Are you someone who has seen photos or videos of abandoned buildings on the internet and wishes to witness them firsthand? Then welcome to the urbex community! This article can serve as a useful guide to those who want to start urbexing! Here we jump over the wall. < Back How to Urbex – A Beginner’s Guide Are you someone who has seen photos or videos of abandoned buildings on the internet and wishes to witness them firsthand? Then welcome to the urbex community! This article can serve as a useful guide to those who want to start urbexing! Here we jump over the wall. Urban exploration, commonly known as "urbex," is a thrilling yet controversial pastime centered around exploring abandoned or restricted buildings and areas. It's an activity that delves into the mystery of the unknown, uncovering hidden stories and overlooked spaces. For beginners eager to start an urbex journey, here are some basic tips to get you started. I am exploring an abandoned culture house with wonderful frescoes Research and Plan Your Exploration Before embarking on your urbex journey, conduct thorough research on potential locations. Look through online forums, social media groups, and urbex websites where enthusiasts share information about accessible sites. Pay attention to the legal status of locations and any potential hazards. Create a plan detailing how to reach the site, which entry points to use, the site's history, and the best times to visit. Next step: Google Earth! Google Earth is an excellent tool for locating and exploring buildings. It requires time and careful research. For instance, if we know that Village X once housed top sanatoriums, we open Google Earth and begin searching through buildings. Compared to regular houses, large sanatoriums are easily spotted. Pay attention to nearby parked cars. No cars? It's likely abandoned! A rusty and damaged roof can also indicate the building's condition. Via Google Earth, you can determine if any windows are intact. Recently, I stumbled upon this building (see image below) situated high on a hill. Exploring an abandoned building via Google Earth No nearby cars, no windows! Though it appeared spacious, upon exploration, I found it looted, devoid of artworks, with only bare walls. Sometimes, things don't go as planned. At least the hilltop view was picturesque! Via Google Earth, you can also identify entry points and plan your route. Simply copy the coordinates (I prefer researching on desktop), paste them into your preferred mapping application (like Yandex Maps or Mapsme), and you're ready to go! 2. Choose the right location For beginners, it is advisable to start exploring easy and accessible locations. Common starting points include abandoned culture houses, hotels, or hospitals. Avoid high-security or dangerous areas initially. As you gain experience, you can gradually explore more challenging sites like abandoned factories or abandoned military bases. However, be cautious as these locations may still be guarded or off-limits. Prioritize safety and legality in your choices. When approaching a building, conduct thorough research if you're unsure about how to enter. Drones can be helpful, providing a better view of the surroundings and ongoing activities. Only enter a building after careful consideration and assessing potential risks. My Panasonic Lumix G7. It's not good for low light conditions but that's all I have for now 3. Safety First Safety should be your top priority during urbex adventures. Be aware of potential hazards, especially unstable structures and treacherous stairs. Avoid stepping on stairs with a group. Always inform someone about your whereabouts and explore with a buddy when possible. Carry a charged phone for emergencies or better have a power bank with you! 4. Be Mindful of Legalities Respect the law and private property. Urbex exists in a legal gray area, and trespassing can lead to fines or legal consequences. Seek permission whenever possible or explore sites where access is allowed. Remember that preserving the location's integrity is crucial for the urbex community's reputation. The stun gun helps to scare off the dogs 5. Right Gear Urbex requires some essential gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. These may include: Flashlights: Flashlights are crucial as buildings often lack natural light. Consider using a headlamp or camera light for better shots. Camera: Capture the beauty of abandoned places. Be respectful and avoid vandalism. Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing, including sturdy shoes and gloves. Avoid wearing colorful clothing to avoid drawing attention. First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, so it's wise to be prepared with a basic first aid kit. Food: You never know how long your exploration will take. Take enough food and water with you. Tools: Consider carrying a multitool and an electric shocker to scare off dogs. My GoPro Hero 9 with a head strap 6. Follow the Urbex Code of Ethics Respect for the places you explore is paramount. Follow the urbex code of ethics, which generally includes: "Take only photos, leave only footprints." Leave everything as you found it. Do not take or disturb items. Avoid any form of graffiti or destruction. Preserve the site's authenticity. 