During one of our urbex expeditions, we explored an abandoned rest house hidden deep in the forest. In Soviet times, it was a popular retreat for Ministry of Transport employees and was known as Narine. Today, the complex is slowly deteriorating, but it is currently for sale and awaiting an owner willing to invest and restore its former glory. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs During one of our urbex expeditions, we explored an abandoned rest house hidden deep in the forest. In Soviet times, it was a popular retreat for Ministry of Transport employees and was known as Narine. Today, the complex is slowly deteriorating, but it is currently for sale and awaiting an owner willing to invest and restore its former glory. A narrow road led us uphill through dense woodland and worn asphalt. At the end of the road, a multi-storey building emerged among tall trees. We parked nearby and walked up a cascade that once echoed with flowing water. Above the entrance, a distinctive metal bas-relief decorates the façade. Photographing it properly was difficult, as surrounding trees partially obstruct the view. Passing through a narrow opening, we entered the building and encountered a surprisingly well-preserved interior. The site is secluded from public access and mostly guarded, which has protected it from vandalism. The interior left a strong impression. Uniqely designed ceilings, red curtains, and chandeliers form a cohesive architectural ensemble. In the kitchen, a large bas-relief covers an entire wall, depicting several female figures—one holding a harp, another grapes. The rest house also features a cinema hall with an especially atmospheric interior. 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

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

We stepped inside and found ourselves in a remarkably well-preserved Soviet driving school. The interior felt like a time capsule—walls lined with posters on mechanization, civil defense, traffic regulations, and even diagrams of various firearm mechanisms. Scale models and early driving simulators sat quietly, untouched for decades, telling the story of an era when driving education went far beyond simply learning to operate a vehicle. This article sheds light on this fascinating place, offering a glimpse into a unique piece of Soviet history. < Back Exploring a Soviet-era abandoned driving school in Armenia We stepped inside and found ourselves in a remarkably well-preserved Soviet driving school. The interior felt like a time capsule—walls lined with posters on mechanization, civil defense, traffic regulations, and even diagrams of various firearm mechanisms. Scale models and early driving simulators sat quietly, untouched for decades, telling the story of an era when driving education went far beyond simply learning to operate a vehicle. This article sheds light on this fascinating place, offering a glimpse into a unique piece of Soviet history. Soviet driving schools, especially those operating under DOSAAF (Volunteer Society for Cooperation with the Army, Aviation, and Fleet), were far more than simple institutions where one learned to operate a vehicle. They were an integral part of the USSR's system for preparing skilled personnel for both civilian life and the military. This place was full of posters! I photographed as many as I could, though I won’t publish them all here. In the future, I plan to dedicate a separate article to the posters I’ve seen during my urban explorations. DOSAAF was officially established in 1951 , uniting several pre-existing organizations such as DOSARM, DOSAV, and DOSFLOT . Its roots, however, went back even earlier to OSOAVIAKHIM , a 1920s organization dedicated to training technical specialists, including drivers, mechanics, radio operators, and even pilots. The idea was to equip the Soviet Union with a steady flow of people ready to serve both the economy and national defense. These simulators blew my mind! I took a seat to get some driving lessons A Higher Standard of Training DOSAAF driving schools stood out for their high level of instruction . Graduates weren’t just drivers—they understood vehicle mechanics, basic repairs, and safe operation in challenging conditions. Many courses had a military touch , preparing participants to drive heavy trucks or army vehicles if needed. Training usually lasted around six months , combining theory and practical lessons in an intensive schedule. Lessons often included: Detailed knowledge of vehicle construction Maintenance and troubleshooting skills Driving in difficult terrain and weather Discipline and responsibility expected of future military drivers The shelves were filled with scale models of various mechanical devices More Than Driving Lessons DOSAAF schools were also about patriotism and discipline . They instilled a sense of duty to the nation, making driving part of a broader preparation for service. The skills learned ensured graduates could work in the civilian sector —transportation, logistics, industry—or be called upon by the army when required. For many young Soviets, getting a license from DOSAAF was considered prestigious. It meant you were not just a driver but a qualified, reliable professional , ready to serve wherever the country needed you. 