USD64482S) Cake Making and Forming Machine (CA413727A) Sarkis Acopian (1947) Sarkis Akopian studied mechanical engineering at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, before leaving to serve in the United States Army. After receiving an honorable discharge, he graduated from Lafayette with a B.S. in mechanical engineering. After graduation, Akopian joined Weller Electric Corp., where he designed a power sander and a soldering gun, which later became their main products. Motivated by his success, he founded Acopian Technical Company in 1957 with a small loan. There, he designed and manufactured the first solar radio, promoted as "Revolutionary – No Batteries or Outside Electrical Plug-ins – Uses light for its source of energy." In 1960, the company began manufacturing low-cost, plug-in regulated power supplies utilizing vacuum tubes. Akopian's inventions include engine power supplies, air and fuel purification devices, and electrical energy converters. Hovannes Adamian An Armenian engineer and inventor of more than 20 creations, Adamian played a crucial role in the development of color television. The first experimental color television, based on Adamian's tricolor principle, was showcased in London in 1928, marking him as one of the founders of color television. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

Vesna Vulović's incredible tale unfolds on January 26, 1972, when a Yugoslav Airlines flight tragically exploded mid-air. As the sole survivor of the highest fall without a parachute, Vulović's journey of resilience captivates the world. Despite severe injuries, her remarkable recovery defied medical predictions. Recognized by Guinness World Records, her legacy continues to inspire, emphasizing the unwavering strength of the human spirit. Vulović's story stands as a testament to survival against all odds and the enduring power of hope. < Back Vesna Vulovic – she survived the highest fall without a parachute Vesna Vulović's incredible tale unfolds on January 26, 1972, when a Yugoslav Airlines flight tragically exploded mid-air. As the sole survivor of the highest fall without a parachute, Vulović's journey of resilience captivates the world. Despite severe injuries, her remarkable recovery defied medical predictions. Recognized by Guinness World Records, her legacy continues to inspire, emphasizing the unwavering strength of the human spirit. Vulović's story stands as a testament to survival against all odds and the enduring power of hope. On January 26, 1972, a Yugoslav Airlines Douglas DC-9 aircraft carrying 28 passengers and crew members embarked on a seemingly routine flight from Zagreb, Croatia, to Belgrade, Serbia. However, tragedy struck near Srbská Kamenice, Czechoslovakia, when a bomb ripped through the fuselage, tearing the plane apart at 33,000 feet (10km). Miraculously, amidst the debris and despair, one life defied the odds: Vesna Vulović, a 23-year-old flight attendant, survived a fall that would forever etch her name in aviation history. A JAT Airways McDonnell Douglas DC-9 like the one destroyed by the explosion Vulović's exact position during the explosion remains unclear, but she is believed to have been strapped into her jump seat in the tail section, which remained relatively intact after the fuselage disintegrated. This, combined with the fortuitous landing in a snow-covered forest, cushioned the impact, absorbing some of the devastating force. However, her injuries were horrific: a fractured skull, broken legs and vertebrae, and internal bleeding. Vesna Vulovic in hospital Local villager Bruno Honke, a former World War II medic, discovered Vulović still breathing amidst the wreckage. Despite the remoteness and harsh conditions, he administered crucial first aid, paving the way for her eventual rescue. She spent 27 days in a coma, defying medical predictions of her inevitable demise. When she finally awakened, she had no memory of the accident or the month that followed. According to Vesna Vulovich herself, the first thing she asked, when she regained consciousness, was to smoke. Paul McCartney and Vesna Vulovic The treatment took 16 months, of which during 10 months the girl was paralyzed in the lower part of the body (from the waist to the legs). Vulović's remarkable recovery surprised both medical professionals and the world. Though she sustained permanent injuries, including partial paralysis and limited mobility, she eventually relearned to walk. Her story captured international attention, becoming a symbol of human resilience and defying the perceived limits of survival. The cause of the explosion remains officially undetermined, leaving room for speculation and conspiracy theories. Nevertheless, Vulović's survival stands as a testament to the extraordinary tenacity of human life and the unpredictable twists of fate. Vesna Vulović's story continues to inspire awe and curiosity. Despite shying away from the limelight, she embraced her unique place in history. She went on to work for JAT Yugoslav Airlines for another 27 years, eventually retiring as a supervisor. In 2009, she was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records as the person who survived the highest fall without a parachute. While Vulović passed away in 2016 at the age of 66, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the human spirit's capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. It is a testament to the power of chance, the importance of timely intervention, and the sheer strength of the will to live. Vesna Vulović's miracle serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of immense adversity, survival can sometimes defy all expectations. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