7. Develop Navigation Skills Many urbex locations are vast and maze-like, and it's easy to get disoriented. Improve your navigation skills by marking key points, taking note of landmarks, and having a reliable map or GPS device. This will help you navigate through complex structures and ensure a safe return. 8. Stay Stealthy While urbex is legal in some places, it's not universally accepted. Stay unnoticed to avoid unwanted attention. Avoid colorful clothing, park your vehicle away from the site, and enter and exit quietly. Whenever I see a local looking at me from afar, I always greet and initiate a friendly chat! This makes me approachable and avoids raising suspicions that I might be a thief or something else. I always keep my camera hanging from my neck to give the impression that I am a photographer and do not have bad intentions. Greetings from an abandoned sanatorium built by German war prisoners 9. Document Your Experience Responsibly Documenting your urbex adventures is part of the thrill. However, do so responsibly and without compromising the site's integrity. Share your experiences through photography or blogging, but avoid revealing specific locations to prevent unwanted visitors or vandals. 10. Learn from Experienced Urbexers Connect with experienced urbexers to gain insights and tips. Join online forums, attend meet-ups, and learn from the community's collective knowledge. Experienced explorers can provide valuable advice on safety, locations, and ethical urbex practices. Embarking on your urbex journey as a beginner is an exciting yet daunting step into the unknown. Remember, any initial anxiety will likely fade once you jump over the wall! With careful planning, safety measures, and respect for the locations you visit, you can revel in the excitement of urban exploration while also preserving the integrity of these abandoned treasures. Safe and memorable explorations await! 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 . 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This cultural house in Armenia serves as a portal to the Soviet past, unveiling a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Remaining unrenovated, it has retained its original appearance, becoming a unique relic from the past that attracts urban explorers worldwide. < Back A Soviet Culture House in High Modernist Style This cultural house in Armenia serves as a portal to the Soviet past, unveiling a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Remaining unrenovated, it has retained its original appearance, becoming a unique relic from the past that attracts urban explorers worldwide. The Palace of Culture of Metsamor, founded between 1975 and 1986, later took on the name of Vazgen Sargsyan. Architects Martin Mikayelyan and Fred Africyan designed it in the high modernist style, characterized by aesthetic monotony, including large undecorated buildings with minimalist interiors, reaching its peak during the Cold War decades of 1950-1990. The facade of the culture house Since its opening in 1986, the Palace of Culture has never closed its doors to the audience and students. Unlike other buildings damaged or destroyed in the 90s, preservation efforts by the Metsamor House of Culture staff have kept everything intact, hosting theater performances and cultural events. The ceiling had a unique style and I liked it a lot. The House of Culture encompasses three groups: fine arts, needlework, and dance. Additionally, the Metsamor public library, housing over 32,000 pieces of literature, is located here. Presently, around 100 students engage in studies at the 694-seat Palace of Culture, participating in groups focused on ethnography, folk dances, and fine arts. 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 The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia 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 Previous Next

This one-day tour covers some of Armenia's most iconic landmarks – must-visit sites for every traveler exploring the country. The journey takes you from ancient pagan history to the dawn of Christianity and the 9th century, when the Sevanavank Monastery was founded. We’ll visit the Garni Pagan Temple, the only surviving Greco-Roman colonnaded temple in the post-Soviet region, followed by the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, famous for its rock-hewn churches and deep spiritual heritage. According to tradition, the Holy Lance – believed to have pierced Christ’s side during the crucifixion – was once kept here. Finally, we’ll head to the Sevan Peninsula to explore the 9th-century Sevanavank Monastery and admire the sweeping views of Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes. < Back Garni-Geghard & Sevanavank Day Sightseeing Tour This one-day tour covers some of Armenia's most iconic landmarks – must-visit sites for every traveler exploring the country. The journey takes you from ancient pagan history to the dawn of Christianity and the 9th century, when the Sevanavank Monastery was founded. We’ll visit the Garni Pagan Temple, the only surviving Greco-Roman colonnaded temple in the post-Soviet region, followed by the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, famous for its rock-hewn churches and deep spiritual heritage. According to tradition, the Holy Lance – believed to have pierced Christ’s side during the crucifixion – was once kept here. Finally, we’ll head to the Sevan Peninsula to explore the 9th-century Sevanavank Monastery and admire the sweeping views of Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes. Itinerary Highlights 1️⃣ Charents Arch Also called the "Temple of Ararat," this monument, designed by architect Rafael Israelyan in 1957, perfectly frames Mount Ararat on a clear day. Built from basalt and lined with orange tuff, it stands at 1,500 meters above sea level, measuring 10 x 5.5 m and 5 m in height – a stunning natural frame for Armenia’s biblical mountain. 