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 article is dedicated to this giant antenna, known as Orbita, which is located in Armenia and was once part of the vast Soviet satellite communication network. For decades, it played a key role in receiving television signals from Moscow and distributing them across the region. Today, the antenna stands as a powerful reminder of an era when satellite technology first made it possible to connect distant parts of the Soviet Union through television and radio broadcasts. < Back Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna This article is dedicated to this giant antenna, known as Orbita, which is located in Armenia and was once part of the vast Soviet satellite communication network. For decades, it played a key role in receiving television signals from Moscow and distributing them across the region. Today, the antenna stands as a powerful reminder of an era when satellite technology first made it possible to connect distant parts of the Soviet Union through television and radio broadcasts. The history of Orbita antennas The Orbita system was a Soviet network of ground-based satellite communication stations created to distribute Central Television across the vast territory of the USSR. It was officially established in 1965 and became one of the most important technological projects of its time. The background of Orbita is closely linked to the launch of the Molniya-1 communication satellite on April 23, 1965. This satellite was placed into a highly elliptical orbit and made it possible to establish a stable long-distance communication link between Moscow and Vladivostok. At first, Orbita was created as a multi-channel satellite telephone line, not specifically for television broadcasting. The Orbita ground station antenna in Armenia Soon after, engineers realized that the same technology could be used to transmit television programs. Molniya-1 created a so-called “space bridge” that allowed TV signals to travel across enormous distances. This opened the door to building a distributed network of ground receiving stations capable of serving regions where traditional broadcasting was impossible. As a result, Orbita stations began to appear across Siberia, the Far East, Central Asia, and the Far North. One of the receiving television stations was located in Frunze (today’s Bishkek). These stations allowed people in remote areas to watch programs produced in Moscow for the first time. The system expanded rapidly. In 1967, the first 20 Orbita stations were put into operation. By 1970, there were already more than 50 stations, and by 1984, the network had grown to over 100 stations, including more than 10 transmit-and-receive stations. Each ground station was equipped with a large 12-meter parabolic antenna, mounted on a rotating platform. The antenna tracked the satellite as it moved across the sky, ensuring a stable signal. Later upgrades led to the creation of Orbita-2, which operated on higher frequencies and improved reliability while keeping the same antenna design. Thanks to the Orbita system, remote regions of the USSR gained access to one or two Central Television programs. To account for different time zones, broadcasts were recorded and retransmitted with time delays, allowing viewers to watch programs at appropriate local times. Orbita became the foundation for later Soviet satellite systems, including Raduga, Ekran, Gorizont, and Express. It played a key role in unifying the country’s information space and remains an important example of large-scale Soviet engineering and communication technology. Not much is left in the control room today. Alas, it could become a fantastic museum, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The Orbita station in Armenia Armenia was also part of this large network and had several Orbita antennas. At least three are known to me, and two of them have survived to this day. According to available information, the Orbita station became operational in November 1977, but it is not fully clear whether this date refers to this specific station or to a different antenna. Further verification is required. Russian-language technical sources, including publications such as Voprosy Radioelektroniki, identify the 12-meter dish as a standard satellite ground station (SSGS) of the Orbita type. Its launch coincided with the construction of the new 311.7-meter Yerevan TV Tower. This made it possible for Armenia to receive the Second Program of Central Television from Moscow via the Molniya and Raduga satellite constellations. In technical archives, the Orgov site is described not just as an observatory, but as a "Reference Center for Antenna Measurements" (Эталонный центр антенных измерений). This institution led by Paris Herouni, was responsible for high-precision antenna measurements. Antenna Metrology (Calibration): Herouni's main contribution was "Antenna Metrology." To prove the 54m telescope worked, he needed a "standard" to measure it against. The 12m Orbita antenna acted as the control variable. Scientists would receive a signal from a Molniya-1 satellite on the 12m Orbita (which had known parameters) and simultaneously on the ROT-54 to