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We received information from a local stalker that there is a fascinating fresco inside this abandoned glass factory! The time has come for exploration... < Back Exploring an Abandoned Glass Factory We received information from a local stalker that there is a fascinating fresco inside this abandoned glass factory! The time has come for exploration... There is no information about this glass factory on the internet! It is said that it ceased to operate after the collapse of the Soviet Union and was then relaunched somewhere in the 2000s, but for some reason, it stopped operating again. Today, this once-gigantic factory lies in ruins. On that day, we were lucky; there was no guard, while later we learned that several stalkers got caught while sneaking inside. The rooms were full of lamp glasses Okay, and here we are, entering the room full of lamp glasses, and on the wall, we see that long-desired fresco. It’s unknown who the author is; some say it was done by renowned Armenian artist Minas Avetisyan, who worked in that region, while others deny that idea. Anyway, it looked nice and mysterious. 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

On my urbex tours in Armenia, I often take travelers to one particular Soviet sanatorium — a place that feels like a true time capsule. Remarkably, it is still operating today, combining striking architectural design with a range of healing procedures. While we usually focus on the exploration side and don’t take part in the treatments, those who are curious can certainly arrange to experience them. < Back The Soviet-Era Sanatorium in Armenia Built by German Prisoners of War On my urbex tours in Armenia, I often take travelers to one particular Soviet sanatorium — a place that feels like a true time capsule. Remarkably, it is still operating today, combining striking architectural design with a range of healing procedures. While we usually focus on the exploration side and don’t take part in the treatments, those who are curious can certainly arrange to experience them. The history of this sanatorium is closely tied to World War II. During and after the war, thousands of German prisoners of war were brought to Armenia to take part in labor projects. At their peak, around 16,160 POWs from 18 different nations were held in ten camps across the country. Among them was the Austrian zoologist, ethologist, and ornithologist Konrad Lorenz , who would later win the 1973 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine together with Nikolaas Tinbergen and Karl von Frisch. The facade of the building... The prisoners’ work was grueling: they built bridges, tunnels, apartment blocks, hydroelectric stations, and sanatoriums. The very sanatorium featured here was one of their projects. The workers were housed just across the gorge, directly opposite the building they were constructing. What makes this sanatorium stand out is not just its history, but its interior design. Massive columns give the impression of holding the building on their shoulders, an image of strength and endurance. Though the structure has undergone renovations, it has preserved its original Soviet charm. On the floor, visitors can notice an intriguing ornament resembling a swastika. With a closer look, and by rotating its “wings,” one can see how it could transform into the infamous symbol — a subtle, almost hidden trace of history embedded in the design. Another striking feature is a statue of a woman pouring water over herself from a jar. Before the era of modern plumbing, this was a symbolic representation of cleansing, and it remains one of the sanatorium’s most eye-catching details. The stained-glass arched window leading to the balcony adds a special charm to the façade, often making travelers pause for a while to take a closer look. Beyond architecture and history, the sanatorium continues to function as a health center. It offers a variety of treatments ranging from mineral baths and massages to hydrotherapy and physiotherapy, attracting both locals and visitors seeking rest and recovery. Below is a list of treatments offered at the sanatorium. Treatment of Diseases at the Sanatorium · Cardiovascular diseases · Gastrointestinal disorders · Musculoskeletal disorders · Nervous system disorders Procedures · General mineral baths · Four-chamber galvanic baths · Intestinal irrigation · Gum irrigation · Inhalation therapy · Light therapy (electro-light treatment) · Paraffin therapy · Peat therapy · Gynecological irrigation · Underwater shower massage · ECG (electrocardiogram) · Massage · Micro-enema · Consultation with a specialist · Hydrotherapy · Acupuncture · Hirudotherapy / leech treatment · Apitherapy · Clinical blood test · Biochemical blood test · Sonography 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

Explore the rich history of Armenia with cultural tours that take you to Saghmosavank Monastery, a stunning 13th-century Armenian Apostolic complex located in the picturesque Aragatsotn region. Built by Vache A Vachutyan, Saghmosavank stands as a testament to medieval Armenian architecture with its remarkable gavit, library, and acoustics that once filled the air with psalms. Nestled on the scenic cliffs overlooking the Kasakh River, this monastery is a must-visit destination for those who wish to travel Armenia and discover its spiritual heritage. < Back Saghmosavank: A Must-Visit Monastery on Your Armenian Cultural Tour Explore the rich history of Armenia with cultural tours that take you to Saghmosavank Monastery, a stunning 13th-century Armenian Apostolic complex located in the picturesque Aragatsotn region. Built by Vache A Vachutyan, Saghmosavank stands as a testament to medieval Armenian architecture with its remarkable gavit, library, and acoustics that once filled the air with psalms. Nestled on the scenic cliffs overlooking the Kasakh River, this monastery is a must-visit destination for those who wish to travel Armenia and discover its spiritual heritage. Saghmosavank is an Armenian Apostolic monastery complex located in the village of Saghmosavan in the Aragatsotn region, perched on a scenic elevated site overlooking the Kasakh River, just 37 km from Yerevan. Built in the 13th century by Vache A Vachutyan, the monastery’s name derives from "saghmos," meaning "psalm," reflecting its unique distinction as the only monastery named after the spiritual songs sung within its walls, renowned for its exceptional acoustics. Following the liberation of Eastern Armenia by the Zakarian princes, the Vachutian dynasty established its presence here. Originally from Lori, the Vachutians connected their legacy with Aragatsotn, which they ruled. Prince Vache Vachutyan, a prominent figure of the dynasty, was known for his contributions to both military victories and monumental construction, including the open courtyard of Sanahin, the Church of the Holy Nshan of Kecharis, the gavit of Makaravank, and other notable secular and spiritual structures. Saghmosavank In 1215, Vache Vachutyan and his wife, Mamakhatun, built the main church of Saghmosavank, Saint Sion, designed by architect Momik. The church is rectangular on the outside, cross-domed on the inside, and features two-story vaults in all corners. South of Saint Sion is the Saint Astvatsatsin Church, built in 1235 by Kurd Vachutyan, son of Vache Vachutyan. This vaulted church features a rectangular plan with a distinctive altar in the eastern part, adorned with a bas-relief depicting the rising sun, an angel, and the royal coat of arms with an eagle clawing a lamb. The architecture also includes colorful designs with red, black, white, yellow, and red-painted stones, enhancing its visual appeal. In 1255, Prince Kurd Vachutyan, alongside his wife Khorishah, built the library-church known as Gratun in memory of their daughter Mamakhatun. This structure stands out for its unique design, featuring a tabernacle in the east and a rare two-story depository in the southeast corner. Gratun offers access to both the vestibule and the Saint Astvatsatsin Church, which can only be entered from the library. The library once housed 120 manuscripts in the 13th century, highlighting its significance as a center of learning. Saghmosavank Monastery was one of the most prosperous and renowned spiritual centers of the medieval period, preserving a rich legacy of Armenian architecture, history, and culture. The gavit and library of Saghmosavank, with their intricate architectural and engineering designs, are among the most remarkable examples of medieval secular buildings. 