2️⃣ Garni Pagan Temple Built in the 1st century AD under King Tiridates I, Garni is the only standing Greco-Roman pagan temple in the region. Dedicated to Mihr, the Armenian sun god, it survived centuries of history and Armenia’s Christian conversion in 301 AD. After being destroyed by an earthquake in 1679, it was carefully reconstructed in the 1970s, now serving as a rare glimpse into Armenia’s pre-Christian past. 3️⃣ Symphony of Stones A breathtaking natural wonder featuring hexagonal basalt columns shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago, resembling giant organ pipes. Similar formations exist worldwide, such as the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland or Fingal's Cave in Scotland. The murmur of the Azat River beneath the cliffs creates a magical, natural "symphony." 4️⃣ Geghard Monastery Founded in the 4th century by St. Gregory the Illuminator, Geghard is partly carved into solid rock, making it a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture. Its name, meaning "Monastery of the Spear," refers to the Holy Lance once kept here, believed to have been brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus. Today, the relic is housed in Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. 5️⃣ Sevanavank Monastery Situated on the Sevan Peninsula at 1,900 meters above sea level, this 9th-century monastic complex offers breathtaking views of Lake Sevan. Once an island monastery, Sevanavank is among the most picturesque and historically significant sites in Armenia. The tour is conducted in a Mitsubishi Pajero IV Tour Details Start: 8:00 AM, Yerevan Finish: 5:00 PM, Yerevan Distance: ~200 km Price: 90,000 AMD (per group of 1–4 people) Additional Costs: 1,800 AMD per person (entry to Garni Temple & Symphony of Stones) Includes: Transportation and professional guide service Project Gallery Previous Next

If you are planning a trip to the pagan Temple Garni or Geghard Monastery, make sure to stop near the Arch of Charents on your way to enjoy the view towards the biblical Mount Ararat! The following article provides brief information about this popular tourist destination in Armenia. < Back The Arch of Charents or The Temple Of Ararat If you are planning a trip to the pagan Temple Garni or Geghard Monastery, make sure to stop near the Arch of Charents on your way to enjoy the view towards the biblical Mount Ararat! The following article provides brief information about this popular tourist destination in Armenia. The Arch of Charents, also known as the Temple of Ararat, is a monument situated in the village of Voghjaberd, Kotayk region, on the right side of the Yerevan-Garni road, at an altitude of 1500 meters. In the mid-1950s, architect Rafael Israelyan was driving along the road leading to Garni when he noticed a magnificent view of Mount Ararat from the hill of Voghjaberd village. Intrigued by the scene, the architect decided to build an arch in that location. The memorial was erected in 1957, and originally, the architect intended to pay tribute to mount Ararat, naming it "The Temple of Ararat." Several flights of stairs lead to the top of the hill, where the temple is located. Upon reaching it, on a clear day, the viewer is presented with Mount Ararat in all its glory, perfectly framed within the arch’s opening. The arch is constructed externally of basalt and internally lined with orange tuff. The composition of the arch is rectangular in plan: 10 x 5.5 m, with a height of 5 m. A close friend and neighbor of Israelyan, the renowned Armenian painter Martiros Saryan, inspired by the structure, created his famous painting "The Arch of Charents" in 1958. Engraved along the arch are lines from the poem "I am my sweet Armenia" by the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents. “Աշխարհ անցիր, Արարատի նման ճերմակ գագաթ չկա, Ինչպես անհաս փառքի ճամփա, ես իմ Մասիս սարն եմ սիրում։ Go around the world, there is no white peak like Ararat. Like a path to unreachable glory, I love my Mount Masis." Consequently, among Armenians, the arch is better known as "The Arch of Charents" rather than the Temple of Ararat. 