calculate the latter's efficiency. Dedicated data link: Because the ROT-54 produced large volumes of data by 1980s standards, standard telephone lines were not sufficient. The Orbita station provided a direct satellite link from Orgov to Moscow via the Raduga geostationary satellites, ensuring a stable, high-bandwidth channel for transmitting scientific data to central command. Old scientific documents are scattered around the place Is the Orbita System Still in Use Today? With the modernization and digitization of television broadcasting, the original role of the Orbita system has largely come to an end. Orbita was designed for analog satellite transmission, and modern TV distribution now relies on digital satellites, fiber-optic networks, and internet-based technologies. As a result, Orbita is no longer used as a main system for nationwide television broadcasting. That said, Orbita did not disappear overnight. During the transition to digital TV, parts of the network continued to operate in supporting or backup roles, especially in remote regions. Some ground stations were upgraded, repurposed, or integrated into newer communication systems, while others were gradually shut down and abandoned. Today, many former Orbita stations stand as relics of a past technological era. Some remain operational in limited technical roles, but most have historical rather than practical value. 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

Together with G. Mattu, with this article, we aimed to compile and document the destroyed bas-reliefs in Armenia, created by monumental artists during the Soviet era. Once integral parts of the country's cultural and architectural landscape, these works of art have been lost to time, metal scavengers, vandalism and neglect. Through this collection, we hope to preserve their memory and reflect on their historical and artistic significance. < Back Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Together with G. Mattu, with this article, we aimed to compile and document the destroyed bas-reliefs in Armenia, created by monumental artists during the Soviet era. Once integral parts of the country's cultural and architectural landscape, these works of art have been lost to time, metal scavengers, vandalism and neglect. Through this collection, we hope to preserve their memory and reflect on their historical and artistic significance. Bas-reliefs in the Soviet Union were used both as a powerful artistic form and as a tool for ideological expression. They served as a means to communicate Soviet values, promote political ideals, and glorify historical figures and events. These artworks were often integrated into public buildings, monuments, and institutions, reinforcing the narrative of the Soviet state and its achievements. This metal bas-relief once adorned the walls of the Automatics Plant in Vanadzor, a significant site in Armenia’s industrial heritage. Sadly, it vanished a few years ago, and its fate remains unknown. Notably, it was one of the rare bas-reliefs dedicated to a cosmic theme. Founded in 1956, the Automatics Plant played a crucial role in the instrument-making industry of both the USSR and Armenia, releasing its first products in 1959. Specializing in electrical measuring instruments for monitoring and regulating technological processes, the plant supplied its products across the Soviet Union and exported them to 25 countries worldwide. An identical bas-relief featuring two cosmonauts once decorated the entrance of the former Kosmos Kindergarten. The fate of this artwork remains unknown. This bas-relief once graced the lobby of the Central Post Office in Vanadzor, created between 1977 and 1978. Vahagn’s Battle with the Dragon – Kapan, 1966 Chiseled aluminum | Height: 1100 cm Sculptor: A. Harutyunyan | Architect: R. Israelyan Ara Harutyunyan’s Spring – 1963 Material: Aluminum | Location: Sayat-Nova Avenue Harutyunyan’s daughter, Susanna, recounts the fate of this monument: It was installed on Sayat-Nova Avenue, on the sidewalk in front of the old Academy (that building was later demolished), where his parental home once stood. However, the monument was destroyed in a car accident and was never restored. "Masquerade" Ceramic Bas-Relief 1983 – Inside the restaurant of the former actor's house, now the French Embassy. Sculptor: Eduard Beroyan After the building was repurposed and renovated, the bas-relief was destroyed. Another bas-relief by the prolific ceramist Eduard Beroyan once adorned the interior of the ArmElectro factory. Unfortunately, it no longer exists. The nursery of the Spitak textile factory once featured a bas-relief on the wall of its swimming pool, depicting what appeared to be a fairy. The building and the artwork were destroyed during the 1988 earthquake. Installed in 1968 at the entrance of Charentsavan, in Armenia’s Kotayk Province, this bas relief (front side) was created by renowned Armenian sculptor Tereza Mirzoyan (1922–2016) in collaboration with sculptor Suren Nazaryan (1929–1999). The back side of the same monument at the Entrance to Charentsavan city. Vladimir Atanyan was one of the artists whose bas-reliefs suffered the most, two of which were located inside the Dvin Hotel and disappeared after its