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 wondering what’s the best season? This article can serve as a useful tourist guide! BTW Armenia is an absolutely safe country and even at late hours while walking in streets you have no need to worry about your safety! < Back Best time to visit Armenia Planning to visit Armenia and wondering what’s the best season? This article can serve as a useful tourist guide! BTW Armenia is an absolutely safe country and even at late hours while walking in streets you have no need to worry about your safety! Well, since I provide hiking, trekking, and camping services, I can answer on my behalf! The high altitude (3000+) hiking season typically begins at the end of May (around the 20th) and lasts until the end of October. For the best experience, I recommend choosing hiking at this altitude from the end of May till the middle of July. You can expect to encounter green meadows, lots of flowers, some parts still covered in snow, and beautiful clouds that create unforgettable memories. Mount Aragats, Geghama mountain range, mount Dimats, mount Khustup etc. all are excellent choices. I am descending from Sevazhayr mountain (Mid-May) Note that in summer it's better to avoid hikes up to the altitude of 2000 meters since it's too hot! On the way to Okon Monastery! The trail passes through a thick forest and promises unforgettable views! Autumn is also a good time for hiking especially if you choose destinations with forests. Choosing trails in Tavush or Lori regions can be a great idea! My personal recommendations in Tavush region goes as follows: Lastiver and Okon monastery, hiking from Lake Parz to Goshavank or Gosh Lake, hiking to Matosavank and Jukhtak monastery (circular and easy trail, will take around 1 hour) or climbing mount Apakeqar! In Lori you can hike from Haghpat to Sanahin (although this one is also excellent choice in Spring) or hike to Kayan fortress! 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

Explore the rich history of the Yerevan Clock Factory, founded in 1943. From stylish alarm clocks to commemorative timepieces, discover the legacy of innovation. < Back Exploring an abandoned clock factory Explore the rich history of the Yerevan Clock Factory, founded in 1943. From stylish alarm clocks to commemorative timepieces, discover the legacy of innovation. The Yerevan clock factory was founded in 1943. It had pressing, automatic galvanizing, mechanical, assembly and other workshops. It produced stylish alarm clocks and electronic mechanical watches. In 1945, 13.6 thousand watches were produced, in 1975 - 4 million 105 thousand watches. This building always captured my attention Its products were distributed in Soviet Armenia (approximately 4,200 addresses) and exported to 63 countries, including West Germany, England, France, Cuba, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and others. Since 1954, the factory showcased its products at union and international exhibitions and fairs like Zagreb, Leipzig, Warsaw, Tokyo, Montreal, and Cairo. Approximately 260 individuals working in the factory received medals from the USSR for their outstanding achievements. Avetisyan's watch case manufacturing machine earned a silver medal for high productivity (16 times more than the previous model) at the USSR Academy of Arts and Sciences. Paper clock face of "SEVANI" alarm clock! An important aspect of the factory was its ability to produce all necessary watch parts on-site, starting from clean raw materials. Aside from mass consumption alarm clocks and wall clocks, the factory crafted commemorative clocks for significant national events. Examples include apricot wood watches for Komitas's centenary, Armenian tuff watches for Lenin's centenary, featuring carvings of the Armenian alphabet and the Matenadaran building. Regrettably, a decision has been made to demolish the building from the 1930s-1940s. Despite left only with bare walls, its unique design still captures attention. Farewell to the Clock Factory, a historical maker of timepieces! 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

This review reflects my personal experience and thoughts on using the Naturehike Cloud Up 2-person lightweight backpacking tent and is entirely independent and unbiased. < Back Review of Naturehike Cloud Up 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent This review reflects my personal experience and thoughts on using the Naturehike Cloud Up 2-person lightweight backpacking tent and is entirely independent and unbiased. For my hikes in Armenia, I was searching for a lightweight tent and chose this model, even though my preferred yellow color was unavailable, so I went with white. I especially appreciated that it includes a footprint, which adds an extra protective layer. The unique "hunchback" design is eye-catching, and the tent is easy to set up thanks to well designed structure and maybe also effective the non-slip hooks. The red tent pegs are another thoughtful touch, as they’re easy to spot against green vegetation. With 11 pegs included, I always make sure they’re all accounted for after setup. Camping in my Naturehike tent at the historic Kayan Fortress site Previously, I used budget tents from eBay, but the Naturehike tent is on a different level in terms of quality and lightness. During light rain, it kept me dry and comfortable inside. Built for three-season use, the tent material feels both high-quality and lightweight, with good ventilation overall. One downside for me is the tent’s width. At 125 cm, it feels narrow for two people, especially given my size (190 cm tall and 90 kg). For one person, it’s spacious, but for two, it’s a bit tight. Still, for extreme conditions, even a snug tent is a welcome shelter. Overall, I’m very satisfied with this tent, though I’ll update my impressions as I continue to use it. Here is a description of the tent provided by Naturehike: The Naturehike Cloud Up 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is the ideal choice for lightweight backpacking adventures. This ultralight, free-standing tent is made from durable 20D nylon with a silicone coating, ensuring superior waterproof and windproof performance. With its easy setup design, the tent can be assembled in under two minutes, making it perfect for camping, hiking, and bikepacking. The spacious interior and vestibule offer ample room for two people, ensuring a comfortable and dry night's sleep in any weather. The inner layer of the tent Key Features: Easy Setup: Freestanding design with aluminum alloy poles, assembles in under two minutes. Waterproof & Windproof : PU 4000 mm waterproof 20D nylon with silicone coating, taped seams, and durable 7001 aluminum alloy poles. Spacious Interior: Tent size 82.7 x 49.2 x 41.3 in | 210 × 125 × 105 cm with a front door and vestibule for extra storage. Ultralight: Weighs only 3.97 lb | 1.8 kg and packs down to 17.7 x 4.7 x 4.7 in | 45 × 13 × 13 cm, fitting easily into your backpack. Double Layer Design: Provides excellent ventilation and can be used separately as a sun shelter. 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