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. < Back 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. Gyumri railway station is the oldest in Armenia and the main station of the city of Gyumri. Established in 1897, the first train arrived from Tbilisi to Alexandropol (now Gyumri) on February 7, 1899, at 12:00 PM, connecting the largest city of the Yerevan province to the broader world. On that day, the Tbilisi-Alexandropol railway was inaugurated. By July 21 of the same year, the railway extended to Kars, and on December 6, 1902, it reached Yerevan station. Constructing the railway to Alexandropol was an ambitious project, given the challenging terrain. Emperor Nicholas II allocated 320 million rubles for the railway's construction, a substantial sum at that time. The facade of the building is adorned with a large bas-relief titled Victory, created by sculptors Sargis Yukhanyan and Yerem Vardanyan, with architect Rafik Yeghoyan The railway spans over 250 kilometers and was constructed in a remarkably short period, with construction beginning in 1896 and concluding in 1899. The current station building was constructed between 1974 and 1979, designed by Rafik Yeghoyan. The large chandelier in the middle of the building was created by Hovhannes Madoyan. The building is one of the finest examples of Soviet modernism in the city, known for its unique architectural style. It serves as a welcoming landmark for visitors to this city of arts and crafts. The jewel of this railway station is the stained glass window adorning the dome Located on the site of an old building on the eastern side of the station square, the station can simultaneously service three passenger trains on high platforms, each 450 meters long, covered with a lightweight aluminum canopy. The building has a reinforced concrete frame, and the walls are made of Ani tuff masonry. The façade of the building is adorned with a large and impressive bas-relief. The central part features a prominent dome with an impressive colored stained glass design, 18 meters in diameter, supported by intersecting arches, while a 30-meter-high tower with a clock decorated with gilded zodiac signs rises on the left. Inside Gyumri Railway Station In Soviet times, the first floor housed the operations hall, passenger waiting areas, a buffet with ancillary rooms, customs services, administrative offices, and baggage facilities. The second floor included a 120-seat restaurant, a cinema hall, rest rooms with 50 beds, and a nursery with 25 beds. A huge fresco in the restaurant area is now covered with wooden boards. Today, the second floor mainly serves as administrative offices. The two stairways leading to the second floor are decorated with frescoes depicting themes of Gyumri's life and landscapes. 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia 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 Previous Next

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. < Back 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. We were on an urbex mission with G. Mattu when he suddenly said, “Drive this way — I’ve got something special for you.” My heart started racing. I knew I was about to see something remarkable. And I wasn’t wrong. The thick vegetation was surrounding the restaurant... We parked the car on an uneven road and continued on foot. The buildings around us looked unremarkable, but I trusted him. We entered a round structure and — oh my god — it was the work of Eduard Beroyan, the very piece I’d seen earlier on Mattu’s Instagram. The unique design of the restaurant hall made a huge impression on me It turned out this place had once been a restaurant, and one of its walls was adorned with a stunning clay bas-relief by the talented ceramist Beroyan. Remarkably, the artwork was still in good condition, with only minor damage. Eduard Beroyan’s bas-relief adorned the wall, leaving a powerful impression 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia 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 Previous Next

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”. < Back 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”. For such a small place, Shvanidzor has an unusual amount of heritage packed into its dusty streets. Medieval kahrezes — underground qanat-style water channels — still crisscross the area. Nearby you have centuries-old churches like Gyumerants and St. Stepanos (17th–19th centuries), and the older Berdikar Church dating back to the 12th–13th centuries. There’s even a 16th-century aqueduct and a 17th-century stone bridge quietly holding its ground. On the way, we stopped at a viewpoint where a beautiful view opens up over the Araks River, which forms the border between Armenia and Iran. And then there’s the culture house — the reason I came. In Armenian villages, culture houses are frozen Soviet memories — architectural relics that still reflect the style and spirit of that era. Shvanidzor’s, however, has a special charm. When we arrived, we found the door literally tied shut with twisted wires wrapped around the metal rings. But curiosity won, and I went inside. The interior of the Shvanidzor Culture House The moment I stepped into the main hall, I just stopped. The space hit me with its size, symmetry, and a strange sense of dignity. Even abandoned, the hall felt alive. I reacted like a starving kid at a table full of food — pulling out my camera, running from corner to corner, trying to catch every angle. You don’t often see culture halls like this anymore. There was one disappointment, though. I knew the projection room once had vintage Soviet posters — the kind that survive for decades in the dark. But they were gone. The projector room of the Shvanidzor Culture House Sadly, this is becoming a pattern. With tourism rising across Armenia, especially among visitors exploring Soviet heritage and urbex sites, old posters have started disappearing. Rumor has it they have high demand on the black market. As I’m writing this article at the end of 2025, the situation is shifting again. The village school is now being renovated, so classes are taking place right inside the culture house — on the stage. Kids are reciting their lessons where concerts and performances once happened. It’s oddly fitting: the building is stepping back into its original purpose, even if in an unexpected way. 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia 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 Previous Next