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 the mysterious history of Armenian Vishaps also known as Dragons or Dragonstones scattered across the breathtaking landscapes of the Geghama Mountains. Nestled at high altitudes near natural and artificial ponds, these monoliths hold a profound connection to the worship of water. < Back Dragons of Azhdahak - Armenia's Megalithic Marvels Explore the mysterious history of Armenian Vishaps also known as Dragons or Dragonstones scattered across the breathtaking landscapes of the Geghama Mountains. Nestled at high altitudes near natural and artificial ponds, these monoliths hold a profound connection to the worship of water. Vishapakar (also known as dragon, dragon-stone, megalithic monument, menhirs) are monoliths found in abundance in the Armenian Highland, situated at high altitudes, near natural and artificial ponds, as well as other water sources in proximity to high-altitude lakes, and are intricately linked to the worship of water. The dragon-stones of Geghama mountains, located near Dragon Lake! Photo is taken in 1970s and as you can see they are still lying horizontally! Notably, there are four dragon stones; two of them were subsequently transported to Yerevan and are currently showcased in Tigran Mets Park. Photo credits: Vladimir Saroyan's Facebook account. There are approximately 150 known Vishaps discovered in the Armenian Highland, with 90 of them located in Armenia. Dragonstones or Vishaps mostly appear in groups at altitudes of about 2300-3200 m above sea level, situated in well-defined concave meadow environments, which significantly reduces their visibility. There are also isolated examples at altitudes ranging from 1200 to 2300 m above sea level. Commonly carved from a single piece of stone, they take the form of cigar-like shapes with fish heads or serpents. Made of basalt, they are 150-550 cm high, and, based on their shape and iconography, they are divided into three types: Bull-shaped (with four sides, in the form of a thick slab, featuring the image of a bull's head and hanging limbs on the front side). Fish-shaped (round in cross-section, carved to resemble a fish with anatomical details). Hybrid type combining characteristics of the previous two. Most of the Vishaps found were lying horizontally, having fallen from their original standing positions. A photo of Nikolai Marr posing for a photo while standing near a gigantic dragon-stone! Geghama mountains, 1909 The concept of Vishaps was introduced by the Armenian writer Atrpet in 1880, with his work being published in 1926. In 1909, during excavations at Armenia's Pagan Temple of Garni by Nicholas Marr and Yakov Smirnov, local residents shared stories about Vishaps dwelling in the mountains. This prompted a scientific expedition to Geghama mountains to confirm the existence of Vishaps and assess their scientific significance. The findings from the Geghama mountains were published in 1931. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KahP2Ma6TIE The Dragon guards... 😅 Due to Mount Azhdahak's popularity as a tourist destination, two notable Vishaps are recognized, situated on the shore of the Dragon Lake (Vishapalich). These are among the best-known examples. Type: Bull-shaped Stone: Red basalt Size of the big Vishap: 400×150×65 Size of the small Vishap: 205×76×24 A sketch of the dragonstone from Boris Piotrovsky’s book "Vishaps, Stone Monuments in Armenian Monuments." Both are located at an altitude of 2700 meters near the high-altitude lake Dragon Lake. They were installed in a vertical position by the "Vishap" tour agency. During subsequent works, the large Vishap was split into two parts and then carefully rejoined. Hrach Hayrapetyan sitting on the dragonstone which is currently showcased in front of Government Building 3 This dragonstone was discovered in 1986 in the Geghama Mountains on the way from Geghard to Geghama mountains in a location called Chairasi. The father of Hrach Hayrapetyan, a resident of Goght village, Karabala Hayrapetyan, asked his son to place that stone on his grave after his death. Hayrapetyan dies in 1992, and Hrach, along with two dozen fellow villagers, loads the dragon stone onto a car and brings it to the Goght cemetery in 1993. Priest Ter Petros of Geghard learns that they want to place a dragon stone as a khachkar on the grave and prevents this step by prohibiting the reuse of the historical monument. Father Petros informs the architect Stepan Nalbandyan about it. The latter visits Goght, after which their actions were stopped. Until 2001, the stone remained in the Goght cemetery. Then, Stepan Nalbandian moved it to Yerevan, to the yard of the National Museum-Institute of Architecture (Government Building 3). It was erected in the same year by the director of the institute, Ashot Grigoryan. Vazgen Poghosyan operated the crane and also prepared the concrete mixture. Despite constant transfers, the monument is in good condition, although the left part of the headpiece is broken. The monument still stands in front of Government Building 3. This Vishap, shaped like a fish and a bull, was discovered in 1909 by N. Marr and Y. Smirnov in the Geghama Mountains at a site called Sakhurak. In 1970, it was relocated to Yerevan, where it is currently on display in Circular Park. 