During and after World War II, thousands of German prisoners of war were transported to Armenia, where they participated in various labor projects. The total number of prisoners of war in Armenia amounted to around 16,160. Among them was the renowned Austrian zoologist, ethologist, and ornithologist Konrad Lorenz, who later shared the 1973 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Nikolaas Tinbergen and Karl von Frisch. < Back Konrad Lorenz's life as a prisoner of war in Armenia During and after World War II, thousands of German prisoners of war were transported to Armenia, where they participated in various labor projects. The total number of prisoners of war in Armenia amounted to around 16,160. Among them was the renowned Austrian zoologist, ethologist, and ornithologist Konrad Lorenz, who later shared the 1973 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Nikolaas Tinbergen and Karl von Frisch. In 1941, Konrad Lorenz, already a professor of psychology at the University of Königsberg, was conscripted into the Wehrmacht. He was assigned the role of a military psychologist. Under the supervision of Rudolf Hippius, Lorenz conducted racial studies on humans in occupied Poznań. The objective of these studies was to examine the biological characteristics of "German-Polish half-breeds" to ascertain whether they shared the same work ethics as "pure" Germans. The extent of Lorenz's involvement in the project remains unclear, but the project director, Hippius, referred to him as an "examining psychologist" on multiple occasions. It was in 1943 or 1944 (Lorenz himself doesn't remember for sure) that he witnessed transports of concentration camp inmates, and with this evidence before his own eyes, he at last "fully realized the complete inhumanity of the Nazis." Konrad Lorenz as a Soviet POW in 1944 In 1944, Lorenz was transferred to the Vitebsk field hospital. There, in a concrete bunker close behind the front line, he worked as a field surgeon. Then, when the Russians launched an attack westward, he was captured on June 24. When gathering information about Konrad Lorenz’s life in Armenia, I consulted a book about his biography written by Alec Nisbett, although the author provided limited information about his life as a POW. Luckily in my research, I also came across doctor Werner Straube's memoirs, which detailed their life as prisoners of war in Armenia. The text below consists of excerpts from his memoirs. After Werner Straube was captured, he was first taken to a large assembly camp. From there, he was transported to Brno, a camp with around 500 men, where they used to do road construction work. The transports were real starvation transports. They never had enough to eat or drink. Their comrades died of typhus, dysentery, diphtheria. At that time, German doctors were wanted. And so, medical student Straube registered as a doctor for the first time there. Later, Straube was taken to the Kober (probably in Lori Region or Armenia – Armenian Explorer) camp. After he had held the post of camp doctor there for about six months, a transport arrived from Kirov, and with this transport came Konrad Lorenz. Konrad Lorenz actively supported Straube with delousing from day one. Then they divided work: He took over the outpatient clinic, and Straube was responsible for the very primitive camp hospital. They took care of hygiene and delousing together. Malnutrition was a problem not only for prisoners but also for militants guarding them. The garrison officers were also always sick. So the officers of the garrisons also became Konrad's patients. As a result, he naturally had good contacts with the them, and his word carried weight with them. Konrad used his authority to warn guards not to mistreat prisoners and reminded them of the Geneva Convention. He did not shy away from using this argument, even though the Russians had not signed the Geneva Convention. The “Russian Manuscript” The Odyssey of the Russian Manuscript, which he famously took home with him has practically already begun to be written down. Konrad used this manuscript after his return home again and again as a basis for his scientific work. It was later lost, was found again in 1992 and then by Konrad's daughter, Agnes von Cranach, published as a Russian manuscript. Night after night Konrad sat and wrote. It was quiet and he was undisturbed. And always, when he finished a chapter, he said to me: “Werner, study this chapter and recite it to me.” I did that: I read the text, I thought of it I wrote down a few key words and then gave him the content in a free lecture presented. Konrad wanted to check whether his didactics were good. He has explained to me: “I don’t just write for scientists. I want ordinary people to read it as well. You should understand what comparative behavioral research is. What ethology is. What evolution is. I want to interpret that for a wide audience, not just scientists.” The humanist... Konrad was a personality with immensely many facets. For example, he was an excellent connoisseur of Goethe. He could recite long passages from many of his works by heart. He also always had some Faust verses ready that were appropriate to a situation. If the situation was somehow critical, for example, he used to say: " “Zu diesem Schritt sich heiter zu entschließen und wär' es mit Gefahr, ins Nichts dahin zu fließen”. He constantly had other Faust quotes on the tip of his tongue. He considered me as his diligent student and often said: "So, listen Werner. If you want to exist in your later life as a doctor, then you must have a good memory. You must be able to speak freely, and above all, it is important that you practice your memory here in this misery. If you don't strain your brain cells, you will somehow atrophy. Write down the Faust text that I have." ...and delousing The delousing clinic played a significant role in the camp. Namely, no one who had come with a transport from Kirov was allowed to be sent to work without having been deloused beforehand. The delousing system was quite something. The clothes were hung inside, and one had to be extremely careful not to let them fall onto the heated pipes on the floor. Otherwise, the entire delousing system would have gone up in flames and exploded. That had already happened to me once and should not happen again. Therefore, we paid great attention to ensuring that the comrades hung their clothing in such a way that they did not come into contact with the heating coils. Konrad operated the system always cheerfully and with great enthusiasm. He sat on a felled tree stump nearby and repeatedly stoked the fire. And it gave him great pleasure when he saw through the inspection window how the lice suddenly became restless and crawled towards the window. Then the lice burst, and not only the lice but also the nits were killed. It was a hundred percent delousing that we achieved in this way. The psychologist and lifesaver Konrad Lorenz, it must be said, passed his test as a doctor under extreme living conditions with flying colors, solely through his psychotherapeutic help and treatments. Through his work, of which I am one hundred percent certain, he gave many of his comrades courage again and restored their will to live. Through him, they began to believe in returning home again. Konrad lifted many out of depression, including myself. Perhaps that was his greatest achievement as a doctor behind Soviet barbed wire. And solely through that, he earned great merit for the wartime generation. I also count myself among those whose lives he saved. After a period of hunger in early March 1947, we were served a so-called Kascha soup with meat after about eight days. I was hungry as a bear and ate a whole pot of this Kascha with mutton. However, the mutton was spoiled. In a state of dystrophy [malnutrition] and dehydration [exsiccation], I also got diarrhea and lost even more fluid. And when there was no more fluid left, my kidneys stopped functioning. So I became unconscious, could