renovation. Ceramic Bas-Relief – "Dvin – Old Town" (1979) Size: 3m × 6m × 75cm Location: Restaurant of the Dvin Hotel Artist: Vladimir Atanyan "Eternity" Bas-Relief – 1979 Dimensions: 4 x 2 meters Location: First floor, Dvin Hotel Interior, Yerevan Created by: Vladimir Atanyan “Generation” 1983/84 by Vladamir Atanyan. A large ceramic relief framed by mosaics, Generation once adorned the lobby of the Scientific Institute of Avan. Sometime between 2005 and 2010, the entire building was demolished, and the fate of the artwork remains unknown. Presumably, it was destroyed along with the building. A rare photo of the bas-relief "Generation", as seen in an old magazine Another work by Vladimir Atanyan decorated the wall of the restaurant in Ani Hotel. Created in 1986, it was later destroyed. Another artist whose works were significantly lost over time is Hmayak Bdeyan. Below are several examples. Institute of Winemaking – Bas-relief (Destroyed) – Artist Hmayak Bdeyan, 1967 (Size: 240 cm × 600 cm) On November 11, 2006, the first building of the "Rossia" commercial and cultural center was turned into a cafe and shopping halls. Unfortunately, the sculptures and paintings by Yervand Gojabashyan, Henry Elibekyan, Ohan Petrosyan, and Hmayak Bdeyan were later removed and up to this day their fate is unknown. The partition walls by Hmayak Bdeyan adorned the interior spaces of the Rossiya cinema. In total, they were 10 meters long and 3.5 meters high. This is how Bdeyan describes the creation of partitions inside the Rossiya cinema: “I faced a rather challenging task: to create partition walls that would separate one functional space from another without, as much as possible, dissecting the interior volumes of the building. I proposed assembling them from openwork cubic cells coated with glaze. These partitions, in my opinion, do not disrupt the scale of the space and are perceived as movable grids. I embedded large theatrical masks into them.” This photo shows the destroyed partition wall by Hmayak Bdeyan, lying on the ground. The fate of the sculptures remains unknown. In this old image, one can see a bas-relief inside the Rossiya Cinema. The artist remains unidentified, though it is believed to be Hmayak Bdeyan. Further verification is required. Hmayak Bdeyan's ceramic compositions adorned the Argishti Cafe on Mashtots Avenue, formerly Lenin Avenue. Their fate is unknown. Armenfilm, also known as Hayfilm, is an Armenian film studio located in Yerevan. The facade of Armenfilm’s main entrance once featured a metal bas-relief inspired by Yervand Kochar’s iconic Sasuntsi Davit statue. It disappeared long ago, and its fate is still a mystery. The image of Sasuntsi Davit also served as the studio’s production logo, appearing at the beginning of every film — much like the iconic studio logos seen in other film industries. In this old photo, two bas-reliefs are visible on the wall of the “Vahagn” Teahouse. Their fate remains unknown. Special thanks to Gurdeep Mattu for co-authoring this article. 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

Carlus, a traveler from Spain, joined my urban exploration tour in Armenia, during which we explored abandoned places and iconic Soviet-era locations in a Lada Niva he rented locally. This tour was especially nostalgic for me, as our family car was a red Niva, bringing back fond memories. Our journey took us from an abandoned cultural house to the Byurakan Observatory, the ROT54 telescope, abandoned pioneer camp, other Soviet-era sites, and eerie, abandoned copper tunnels, uncovering some of Armenia’s most hidden gems. Here is a brief overview of our tour. < Back Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Carlus, a traveler from Spain, joined my urban exploration tour in Armenia, during which we explored abandoned places and iconic Soviet-era locations in a Lada Niva he rented locally. This tour was especially nostalgic for me, as our family car was a red Niva, bringing back fond memories. Our journey took us from an abandoned cultural house to the Byurakan Observatory, the ROT54 telescope, abandoned pioneer camp, other Soviet-era sites, and eerie, abandoned copper tunnels, uncovering some of Armenia’s most hidden gems. Here is a brief overview of our tour. Carlus, a traveler from Spain, reached out to me before his trip to Armenia to join one of my urban exploration tours. Being a big fan of the Lada Niva, he rented that iconic car in Armenia to explore the country and dedicated two days to our urbex adventures. So, instead of my usual Volkswagen Jetta, the tour took place in the legendary Niva! On the first day, we met in Yerevan for a beer, and the next day he picked me up from our yard! I liked him right from the first handshake, and we instantly found a lot in common to talk about. He shared stories about his travels in his Toyota and how he navigated the roads of the Paris-Dakar rally, roaming Africa’s wild landscapes on his trusty iron horse! With Carlus at the Byurakan Observatory, behind us is an iconic building designed by Sargis Gurzadyan, which houses the ZTA-2.6 telescope, the largest observational instrument at the BAO. After the Byurakan Observatory, we headed to the nearby village of Ogov to see the legendary ROT54 telescope! Carlus