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Horom's cyclopean fortress is one of the most mysterious places in Armenia! Erected without mortar these megalithic stones formed a mighty wall, that stood for thousands of years! The methods employed to cut, move, and lift these stones remain a captivating mystery! < Back Horom's Cyclopean Fortress in Armenia Horom's cyclopean fortress is one of the most mysterious places in Armenia! Erected without mortar these megalithic stones formed a mighty wall, that stood for thousands of years! The methods employed to cut, move, and lift these stones remain a captivating mystery! The Classical Greeks believed that, since the walls of ancient Mycenae (which was already in ruins in the Classical Era) was so magnificent, entirely made out of huge boulders, it was probably the Cyclopean giants that helped the Mycenaeans built the walls. Me posing for a photo while standing among the ruins of Horom's cyclopean fortress As I stand in the vicinity of Horom's Cyclopean fortress, I am in awe of the colossal rock fragments before me, prompting a lingering question: “How did our ancestors manage to lift such enormous weights during the 3rd-2nd millennium B.C.?” Could giants have been involved, or did our ancestors simply master the ingenious methods of leveraging and pulleys? The sheer length of Horom's defensive walls, estimated to be approximately 7 km, only adds to the mystery. Throughout the 20th century, numerous renowned researchers have explored this mysterious fortress, including Nikolai Marr, Boris Piotrovsky, Atrpet, Toros Toramanian, and others. Prominent Armenian architect and architectural historian Toros Toramanian Notably, Toros Toramanian, a celebrated Armenian architect and archaeologist, wrote about his impressions in his travel notes: “Horom's fortress city is the only one among all ancient fortress cities in terms of its size and content, and it is impossible to observe without amazement what kind of extraordinary human power and resources were used to raise the wall stones on top of each other.” I left this place with the intention of returning, because this time there was a strong wind and I could not lift my drone, and I hope that the area will be improved one day and it will become a popular tourist destination! 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

The "Mother Armenia" monument in Gyumri is a prominent Soviet-era landmark located in the southwestern part of the city, adjacent to the historic Black Fortress. Installed in 1975, this monument is a must-visit for those interested in Soviet monuments and art, making it an essential addition to any tour package in Armenia. < Back Mother Armenia in Gyumri The "Mother Armenia" monument in Gyumri is a prominent Soviet-era landmark located in the southwestern part of the city, adjacent to the historic Black Fortress. Installed in 1975, this monument is a must-visit for those interested in Soviet monuments and art, making it an essential addition to any tour package in Armenia. The statue was officially unveiled on May 9, 1975, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War and to honor the memory of the many residents of Gyumri who participated in the war. The monument, designed by architect Rafael Yeghoyan and sculpted by Ara Sargsyan, is a harmonious blend of architecture and sculpture, featuring a 21-meter-high pedestal and a 20-meter-high statue. Mother Armenia in Gyumri and the Black fortress as seen by my drone The pedestal, constructed from dark tuff, ascends steeply on a hill, merging with the sky, with its vertical lines accentuating its height. The statue, made of tempered copper, depicts a young woman in a serene and epic pose. She holds a capital of Zvartnots Cathedral in one hand, symbolizing the Armenian people's peaceful creativity and architectural genius, while the other hand holds a palm branch. The figure, standing proud and half-clothed, is a work of classical beauty, characterized by its graceful posture, flowing silhouette, and the plasticity of the folds in her clothing. The back of the monument features an image of Nemesis, the winged goddess of Greek retribution, adding a layer of depth to its symbolic meaning. In front of the monument lies the grave of the unknown soldier, marked by an eternal flame and a raised clenched fist. This monument is not only a regional version of Yerevan's Victory Monument but also serves a dual purpose: to celebrate the victory with grand architectural and sculptural expressions, to honor the fallen, and to extol the virtues of peaceful creation. 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

It was already getting dark when we reached this abandoned train station, and the atmosphere left a deep impression on me. Standing there, the iconic statue of a young girl caught my eye—her graceful hand gesture, once holding a pigeon, now seemed to highlight the eerie beauty of this forgotten place. In this article, you’ll discover the history, development, and decline of this remarkable site. Highly recommended for urbex photographers and history enthusiasts visiting Armenia. < Back Near the Armenian–Iranian border stands a beautiful, abandoned train station It was already getting dark when we reached this abandoned train station, and the atmosphere left a deep impression on me. Standing there, the iconic statue of a young girl caught my eye—her graceful hand gesture, once holding a pigeon, now seemed to highlight