no longer get up due to weakness. Konrad saw me lying like that, saw my nose getting sharper, my pulse getting faster, how I was visibly deteriorating, and said: "Good Lord, he's dying, that's it." And then he acted and performed a real medical feat: He went to the kitchen and filled a bucket with five liters of water. We also had a packet of Dextropur in the infirmary, pure glucose. With 500g of pure glucose and the water, he made a five percent solution, boiled it on the stove, and let it cool. When he came back to me with it, I was practically fading away. As he leaned over me, I looked at him again and said, "Konrad, I'm a poor devil." Then I sank into unconsciousness, while he performed the great feat of finding a vein in me, although all the veins had collapsed. After some searching, he finally managed to position a single needle in a vein in my right arm and fix it with a small strip of plaster. He sat down beside my bed with a ten-cubic-centimeter syringe from the infirmary and repeatedly drew ten cubic centimeters and injected it into this cannula, 24 hours straight. And lo and behold, after about 24 hours, I woke up again. In between, however, I had a near-death experience: I saw a glorified blue sky and an infinite expanse of trees, white blooming like cherry trees. The splendor and abundance of light and the infinite peace that lay over that landscape have remained in my memory. When I suddenly opened my eyes again in the early hours of March 11, 1947, Konrad's face was above me. At a time when I was closer to death than ever before, I saw the face of my fatherly friend Konrad Lorenz as the first thing after waking up again. And since then, I am convinced that although imprinting is otherwise only possible in early youth, at that time, an imprinting took place in me at the advanced age of twenty years. Fight against scarcity Konrad's skills as a doctor gradually earned respect from the Russians as well. In the Chalturin camp, he recognized an illness among prisoners of war that the Russians had misdiagnosed: Our comrades suddenly experienced paresthesia [tingling, numbness of limbs] and subsequent paralysis due to malnutrition and vitamin deficiency, which were so severe that several even suffered respiratory paralysis and died. The Russians believed that these comrades were suffering from toxic diphtheria. Even in cases of toxic diphtheria, paresthesia and irreparable paralysis can occur, they knew that very well. However, Konrad was able to convince them that it was polyneuropathy [damage to certain nerve pathways] due to a vitamin deficiency, with vitamin C deficiency being predominant, according to his statements. The Russians took action and procured vitamin C, which was then administered in the camp. And behold, the paresthesia and paralysis disappeared. The prisoners became capable of working again, and Konrad Lorenz was the great miracle doctor. He spoke with the Russians and told them that he was also a scientist and was involved in a new science, ethology, or comparative behavioral research. And he asked them to allow him to put down on paper what he knew about his science so far, so that he would not waste any time of his life. I knew that he had last held the chair of Immanuel Kant in Königsberg, one of the most prestigious chairs that German universities had to offer. He was visibly proud of that. But he also told me that he was unfortunately drafted into the Wehrmacht too early and then came to Posen, where he worked in a hospital, and later went to Vitebsk for frontline service as a doctor. What was extraordinary was that he was integrated into the fighting troops and was captured. He later explained this to me: The Russian soldier who captured him stood with a loaded rifle next to him. But after he realized that Konrad was defenseless, he experienced what is known as inhibition of killing. He couldn't shoot the unarmed Konrad Lorenz and instead asked him to stand up and come along. It was solely due to this circumstance, the inhibition of killing of a Red Army soldier, that he owed his life. He mentioned this episode to me several times: "That was the sore point in my life," he used to say, "I was almost shot back then, and no one would have cared about me anymore. But as it happened, I made it through, and fate took its course." It must be known that the supply of prisoners of war in Armenia was particularly difficult because the Armenians themselves did not have much to eat. This also meant that the supply did not work out. From February until shortly before Konrad arrived in the camp, the prisoners of war were fed exclusively on flour. They simply put sacks of flour in the camp, and we had to figure out how to deal with it. In other words, we had flour soup in the morning, flour dumplings for lunch, and flour porridge for dinner. Without any meat or vitamin supplements, this led to a disaster. The comrades suffered from the so-called flour malnutrition. They became dystrophic and soon suffered from the severe form of dystrophy, called edematous dystrophy. Their legs swelled, their skin burst, there were secondary infections of ulcers on the legs, so many became unable to work. Therefore, we tried to improve the vitamin content by adding dandelions and herbs that grew along the roadside. We also cooked large amounts of nettles into the soup, but of course, this could not achieve the desired effect in the long run. The avitaminosis [vitamin deficiency disease] also caused many comrades to become night-blind. The so-called hemeralopia [night blindness] played a significant role at that time. At night, none of the sick comrades could leave the shelter and go to the latrine without being led by another comrade, to prevent them from falling into the latrine or running into the barbed wire fence. Because approaching the barbed wire immediately triggered an alarm, and the Russians started shooting. Additionally, the night's rest was always disturbed by the yelling of the Russian guards, who shouted to each other and sang songs. So we were constantly hungry. And this hunger had to be fought in some way. Something had to be organized. Konrad Lorenz was one of the most inventive and successful organizers when it came to combating hunger. For example, from time to time, cows were slaughtered on a meadow outside the camp. Then we temporarily had a few pieces of meat in our soup. The large marrow bones were left behind. Konrad saw this and asked if he could have the bones. The Russians wondered what he was planning to do with the bones. Konrad had a large iron bucket brought from the forge and then smashed the bones with an iron pestle. Once they were small enough, he threw them into a pot and boiled them in the kitchen. When the broth cooled, he skimmed off the bone fat and filled it into cans. The fat had to be stored cool to avoid becoming rancid shortly. We buried it in a shady spot near the infirmary – that was our refrigerator. However, I said, "Konrad, we are not used to fat at all anymore. If we eat the fat, we'll probably get stomach cramps and diarrhea." However, he stubbornly replied, "I'll try it anyway!" – And behold, it didn't take long before he had diarrhea and had to run to the latrine constantly. He even persuaded me to give it a try. I only did it once, and I had a similar experience. But after Konrad tried it several times, he kept the bread with the bone fat for himself. He survived through that acute phase of hunger. But he also did not scorn other "additional food." Once a Russian officer passed through the camp, who had shot a buzzard. Konrad saw the dead bird and asked, "What are you going to do with the dead buzzard?" The Russian replied, "I'll throw it away, I only shot it for my pleasure." Konrad asked, "Can I have this buzzard?" To which the Russian replied, "If you want it, you can have it." As soon as the Russian officer was gone, Konrad