is sitting in the control room of ROT54 Then we headed to the Lori Region! Of course, we made a pit stop at the Gntuniq food court to fuel up with some local food before exploring a Soviet-era pioneer camp called "Fairy Tale." For the night, we stayed near village of Odzun, where an old Soviet-era hotel is located. It was built in 1971 for the managers of the Alaverdi copper factory. I really enjoy this place, and it's where I usually suggest my guests stay! The view from Odzun hotel Situated at the foot of a mountain high above Odzun village, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the city buzz—no noise, just the whisper of nature and a beautiful view of Odzun village and the surrounding landscapes. Across an old and rusty bridge we are heading towards a tunnels of the copper mine to capture unearthly photos! Crossing over this bridge is raising some adrenaline! Our primary destination was the tunnels of the abandoned copper mine, which we explored the following day after visiting several other sites. We concluded the day with a visit to an abandoned plane in Hrazdan! Night urbex... lol. During our trip, Carlus shared many fascinating stories. Among them, he told me about an incredible location called Pozo Sotón. A quick note: Pozo Sotón is a historical coal mine situated in Asturias, Spain, near the town of San Martín del Rey Aurelio. It stands as a significant part of Spain's industrial heritage and has been repurposed into a captivating tourist destination. Visitors can delve into its underground chambers, gaining a profound understanding of miners' lives and the rich history of coal mining in the region. By the time I was writing this article, Carlus had sent me photos showing that he had finally visited Pozo Sotón. I couldn't be happier for him! 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

Shvanidzor feels like a place time forgot — quiet, sunburned, tucked into the reddish slopes of the Meghri region. The village sits about 11 km northeast of Meghri town and only a kilometer from the Arax River, resting at 600–700 meters above sea level. Once home to around a thousand people, today Shvanidzor has barely 280 residents. The local school has just 20 students. Life here runs slow and steady. But the village hides some serious architectural surprises. Today we will talk about the famous “Shvanidzor culture house”. < Back Inside One of the Most Impressive Culture Houses in Armenia Shvanidzor feels like a place time forgot — quiet, sunburned, tucked into the reddish slopes of the Meghri region. The village sits about 11 km northeast of Meghri town and only a kilometer from the Arax River, resting at 600–700 meters above sea level. Once home to around a thousand people, today Shvanidzor has barely 280 residents. The local school has just 20 students. Life here runs slow and steady. But the village hides some serious architectural surprises. Today we will talk about the famous “Shvanidzor culture house”. For such a small place, Shvanidzor has an unusual amount of heritage packed into its dusty streets. Medieval kahrezes — underground qanat-style water channels — still crisscross the area. Nearby you have centuries-old churches like Gyumerants and St. Stepanos (17th–19th centuries), and the older Berdikar Church dating back to the 12th–13th centuries. There’s even a 16th-century aqueduct and a 17th-century stone bridge quietly holding its ground. On the way, we stopped at a viewpoint where a beautiful view opens up over the Araks River, which forms the border between Armenia and Iran. And then there’s the culture house — the reason I came. In Armenian villages, culture houses are frozen Soviet memories — architectural relics that still reflect the style and spirit of that era. Shvanidzor’s, however, has a special charm. When we arrived, we found the door literally tied shut with twisted wires wrapped around the metal rings. But curiosity won, and I went inside. The interior of the Shvanidzor Culture House The moment I stepped into the main hall, I just stopped. The space hit me with its size, symmetry, and a strange sense of dignity. Even abandoned, the hall felt alive. I reacted like a starving kid at a table full of food — pulling out my camera, running from corner to corner, trying to catch every angle. You don’t often see culture halls like this anymore. There was one disappointment, though. I knew the projection room once had vintage Soviet posters — the kind that survive for decades in the dark. But they were gone. The projector room of the Shvanidzor Culture House Sadly, this is becoming a pattern. With tourism rising across Armenia, especially among visitors exploring Soviet heritage and urbex sites, old posters have started disappearing. Rumor has it they have high demand on the black market. As I’m writing this article at the end of 2025, the situation is shifting again. The village school is now being renovated, so classes are taking place right inside the culture house — on the stage. Kids are reciting their lessons where concerts and performances once happened. It’s oddly fitting: the building is stepping back into its original purpose, even if in an unexpected way. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like 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