the eerie beauty of this forgotten place. In this article, you’ll discover the history, development, and decline of this remarkable site. Highly recommended for urbex photographers and history enthusiasts visiting Armenia. The Meghri–Nakhichevan railway line, including the Meghri station, was launched in the autumn of 1943, during World War II. It was built to support industrial freight transport and to connect southern parts of Armenia with the wider Soviet rail network. At the time, the railway offered the only practical alternative to the long and difficult highway between Yerevan and Meghri. The Yerevan–Baku railway began in Yerevan, passed through Nakhichevan, Meghri, and Kapan, and continued to Baku, with approximately 40 kilometers of the line running along Armenia’s southern border near Iran. This railway served as a crucial link between Yerevan, the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhichevan, and Baku. (Historically, Nakhichevan was part of Armenia until 1921, when it was transferred to Azerbaijan by the Bolsheviks. On March 16, 1921, Soviet Russia and Turkey signed the Treaty of Moscow, placing Nakhichevan under the “protectorate” of Soviet Azerbaijan. Before that, it had been part of the First Republic of Armenia.) In the 1960s, a new station building was constructed in Meghri. Later, in the 1970s, Azerbaijani authorities planned to install a bust of Mashadi Azizbekov, an Azerbaijani Bolshevik and one of the Baku Commissars. However, one night, a bust of Stepan Shahumyan, a prominent Armenian revolutionary, mysteriously appeared in its place — secretly relocated from the Agarak mining combine. The bust remained in place until 1993, when it was damaged by vandals. It lay discarded beneath its pedestal for almost 3 decades before ultimately disappearing in recent years. In the station’s final years of operation, 20 to 23 trains, each with more than 50 wagons, passed through Meghri daily in both directions. After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the outbreak of the Artsakh liberation war, freight wagons loaded in Meghri and routed through Nakhichevan no longer reached Yerevan. As a result, the operation of the station was inevitably suspended, and the last train passed through Meghri on the night of April 23, 1992. By 2003, the railway section from Kapan to Meghri had been dismantled, and approximately 70 wagons and rails were scrapped. Today, what remains is a quiet, nostalgic scene: the cozy station building, a few rusting carriages, the empty pedestal where Shahumyan's bust once stood, and a statue of a young girl — her graceful pose as if pointing toward the silent echoes of a once-vibrant station. 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 The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia 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 Previous Next

Armenian Explorer offers hiking, trekking, camping and urbex tours in Armenia. Unleash your inner adventurer and join my guided tours to discover the best places in Armenia. Popular Tours in Armenia In this section of my website, I have curated the most popular tours in Armenia, ranging from cultural experiences to urban exploration, and from hiking to trekking adventures. If you’re seeking the best places to hike in Armenia, the top hiking trails and routes, or must-visit destinations, you’re in the right place. With a diverse array of options, you’ll easily find the perfect journey tailored to your interests. Join my guided tours in Armenia to ensure your visit is not only memorable but also truly exceptional. Learn More Sightseeing Tours in Armenia Armenia, a country steeped in history and ancient traditions, offers a unique opportunity to explore its stunning landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Join Armenian Explorer for personalized sightseeing tours that immerse you in Armenia's rich past. From ancient cyclopean fortresses and the iconic Garni Pagan Temple to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the first Christian cathedral, and the world’s tallest statue of Jesus Christ, immerse yourself in Armenia’s rich heritage. Discover its vibrant traditions, festive celebrations, and exquisite cuisine. Whether you're passionate about history, Soviet-era architecture, or seeking to experience Armenia's breathtaking landscapes, my expertly curated sightseeing tours provide an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of this fascinating country. Learn More Off-road tours in Armenia Armenia, a mountainous country in the South Caucasus, offers more than just scenic hiking trails — it’s also a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. With winding dirt tracks, remote mountain passes, and rugged landscapes, off-roading in Armenia takes you to places few tourists ever reach. From dramatic cliffs to hidden waterfalls, these routes lead to raw, untouched nature. In this section of my website, you’ll find unique off-road tours I personally organize — perfect for bold travelers looking to experience Armenia far from the beaten path. Learn More