plucked the bird, removed its innards, singed it, dissected it, and fried it in the kitchen. He ate it up completely. It agreed with him well, and he didn't have diarrhea afterwards. He wanted to share some with me, but of course, I felt disgust and declined. It was similar with the snake: One of our comrades brought a snake, about one meter long, which he had killed from the construction site. He showed it to Konrad because he knew he was a zoologist, someone who knows about animals. Konrad took the snake, skinned it, dissected it, fried it, and ate it up. Even this "snake feast" agreed with him. The next miracle that completely perplexed the camp community and the Russians, including the officers, was the experiment with the lizard: We had a lizard population in the camp. The animals liked to sunbathe on the basalt cones in the camp. I can still remember exactly how Konrad sat on these basalt cones for several days, observing the lizards until he must have known each one individually. Anyway, he managed to catch a lizard. He got a box, put the lizard in it, and then went to the Russian guard and called the officer who had given him the buzzard. He asked him if he would like to come and see an experiment. The officer came and brought several guards with him. It was around noon, so there were prisoners in the camp as well, and Konrad called them over too. Then he showed us his lizard experiment: He took the animal out of the box, put it on the table in the infirmary, and stroked the lizard with his hands. The lizard made a leap and landed on its back. Everyone was amazed. The Russians even stepped back. They had never seen anything like it, let alone considered it possible. After a while, Konrad stroked the lizard again. It made a leap and was back on its feet. That was the last straw. The Russians ran away. They pushed their caps back and said about Konrad, he was in league with the devil. So Konrad Lorenz was always a topic of conversation. The Austrian professor, they said, wasn't he a great man, who knew how to get by. The food was often so bad that we thought we wouldn't survive. So when I finally learned the Faust verses, we organized recitation evenings. We invited the officers and all interested people. Konrad and I then performed Faust, or rather, we interpreted it. Of course, Konrad could do that too; he wasn't just a Faust interpreter, he was also a Goethe interpreter. The listeners were enthusiastic and repeatedly asked us to perform again. While we played, while we spread intellectual nourishment, they forgot their hunger just as much as we forgot ours. Bad news from home One day, a comrade from the German camp administration came and brought Konrad a postcard. He read this card, and I saw how he changed color and somehow slackened while reading it. I observed this from very close and knew right away that there must have been something special on this card, even before Konrad said to me, "Werner, my father has passed away." He was deeply shaken. Then he handed me the card. I read this card, written by Konrad's wife Gretl, myself. Konrad then took it back, went to the infirmary, lay down on his straw sack there, and was unresponsive until late into the night, mourning deeply for his father. He would have loved to see his father again. His father had been especially proud of him when he finally managed to be appointed to the chair of Kant in Königsberg. I also know that his father had visited him in Königsberg and even stayed there for a while. After receiving the news of his father's death, Konrad held proper memorial sessions for his father for seven days. During this time, he did not continue writing his Russian manuscript but devoted himself entirely to thoughts of his father. During this phase, he also told me about the contents of the book "I Was Allowed to Help" that his father had written. Not only to me, but also to other listeners, including some officers we had gotten to know a little better. When he finished his eulogy, often late into the night, he always quoted verses from Faust: "If, as a young man, you honor your father, then you would gladly be received by him. If, as a man, you increase knowledge, your son can achieve a higher goal." and "Oh, fortunate is he who still can hope to emerge from this sea of error. What one does not know, one needs; and what one knows, one cannot use." The camp doctor... It was a special trait of Konrad's that he did not withdraw as a professor but, on the contrary, integrated himself into the camp community as a doctor. He took over the infirmary. I deliberately said, "Konrad, you run the infirmary, then you have constant contact with our people. They not only tell you about the complaints they have at the moment, but they also tell you how they have been treated at their workplaces. Whether they have been beaten, whether their performance has been recognized, or whether they have been degraded." He took note of all this with an open ear. And it was essential that there was a listener. This was often more important than distributing any pills, which we had in very limited numbers anyway. Even when the Russians came, they usually demanded medication, although the medicines in the infirmary were actually intended for our prisoners of war. But they were the masters and sometimes demanded, for example, sulfonamides, which were very rare, if they had pneumonia or something similar. Our comrades were then naturally lacking them. But for Konrad, a patient was first and foremost a patient, whether prisoner or Russian, that is, the oppressor. In such moments, it did not matter. And precisely because he never made a distinction, he was so respected by the Russians. They respected him. So he was successful with his comrades, but also with the Russians. Unfortunately, during the heavy work that our comrades had to do in building the power plant, there were also instances of abuse: beatings with rifle butts, but also kicks led to injuries. The injured comrades were brought to our camp. When a prisoner was beaten so severely that several ribs were broken, both Konrad and I intervened and called in the camp commander. We made it clear to him that this man had been beaten and abused at the workplace for no reason. Konrad did not mince words. He said, "We are prisoners of war. We are defenseless here. But the war is over. The Geneva Convention prohibits the mistreatment of prisoners of war. What you are doing violates human rights." We could hear references to the Geneva Convention on various occasions from him. And he also said to me, "Werner, it's better if you are consistent and accuse the Russians when they do something wrong, then they will have more respect for you than if you cower before them." I followed this later in other camps. I had lost my fear of the Russians. And by appearing in a certain way and referring to the Geneva Convention, I achieved more than I could have by submissive behavior. Once, we severely reprimanded the Russians. There was a forge nearby. There was a blacksmith in a dark room with almost no ventilation. In the middle was the anvil where the iron was forged, so it naturally smoked heavily. The draft was completely insufficient, and this comrade was brought to us into the camp two or three times half unconscious with chronic carbon monoxide poisoning. After repeatedly pointing this out to the Russians, at least a larger exhaust was broken into this forge. Also, many comrades had accidents during the underground work because safety measures were not observed at all. Many had no helmets and no headgear at all. The equipment they worked with was more than primitive. Bone fractures and severe head injuries were commonplace. Konrad had to come to terms with this as the camp doctor in Sevan. ...und Zoologe But in Sevan, the zoologist in him also came to the forefront. The camp was located on a plateau. Therefore, there were plenty