Shvanidzor is located about 400 km from Yerevan and 11 km northeast of Meghri, just a kilometer from the Arax River, at an altitude of 600–700 meters. Once home to around a thousand people, it now has roughly 280 residents, and the local school teaches only 20 children. Time seems to stand still in this village, where historic buildings quietly bear witness to the past. Today, we’ll explore one of these architectural gems: a 19th-century house in the village. < Back Exploring a 19th-Century Abandoned House in Armenia Shvanidzor is located about 400 km from Yerevan and 11 km northeast of Meghri, just a kilometer from the Arax River, at an altitude of 600–700 meters. Once home to around a thousand people, it now has roughly 280 residents, and the local school teaches only 20 children. Time seems to stand still in this village, where historic buildings quietly bear witness to the past. Today, we’ll explore one of these architectural gems: a 19th-century house in the village. Despite its modest size, Shvanidzor holds an impressive historical legacy. Medieval kahrezes — old qanat-style water channels — still run beneath the village. Centuries-old churches such as Gyumerants and St. Stepanos (17th–19th centuries) still stand here, along with the older Berdikar Church from the 12th–13th centuries. There’s also a 16th-century aqueduct, a 17th-century stone bridge, and many historical buildings scattered around. Inside Shvanidzor culture house I’ve written before about the iconic Shvanidzor culture house. Today, with the little information available, I want to shed some light on another remarkable site — a 19th-century house I’ve known about for over ten years but somehow never managed to visit. In the summer of 2025, I finally did. …and then, high on the steep hillside, I saw the building After visiting the culture house, we continued uphill. The narrow road took us past several old buildings with typical local architecture. Then, on a steep slope, the two-story house came into view — perched above the village, with its distinctive white façade, three arches, and a balcony. Built in 1890, it was once considered one of Shvanidzor’s finest homes. Unfortunately, I still don’t have clear details about who lived there or what stories it carries. For now, I’ll let the photos speak for themselves. 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 abandoned Soviet-Armenian culture house offers a thrilling architectural design which urban explorers will definitely appreciate! < Back Discover a Soviet Time Culture House in Armenia This abandoned Soviet-Armenian culture house offers a thrilling architectural design which urban explorers will definitely appreciate! Arshaluys Culture House is one of the most impressive buildings you can find in Armenian villages. It was constructed in 1961, designed by the architect Razmik Alaverdyan. Unfortunately, a damaged roof became the primary cause of the early deterioration of the culture house. Despite the interior being in a state of disrepair, one can still discern its majestic architectural design. Fortunately, the roof has now been renovated, and efforts are underway to fully restore the culture house. A nice bas-relief on the facade! One can even discern an Armenian inscription «Նուրիջանյան Կառլեն 1961», “Nurijanyan Karlen 1961”! Karlen Nurijanyan was a renowned Armenian sculptor, famous for “Hayk Nahapet”, “Torq Angegh”, “Vahagn Dragonslayer” and many other statues! Emblem of the Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic on the top of the stage. The Armenian SSR emblem, designed from a sketch by painter Martiros Saryan, was adopted in 1937. Featuring Mount Ararat, it drew objections from Turkey. The Kremlin retorted that although the Turkish symbol was the crescent, surely it did not mean that they laid claim to the moon. In 1992, the emblem evolved in the current Armenian coat of arms, retaining Mount Ararat. 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

In this article, I present one of Armenia’s most distinctive Soviet-era architectural landmarks—the Chayka monument. You’ll learn why it provoked Khrushchev’s anger, how it defied official Soviet ideology, and how it still stands today as a rare example of clever engineering and artistic expression that outlived strict political doctrine and the test of time. < Back The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia In this article, I present one of Armenia’s most distinctive Soviet-era architectural landmarks—the Chayka monument. You’ll learn why it provoked Khrushchev’s anger, how it defied official Soviet ideology, and how it still stands today as a rare example of clever engineering and artistic expression that outlived strict political doctrine and the test of time. In 1961, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev visited Armenia. On his way to Lake Sevan, the Armenian delegation accompanying him—headed by Yakov Nikitovich Zarobyan , First Secretary of the Communist Party of Soviet Armenia—decided to stop near a newly erected monument known as “Chayka” (“The Seagull”) to present it to the Soviet leader. That decision turned out to be a mistake. Upon seeing the monument, Khrushchev reportedly