Explore the historic Yerevan Children's Railway nestled in the picturesque Hrazdan gorge. Established in 1937, this 2.1 km railway features iconic stations like "Motherland" and "Pioneer." Discover its rich history, from its inception to present-day plans for renovation and revitalization. Experience a piece of Armenia's railway heritage. < Back The abandoned Children's Railway in Yerevan Explore the historic Yerevan Children's Railway nestled in the picturesque Hrazdan gorge. Established in 1937, this 2.1 km railway features iconic stations like "Motherland" and "Pioneer." Discover its rich history, from its inception to present-day plans for renovation and revitalization. Experience a piece of Armenia's railway heritage. Yerevan Children's Railway, located in the Kentron community of Yerevan, stretches 2.1 km along the Hrazdan gorge. Stations include "Motherland," "Pioneer," and "Happiness." Through the thick trees I can see the marvelous railway station building In 1935, the idea of creating a children's railway in Yerevan was proposed by the Minister of Railway Transport of Armenia, Babken Amatuni, and the first secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Agassi Khanjian. In 1935, the USSR state plan included the construction of the Yerevan children's railway in the 1936 annual plan. On April 22, 1936, in the city park named after Abovyan, Aghasi Khanjyan and Babken Amatuni laid the foundation stone for the "Lighthouse" station, later renamed "Motherland" station. These stained glass windows are perfect for photography Scheduled to open on November 7, 1937, the day of the October Revolution victory, the children's railway officially opened earlier on July 6, 1937, thanks to the efforts of Babken Amatun, the Minister of Railway Transport of Armenia. The chief architect of the children's railway park was Mikael Mazmanyan. The former wooden railway station building was replaced in the late 1940s by a stone building designed by architect Babken S. Hakobyan, with the last tower designed by architect Gohar Grigoryan. Another look at the railway station building In 1937, locomotive 159-434 and three passenger cars donated by the Podolsk locomotive factory were put into operation. The steam locomotive from 1937, no longer operational, is considered Armenia's oldest. It is located at the "Motherland" station. In 1959, the railway received two PAFAWAG metal passenger cars, and in 1971, the TU2-116 locomotive. Until the end of its working days, the Children's Railway operated with a TU2-096 locomotive and two passenger cars produced by the Kaluga machine-building plant in 1957. The tunnel from the "Happiness" to the "Pioneer" station was built in 1956, spanning 45 m in length. I loved these stained glass windows Previously, the station building housed private rooms for the station master and guard, a telegraph office, a health room, and a cash register. The playground featured pools of water, fountains, a reading room, a dance and sports field, a game room, kiosks, and a buffet. A statue of Stalin once stood on the hill leading from the playground to the station. Currently, the Children's Railway territory is privatized. 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 The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia 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 Previous Next

I have visited many libraries in Armenia, but this one impressed me the most with its extensive collection of technical literature. Unfortunately, the Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia will be closed due to a highly criticized decision by the Armenian Government. Read more in the article. < Back The Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia I have visited many libraries in Armenia, but this one impressed me the most with its extensive collection of technical literature. Unfortunately, the Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia will be closed due to a highly criticized decision by the Armenian Government. Read more in the article. The Republican Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia, founded in 1957, initially operated on Moskovyan Street. In 1982, it moved to 49/1 Komitas Avenue. The library's mission is to collect scientific, technical, and patent resources, and provide scientific and technical information and library services. Three floors of the library were full of bookshelves, with each floor divided into two levels The library's collection includes approximately 22 million copies of literature, including: Books: deposited manuscripts and dissertation abstracts Periodicals: magazines, press journals, informative bulletins, analytical bulletins, and official bulletins covering the RA legal framework Patents: copyright certificates, descriptions of inventions and utility models, trademarks, industrial design bulletins, and press publications Industrial catalogs: brand catalogs and price lists Normative-technical documents (standards): state standards, industry standards, specifications, magazines, and collections on standards Video tapes Cassettes Optical drives (CD, DVD) ------------------ 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 The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia 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 Previous Next

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