of birds, as he later told me: starlings, sparrows en masse, and even larks. Anyway, with the help of some comrades and wire he obtained from the construction sites, he made several cages and then caught a young starling, two house sparrows, and a crested lark. He had dealt with starlings before. And now he wanted to tame this starling. So he put it in the cage, then carried the cage into a closed room, opened it there, and let the starling fly. He had a long stick with him, with which he threatened the star whenever it left the cage. Eventually, the star realized that if I fly back into the cage, I won't be threatened anymore. He repeated this experiment so many times until the star was tamed. When he later took it to Yerevan, all he had to do was raise the stick, and behold, the bird returned to its cage. In addition to the star, which he named Friedrich and which later went down in the history of ornithology, he also brought his two house sparrows and the crested lark in the cage to Yerevan. In the camp in Arabkir, the cages were hung on the south side and played a significant role for the prisoners of war. Those who suffered from dystrophy and those who were unable to work were sitting in the camp with nothing to do. So they amused themselves by catching flies for the birds. Thus, the starling, the crested lark, and the sparrows there were well-fed, and the prisoners of war had their entertainment. When we had lunch break and there was no infirmary, Konrad and I regularly met. Then he let the starling fly. He simply opened the door, and the starling flew out. It was lively and flew to the gutters, to the telegraph poles, and circled over the camp. This naturally attracted many spectators. Not only the prisoners of war but also the Russian guards came and watched as the starling flew around. But as soon as Konrad raised the stick, the bird either returned directly to the cage or boldly landed on his master's head or shoulder. In addition to the laughter of the prisoners of war, you could then hear the Russians cursing. The Russians liked to curse, not only when something didn't suit them but also when they were amazed. And when the starling sat on Lorenz's head, I could hear them say repeatedly: Well, the professor really has a bird! Reality in Yerevan The bodies of deceased comrades had to lie for three hours and were not to be touched. Then they were picked up and taken to a shed for dissection. Every corpse in Yerevan had to be dissected. To my great fortune, when I was in Prague, I had participated in a dissection course once. So I could dissect. I had to work with very primitive instruments, but it worked. Next to me stood a Russian captain doctor who inspected the exposed organs, kept records, and of course, indicated the cause of death. The cause of death was clear in very many cases: the patients had starved. But this could not be documented in the records. There it said died of tuberculosis, of pneumonia, and the like. Death by starvation as such was not allowed to be documented. It naturally affected me greatly to have to dissect my comrades under the most primitive conditions while rats jumped around me. At that time, Konrad kept saying, "Werner, you will survive this too." Every time I returned exhausted and depressed from such a dissection, he lifted me up. We constantly motivated each other when we were almost at the end. Konrad's journey home After the Russian chief physician, Joseph Gregorian, (Werner Straube is likely misremembering renowned Armenian architect Mark Grigorian’s actual name; I believe he is referring to him and Grigorian in his term promised to forward his request to Hovsep Orbeli – Armenian Explorer) promised Konrad to forward his request to take his manuscript home, Konrad was naturally extremely tense. He kept wondering, "Will he do it? Will I succeed in what I'm planning now?" He tried to cope with this inner tension by lecturing me until late into the night, just to pass the time. When he talked about Darwin, he sometimes could hardly find an end. For me, it was highly interesting to delve into this science. It was also important for Konrad to share his views on Sigmund Freud. And I can only say that it was an extremely positive attitude; otherwise, he would not have become so eloquent and detailed on this topic. He was also fascinated by Kantian philosophy, which he often spoke about. He corresponded with Max Planck, whom he greatly admired. Planck meant a lot to him, and there were also bridges concerning evolutionary epistemology. Konrad informed me that he had corresponded with Planck and that through this correspondence, he had found out how much he and Planck agreed on epistemological issues. And he always regretted greatly that he could not experience Planck anymore, as he had passed away in 1947. After weeks of waiting, a representative of the Russian camp commander came and gave Konrad a document stating: Konrad Lorenz, Professor, is ordered to the Academy of Physiological Sciences in Moscow. Immediately. This meant that Konrad had to get ready for departure from Yerevan within a few hours. This caused a stir. He was first called to the clothing store, where he was dressed anew. The result of this dressing was a disaster. When he came back, I hardly recognized him; he looked like a scarecrow. He wore a shako and a coat that was much too long and so big that his hands barely visible. His trousers hung like an accordion over the new shoes, of which hardly anything was visible. In this attire, Konrad prepared for departure. However, the most important thing was that he still had to bundle his manuscript. He used strings for that. He had also insisted on a backpack because he had to transport his bundle of papers somehow. Additionally, he still carried his two bird cages with the starling, the two house sparrows, and the crested lark that were so dear to him. The departure was scheduled for three o'clock. His departure deeply affected me. With him, I not only lost a fatherly friend but also my second father, so to speak. I had lost my biological father to illness at the age of nine. Now, I was losing another father who had been a guiding light in my life. And by now, I could very well assess what I owed to Konrad Lorenz. The most important thing I owed him was my life. But it was much more than that. Comrade Konrad Lorenz, like me, possessed a humanistic education. When I voluntarily applied to the military medical academy in Berlin, I read above the entrance the motto under which we military doctors were supposed to practice our profession later: Scientiae Humanitati Patriae. I never forgot this motto even in captivity. And not for nothing does the word humanitas stand in the middle of this saying. That is the most essential thing in medical ethics, to serve humanity. By the victorious nation, by the Russians, this humanity was trampled underfoot behind barbed wire. We were deprived of rights; we possessed nothing but our lives and had to figure out how to survive. The only endeavor in Russian captivity was indeed to survive, no matter what. Konrad encouraged me in this, and not only me but all the comrades he psychologically supported and urged not to lose courage, not to lose faith, not to let the hope of returning home fade. When hope fades, life is lost. So Konrad tried to make us laugh by, for example, telling his animal stories. The comrades sitting around him sometimes held their stomachs from laughing. It was the most effective psychotherapy I have ever encountered. 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