As a professional hiking guide who leads dozens of trips to Mount Azhdahak every year, I can confidently recommend this hike. If I had to suggest just one hike in Armenia, it would be either the Northern Summit of Mount Aragats or Mount Azhdahak—depending on your physical condition and priorities, since both are priced the same. Mount Azhdahak offers wide panoramic views and a unique crater lake at an elevation of 3,500 meters. On warm days, adventurous hikers can even swim in the cold, refreshing water, making the experience truly unforgettable. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers, the Mount Azhdahak trek is a must-do in Armenia. Book a guided tour and take on one of the country’s top hiking adventures. < Back Hiking Tour to Mount Azhdahak — The Best Trail in Armenia As a professional hiking guide who leads dozens of trips to Mount Azhdahak every year, I can confidently recommend this hike. If I had to suggest just one hike in Armenia, it would be either the Northern Summit of Mount Aragats or Mount Azhdahak—depending on your physical condition and priorities, since both are priced the same. Mount Azhdahak offers wide panoramic views and a unique crater lake at an elevation of 3,500 meters. On warm days, adventurous hikers can even swim in the cold, refreshing water, making the experience truly unforgettable. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers, the Mount Azhdahak trek is a must-do in Armenia. Book a guided tour and take on one of the country’s top hiking adventures. 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 Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LearoosO9E For more details or to book a tour, feel free to contact me directly via WhatsApp or Telegram for a quick response! Project Gallery You May Also Like A Unique Tour to Armenia’s Hidden Cold War Radio Center From Yerevan to Mount Aragats Tour to Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Climb Mount Artanish & Explore Sevanavank Monastery Urbex Tour to the Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Observatory Hiking from Lake Parz to Gosh Village Urbex Tour to ROT54 – Explore Armenia’s Most Fascinating Abandoned Place Hike Armenia by choosing the popular Smbataberd trail Previous Next

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. < Back 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. In Soviet times, there were 200 pioneer camps in Armenia, but after the collapse of the Soviet Union, only about 10 of them managed to survive. These pioneer camps were mainly located outside the cities, nestled in the woods. Today, these once vibrant places have become abandoned, with thick bushes overgrown around them, making them perfect for urban explorations. As you approach the pioneer camp, an old sign catches your eye, bearing the inscription: «Պիոներ ճամբար Հեքիաթ / пионер лагер Сказка». As you can see in the photo, the old asphalt road is in poor condition. Driving there in a sedan is highly not recommended! Use a vehicle with higher clearance for a smoother ride. The “Fairy-Tale” camp was one of Armenia’s finest pioneer camps. Its official opening ceremony took place in 1985, and it operated until around 1993. The camp’s life was cut short by the 1988 earthquake, which partially destroyed its buildings and delayed renovations. By the time it reopened, the Soviet Union had collapsed, marking the end of its era. Then a huge bas-relief reveals itself, hidden behind the tree branches. Armenia, finding itself in a deep economic and energy crisis, began to suffocate. The First Karabakh War added an extra burden on the people. Locals, who had barely recovered from the 1988 earthquake, were in desperate need of firewood during the harsh winter days. The place was soon looted—windows, doors, even their frames were stripped away—leaving behind only the skeletons of once-glorious buildings. In the territory of the pioneer camp, I stumbled upon a stone hidden among the bushes with the following inscription in Armenian. I value it highly, because thanks to this inscription I was at least able to learn the date of the opening ceremony: Այստեղ 1985 թվականի հունիսի 16-ին տեղի է ունեցել «Հեքիաթ» պիոներական ճամբար-պանսիոնատի հանդիսավոր բացումը — ‘On June 16, 1985, the ceremonial opening of the ‘Fairy Tale’ Pioneer Camp-Resort took place here.’” The statues of Buratino and Malvina Thanks to a historical photo, I learned that there used to be more statues here. Now, only Buratino and Malvina remain. Buratino, as you may know, is the main character of Aleksey Nikolayevich Tolstoy’s 1936 book The Golden Key, or the Adventures of Buratino, which was inspired by Carlo Collodi’s 1883 Italian novel The Adventures of Pinocchio. A 1959 animated feature film by Soyuzmultfilm made these characters especially popular in the Soviet Union. The statue of Medz Mher, one of the central figures from the Armenian epic “Daredevils of Sassoun”, stands proudly here. Known for his extraordinary strength, Medz Mher killed the lion with his bare hands that was blocking the road to Sassoun, preventing the inhabitants from starving. The statue immortalizes that legendary battle. After entering the territory through the building next to the main gates, the statue of the famous Bolshevik revolutionary can be seen in the distance. His role as a leader of the Russian Revolution in the Caucasus earned him the nickname “the Caucasian Lenin,” a reference to Vladimir Lenin himself. Today, Armenia still highly reveres his compatriot, with streets and schools continuing to bear his name. Shahumyan proudly stands atop the stairs, holding a note in his hand as if delivering a speech. The pearl of this pioneer camp is definitely the swimming pool the walls of which are covered with well preserved mosaics. It was the end of June 2020 when I went on my first urbex mission. Psychologically, going alone was challenging, but I managed to overcome my fear. I took a marshrutka (a shared minibus taxi) from Yerevan to a nearby city to begin my hike. About an hour later, I reached the camp and started exploring. I even made a detailed video—check it out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFiSI6XygIk Today, “Fairy-Tale” has become a well-known urbex destination for travelers from all over the world. Its surrounding landscape, flower-covered fields, statues, and the mosaic-covered swimming pool act like a magnet for visitors. The time has come—you should also see this beauty for yourself and take home unforgettable photos. 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia 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 Previous Next