became visibly irritated. The reason lies not only in personal taste, but in Soviet architectural policy of the time. Black-and-white photo of the Chayka Monument The 1955 Decree Against “Architectural Excesses” To understand Khrushchev’s reaction, one must go back to 4 November 1955, when the Soviet government issued Resolution No. 1871, officially titled “On the Elimination of Excesses in Design and Construction” (Об устранении излишеств в проектировании и строительстве). The decree was officially issued and signed by Nikita S. Khrushchev, Secretary of the Central Committee of the CPSU, and Nikolai A. Bulganin, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR. This landmark document marked a sharp break with Stalin-era monumental architecture. It harshly criticized prevailing architectural practices and accused designers of wastefulness and obsession with decorative forms at the expense of function and economy. The key principles of the decree were: Condemnation of “architectural excesses” : The use of expensive materials, decorative colonnades, towers, porticos, and ornamentation without functional purpose was explicitly criticized. Rejection of individual projects : Architects were instructed to abandon unique, expressive designs in favor of standardized, mass-producible solutions. Cost reduction : The primary goal was to lower construction costs per square meter and rapidly provide housing for millions of people living in communal apartments and basements. Seen through this lens, the Chayka monument clearly contradicted the core principles of Resolution No. 1871. It was expressive, sculptural, symbolic—and entirely non-utilitarian. The Chayka today Survival and Legacy Despite this ideological conflict, the monument was not demolished. Instead, it survived and eventually became one of the most recognizable Soviet-era landmarks in Armenia. The monument was designed by Vanik Khachaturyan, with structural engineering by Lena Grigoryan. Khachaturyan later recalled how the idea was born: “In 1960, architect Spartak Knteghtsyan from the ‘Yerevanproject’ Institute received the commission to design the city entrance to Yerevan. He proposed a concrete arch and invited me to give my opinion. I told him that Tbilisi already had an entrance arch and that we shouldn’t repeat it. Spartak got irritated and said, ‘Then sit down and design something better yourself.’ I sat down and, in 15 minutes, drew the ‘Chayka’ and said, ‘If you like it, build it.’” At the time, there were concerns that the structure might collapse. In reality, it was cleverly engineered: one side is short and massive, while the other is long and slender, creating a balanced and stable composition. As Vanik Khachaturyan described it, the structure resembles a perfectly balanced scale. Name and Present State The monument’s name raises an intriguing linguistic question. The inscription reads «Չայկա» ( Chayka )—the Russian word for seagull —rendered in Armenian script, despite the existence of the Armenian word «Ճայ» (Chay). Why a Russian term was chosen, especially when written using Armenian letters, remains unclear. Today, the Chayka monument still stands. Unfortunately, chaotic and poorly planned construction around it has significantly diminished what was once a striking and open visual landmark. Even so, it remains a powerful reminder of a brief moment when artistic expression managed to outlive strict ideology. 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

During this urbex tour, I'm exploring a 14-story building, once a bustling sanatorium during Soviet times. Today, it stands abandoned, stripped of windows and doors. Only a handful of artworks adorn the walls, serving as poignant reminders of its former glory. < Back Exploring an abandoned sanatorium During this urbex tour, I'm exploring a 14-story building, once a bustling sanatorium during Soviet times. Today, it stands abandoned, stripped of windows and doors. Only a handful of artworks adorn the walls, serving as poignant reminders of its former glory. Located close to the capital Yerevan, in a scenic town famous for its mineral water, this place was once home to Armenia’s most prestigious sanatoriums. Visitors from across the Soviet Union came here to relax, recover, and improve their health. The sanatorium In the Soviet Union and post-Soviet countries, a sanatorium is a combined resort and medical facility offering short-term rest and medical services, akin to a spa resort. The history of these health resorts dates back to 1920s when the construction of the first sanatoriums started! Inside, one can come across this wonderful fresco, seemingly created by a professional artist, still resisting the destructive forces of water and time. Construction of the third sanatorium’s 14-story building began in 1975 and was completed nine years later. Architect : Martin Mikayelyan Engineer: Karlen Ghazaryan The accommodations were luxurious, featuring therapeutic baths section, numerous recreation rooms, a cinema, and a cozy two-story restaurant accessible via a covered ground passage. Nearby stands an unfinished funicular, originally intended to connect this building with the first sanatorium. 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