Despite being abandoned and surrounded by scattered garbage, this rusty iron fountain in Gyumri continues to attract visitors from around the world. Why? The answer is simple: its creator was a visionary architect whose works looked futuristic for their time and still hold a remarkable allure, even in decay. This unique fountain, with its otherworldly design, captivates everyone who sees it — and it’s the kind of sight that easily goes viral online. < Back The Iron Fountain in Gyumri Despite being abandoned and surrounded by scattered garbage, this rusty iron fountain in Gyumri continues to attract visitors from around the world. Why? The answer is simple: its creator was a visionary architect whose works looked futuristic for their time and still hold a remarkable allure, even in decay. This unique fountain, with its otherworldly design, captivates everyone who sees it — and it’s the kind of sight that easily goes viral online. As you ascend Manushyan Street in Gyumri, you'll soon encounter a peculiar sight: a massive iron structure looming above the road like a flying saucer. This post-apocalyptic creation is the "Friendship" fountain, affectionately known as “The Iron Fountain”, designed by Arthur Tarkhanyan, an esteemed Armenian architect. "Friendship" fountain or "The Iron Fountain" today The fountain was inaugurated in 1982 and quickly became a popular spot for leisure and evening strolls until the devastating earthquake of 1988. While the fountain itself endured the earthquake relatively unscathed, the surrounding area fell into disrepair, and the challenging years that followed provided no opportunity for its revival. Yet, even today, this abandoned fountain draws visitors intrigued by its architectural history and seeking to capture its unique charm in photographs. The Iron Fountain has always been a favorite subject for photographers! It offers the perfect backdrop for awesome shots. Photo credits: NORDSKIF Despite years of disuse, the city's residents have refrained from dismantling or scavenging it for metal. A restoration proposal was put forth by "A3 Architects" several years ago, with a 3D animation available on the YouTube channel of Tarkhanyan’s daughter. One can only hope that someday it will undergo restoration, reclaiming its former glory. The coordinates of "The Iron Fountain": 40°48'56"N 43°50'59"E 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

Old Khot, also known as Hin Khot, is often referred to as the Armenian Machu Picchu due to its resemblance to the Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. Discover this mysterious ghost village hiking along Vorotan Gorge. < Back Abandoned Village Old Khot - Armenian Machu Picchu Old Khot, also known as Hin Khot, is often referred to as the Armenian Machu Picchu due to its resemblance to the Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. Discover this mysterious ghost village hiking along Vorotan Gorge. Old Khot is perched on the cliffs of the Vorotan River at an altitude of 1500 meters above the sea level. The name of the settlement is derived from the Armenian word "Khot," meaning herbage or grass. According to Heinrich Hübschmann, this name refers to the lush gardens surrounding Old Khot, known as Khotaget, where "Khot" signifies grass, and "get" signifies river. Old Khot as seen from a distance The history of Old Khot dates back to the 2nd century BC when it was initially inhabited by cave-dwelling people who later constructed houses on the rocks. In the 11th century, Armenian historian Stepanos Orbelian mentioned it as a tax-paying settlement under the jurisdiction of the Tatev Monastery. A well preserved house in Old Khot, even the roof was intact The village boasted a large garden known as Khotaget, a castle named Khanapa, and a monastery named Khoti Vank, dedicated to St. Astvatsatsin. Old Khot earned the name Zangezur, meaning "land of bells," owing to its renowned bells. In the 12th century, Old Khot had another monastery called Mrgadzori Khach, constructed by an Armenian woman who had escaped from a Persian harem. This monastery displayed a unique architectural and artistic style, blending Armenian and Persian influences. A church in Old Khot Social changes of the 20th century led to the abandonment of Old Khot. Instead of improving infrastructure with a proper road, new pipeline, and enhanced electricity facilities, authorities decided to relocate the village to a new settlement on a plateau. In the 1960s-70s, inhabitants were moved to higher ground closer to the main road and utility on flatter land, a trend observed in many villages, including Khndzoresk. The villagers resettled in a new village called Khot on the hillside above Old Khot, leaving their belongings and memories behind. Old Khot transformed into a ghost town, yet it continues to attract visitors for its scenic views and historical significance. Explorers can wander through its ruins, marvel at its architecture and art, and witness the intersection of nature and history. Me exploring Old Khot Old Khot is a hidden gem in Armenia, providing insights into its past and present. It is a realm where nature intertwines with history, and mystery harmonizes with beauty, inviting those who have a passion for Armenia or an eagerness to uncover something novel. The site retains its enchantment, featuring stone houses, gardens, churches, and caves. 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

The Armenian language is a unique and fascinating language with a rich history and culture. As one of the oldest languages in the world, Armenian holds a special place not only as a means of communication but also as a vital aspect of Armenia's identity. < Back Armenian Language The Armenian language is a unique and fascinating language with a rich history and culture. As one of the oldest languages in the world, Armenian holds a special place not only as a means of communication but also as a vital aspect of Armenia's identity. Armenian belongs to the Indo-European language family; moreover, it is an independent branch. In the second half of the 19th century, the German linguist Heinrich Hübschmann, in his article "The position of Armenian among the Indo-European languages" published in 1875, proved that Armenian is an independent branch of the Indo-European languages. The commonalities it shares with Persian and other ancient languages (mainly lexical) are not due to origin but are conditioned by loans of a later period. The statue of Mesrop Mashtoc and Koriun in front of Matenadaran The first stage of Armenian is Old Armenian or, as it is commonly called, Grabar. Grabar is the name of the developed literary version of Armenian in the old period. It was used in notebooks, during church ceremonies, and in everyday life. However, over time, the spoken language became so far removed from the written language that the common citizen could not understand it. Nevertheless, grabar was widely used before the 11th century. Middle Armenian or Cilician Armenian was used from the 11th to the 16th century. Of course, it was inferior to Grabar in complexity, but the changes introduced were not enough to make it a language accessible to the public. Frick, Nahapet Kuchak, Grigor Narekatsi, and others created works in this period. Armenian Alphabet Alley in winter. The monument includes sculptures of the 39 letters of the Armenian alphabet and monuments of Armenian greats Ashkharbaar or New Armenian was used from the 17th century and was finally formed in the 19th century. Khachatur Abovian was the pioneer of writing in Ashkharhabar, elevating the language from its traditional oral usage to a literary medium and significantly contributing to its development. Today, the Armenian language is considered the main means of communication for the Armenian people worldwide. Modern Armenian is presented to the public in two branches: Western Armenian and Eastern Armenian. Eastern Armenian is widespread in Armenia, Artsakh, Iran, and post-Soviet countries, while Western Armenian was used in historical Western Armenia and is now spoken in settlements created as a result of the genocide. Despite regional variations, both dialects share a common linguistic core, reinforcing the unity among Armenians globally. Armenian Alphabet The Armenian alphabet was created by Mesrop Mashtots in 405. The creation of the Armenian alphabet, known as the "Mesropian script," was a groundbreaking achievement, providing Armenians with a written language that allowed for the preservation of their cultural and religious heritage. The Armenian language has a long literary history, with a 5th-century Bible translation as its oldest surviving text. Despite historical challenges, the language has survived and continues to be a vital part of Armenian identity. Whether through the melodic rhythm of its spoken form or the elegant curves of its unique script, the Armenian language continues to enchant scholars and linguists worldwide. 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

In late October 2025, I had an unforgettable hike to the Chalaadi Glacier in Mestia. In this article, I’ll share my experience and give you some practical advice on how to plan your hike carefully to get the most out of it — and have a safe, unforgettable time in Georgia. < Back A Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier In late October 2025, I had an unforgettable hike to the Chalaadi Glacier in Mestia. In this article, I’ll share my experience and give you some practical advice on how to plan your hike carefully to get the most out of it — and have a safe, unforgettable time in Georgia. A brief note about the Chalaadi Glacier The Chalaadi Glacier (also spelled Chaaladi or Chaladi ) is located near Mestia, in Georgia’s Svaneti region, on the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. It descends from Mount Ushba and Mount Chatyn-Tau, forming part of the Enguri River basin.The Chalaadistskali River originates directly from the glacier’s melting ice and soon merges with the Mestiachala River , which then flows into the Enguri River — one of western Georgia’s major waterways. The glacier is roughly 6–7 kilometers long, and its tongue lies at an elevation of around 1,850–2,000 meters above sea level.Thanks to its easy accessibility, Chalaadi is one of the most visited glaciers in the Caucasus. The road to Chalaadi glacier After spending a night in Mestia at Babale’s Guesthouse , together with Malene we set off by car to reach the trailhead to Chalaadi Glacier. The road is around 10 km one way — well maintained but unpaved. I drove my Mitsubishi Pajero 4 , which handled it effortlessly, though it’s still possible to make it in a sedan. Personally, I don’t recommend hiking all the way to the Chali bridge ; it’s better to take a taxi there and start your hike from that point. The parking area where you leave your car and from where the hike begins. When we arrived, we were surprised to see many cars there despite it being the off-season. The parking lot is just a few dozen meters from the bridge, which looked quite worn compared to photos I had seen earlier. On a rainy day, the bridge can be slippery, so be cautious — especially if you’re hiking with kids. The trail starts at 1,670 meters above sea level and climbs to about 1,950 meters . After crossing the bridge, we passed a few small cafés — closed for the season — and then entered a beautiful evergreen pine forest. The bright green colors were refreshing and soothing to the eyes. Soon, the Mestiachala River greeted us with its powerful roar, and the terrain became rockier. The day was cloudy and rainy, but from time to time the clouds lifted, revealing the towering snowy peaks around us. After around 3 km of hiking and gaining around 280 meters in elevation, we reached the glacier. Along the way, we met many other hikers, all greeting each other warmly. The trail is easy, and you can easily manage without a guide to navigate the terrain and reach the glacier. Other tourists had already reached the area near the Chalaadi Glacier and were enjoying the view from a nearby hill. We, however, decided to move closer — which turned out to be a risky decision. It's highly recommended not to get too close to the glacier and to stay alert for falling rocks and possible mudslides. Here is what happened to us. When we arrived, I suddenly heard a loud noise. I didn’t even look up at first — with my cap pulled low and my head down, I thought it was just thunder. But Malene’s shouts brought me back to reality. I looked up and saw a massive mudslide rolling down. Luckily, I was still at a safe distance. I started running back while pulling out my camera to record it. It was an incredible sight — the raw, destructive force of nature unfolding before my eyes. Yet despite the chaos, the whole hike felt peaceful and beautiful. As I write these lines, I can still see everything so vividly. I envy those who will hike there for the first time and witness that beauty with fresh eyes. Chalaadi Glacier trailhead coordinates: 43°06'35"N 42°44'40"E 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

Earlier I wrote about the 1-meter Schmidt telescope at the Byurakan Observatory. Today I want to focus on another giant of Armenian and Soviet science — the ZTA-2.6 telescope. For anyone interested in Soviet technology, scientific tourism or into urbex adventures, this site is a true hidden gem. And yes — you can explore it on my urban explorer tours across Armenia. < Back The ZTA-2.6 Telescope at Byurakan Observatory Earlier I wrote about the 1-meter Schmidt telescope at the Byurakan Observatory. Today I want to focus on another giant of Armenian and Soviet science — the ZTA-2.6 telescope. For anyone interested in Soviet technology, scientific tourism or into urbex adventures, this site is a true hidden gem. And yes — you can explore it on my urban explorer tours across Armenia. The Byurakan Observatory stands on the southern slope of Mount Aragats, in the village of Byurakan, Aragatsotn Province, about 50 km north of Yerevan, at an altitude of around 1,500 meters. It is one of the most significant scientific centers of the Soviet era. Aerial photo of the building that houses the ZTA-2.6 telescope The ZTA-2.6 telescope was built by LOMO (Leningrad Optical-Mechanical Association, St. Petersburg, Russia) and later transported to Armenia by plane. Not all large telescopes could handle such a journey. For example, the Schmidt telescope could not be flown due to its fragile optical system. Even the slightest vibration might have ruined its components, so it had to be delivered by truck at a cautious speed of no more than 15 km/h. Winter in Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory ZTA-2.6 is, in fact, the twin of the G. A. Shain reflector at the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory. Both instruments, as well as the famous 6-meter telescope at the Russian Special Astrophysical Observatory, were designed by Bagrat Ioannisian, LOMO’s chief constructor. The observatory’s building itself is iconic. Designed by architect Sargis Gurzadyan and completed in 1975, it became operational in 1976 when the first observations were carried out. The Control Panel of the ZTA-2.6 Telescope The ZTA-2.6 telescope is the largest instrument at the observatory. It sits near Byurakan at 1,406 meters above sea level. Main specifications: Primary mirror diameter: 260 cm Mirror weight: 4 tons Mirror material: Sitall Mounting: Equatorial Aperture ratio (D/F): 1:3.85 Optical parameters: Primary focus: 10 m focal length, 2′ field Cassegrain focus: 40 m focal length, 4′ field Nasmith foci (3): 40 m focal length, 12′ field Coudé focus: 105.4 m focal length, 1′40″ field This 80-ton ZTA-2.6 telescope rotates on 60-micron-thick oil pads Today, the telescope has been fully modernized. The original control panels, once essential, are now retired, preserved as silent witnesses of another era. The system is fully computer-controlled: scientists simply enter the galactic coordinates, and the telescope automatically adjusts to the desired position. 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