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In 1981, oceanographer Stanislav Kurilov defied the Soviet Union's iron grip, escaping through a daring leap off a cruise ship into the Philippine Sea. His incredible journey, marked by challenges and resilience, symbolizes the relentless pursuit of freedom, resonating as a beacon of hope against oppressive regimes, inspiring even today. < Back Jumped overboard from a cruise ship to escape from USSR In 1981, oceanographer Stanislav Kurilov defied the Soviet Union's iron grip, escaping through a daring leap off a cruise ship into the Philippine Sea. His incredible journey, marked by challenges and resilience, symbolizes the relentless pursuit of freedom, resonating as a beacon of hope against oppressive regimes, inspiring even today. The year is 1981. The Soviet Union's grip on its citizens is ironclad, escape seemingly impossible. While the West enjoyed relative freedom and prosperity, the countries behind the Iron Curtain experienced varying degrees of political repression, economic hardship, and limited personal liberties. Yet there were those who had a dream, an inner unstoppable force moved them to freedom and to their goals! One of them was the antagonist of this article oceanographer Stanislav Kurilov. Kurilov's early maritime ambitions were dashed by a vision problem, rendering him ineligible for naval careers. Following military service, he pursued oceanography while exploring scuba diving, yoga, and meditation. Employed at the Institute of Oceanology and the Marine Biology Institute, he encountered constraints on overseas expeditions due to multiple factors. Yoga and meditation helped Kurilov develop excellent physical and mental shape Possible reasons included Kurilov's exposure to chemical warfare during military service, his father's status as a World War II prisoner of war, or Kurilov's "foreign connection" through his sister's marriage to an Indian citizen who later immigrated to Canada. Consequently, his fieldwork remained confined to Soviet coastal waters, specifically the Black Sea and Sea of Japan, focusing on Soviet underwater research stations in the Black Sea. Resentment mounted when joint projects with Jacques-Yves Cousteau were thwarted by passport denials. Instead, the Soviets dispatched another group, "without diving experience, but with [exit] visas," prompting Cousteau to refuse collaboration. Alas, all these rejections only intensified his yearning for freedom. In December 1974, Kurilov boarded Soviet cruise liner “Sovetsky Soyuz”, leaving for a tour advertised as a "Cruise from the winter into the summer". That same Soviet cruise liner “Sovetsky Soyuz" Meticulously planning his escape, Kurilov studied the route of the cruise ship, which would pass through the Philippine Sea near Siargao Island. Armed with a snorkeling mask, fins, and an unwavering determination, he waited for the right moment. Under the cover of darkness, on December 13th, 1974, he took the plunge, leaping into the unforgiving ocean amidst stormy weather. Due to problems with navigation and currents, the planned eighteen kilometers turned into almost a hundred. For three agonizing days, Kurilov battled the waves, relying on his swimming skills and sheer willpower to stay afloat. Guided by the stars and the faint hope of reaching land, he defied hunger, exhaustion, and the ever-present fear of sharks. Miraculously, on the third day, a powerful wave propelled him onto the shores of Siargao Island, where he was found by local villagers. Kurilov's escape sparked international attention, becoming a symbol of defiance against Soviet oppression. The story of his incredible journey captured the imagination of the world, highlighting the lengths people would go to for freedom. In the USSR he was sentenced to 10 years in prison for treason. But after a period of scrutiny by Philippine authorities, he was ultimately granted asylum in Canada, where he started a new life filled with the freedom he so desperately craved. In Canada, Kurilov first worked as a laborer in a pizzeria, then worked for Canadian and American companies involved in marine research (searching for minerals in the Hawaiian Islands, working in the Arctic, oceanographic research in equatorial waters). Map of the location and route of the cruise liner In 1986, having married E. Gendeleva, he settled in Israel and became an employee of the Haifa Oceanographic Institute. In 1986, the Israeli magazine “22” published Kurilov’s story “Escape” in full. Excerpts from the story were published in 1991 in the Soviet-Russian magazine “Ogonyok”. Kurilov died on January 29, 1998 while diving on Lake Tiberias in Israel. While freeing the equipment installed at the bottom from fishing nets, Kurilov got entangled in the nets and ran out of air. He was buried in Jerusalem in a little-known cemetery of the German Templer community. Kurilov's story serves as a powerful reminder that the human spirit can overcome even the most formidable obstacles. His daring escape not only secured his own freedom but also became a beacon of hope for others yearning to break free from oppressive regimes. Even today, his tale continues to inspire and remind us that the pursuit of freedom is a journey worth taking, no matter the price. 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Shvanidzor feels like a place time forgot — quiet, sunburned, tucked into the reddish slopes of the Meghri region. The village sits about 11 km northeast of Meghri town and only a kilometer from the Arax River, resting at 600–700 meters above sea level. Once home to around a thousand people, today Shvanidzor has barely 280 residents. The local school has just 20 students. Life here runs slow and steady. But the village hides some serious architectural surprises. Today we will talk about the famous “Shvanidzor culture house”. < Back Inside One of the Most Impressive Culture Houses in Armenia Shvanidzor feels like a place time forgot — quiet, sunburned, tucked into the reddish slopes of the Meghri region. The village sits about 11 km northeast of Meghri town and only a kilometer from the Arax River, resting at 600–700 meters above sea level. Once home to around a thousand people, today Shvanidzor has barely 280 residents. The local school has just 20 students. Life here runs slow and steady. But the village hides some serious architectural surprises. Today we will talk about the famous “Shvanidzor culture house”. For such a small place, Shvanidzor has an unusual amount of heritage packed into its dusty streets. Medieval kahrezes — underground qanat-style water channels — still crisscross the area. Nearby you have centuries-old churches like Gyumerants and St. Stepanos (17th–19th centuries), and the older Berdikar Church dating back to the 12th–13th centuries. There’s even a 16th-century aqueduct and a 17th-century stone bridge quietly holding its ground. On the way, we stopped at a viewpoint where a beautiful view opens up over the Araks River, which forms the border between Armenia and Iran. And then there’s the culture house — the reason I came. In Armenian villages, culture houses are frozen Soviet memories — architectural relics that still reflect the style and spirit of that era. Shvanidzor’s, however, has a special charm. When we arrived, we found the door literally tied shut with twisted wires wrapped around the metal rings. But curiosity won, and I went inside. The interior of the Shvanidzor Culture House The moment I stepped into the main hall, I just stopped. The space hit me with its size, symmetry, and a strange sense of dignity. Even abandoned, the hall felt alive. I reacted like a starving kid at a table full of food — pulling out my camera, running from corner to corner, trying to catch every angle. You don’t often see culture halls like this anymore. There was one disappointment, though. I knew the projection room once had vintage Soviet posters — the kind that survive for decades in the dark. But they were gone. The projector room of the Shvanidzor Culture House Sadly, this is becoming a pattern. With tourism rising across Armenia, especially among visitors exploring Soviet heritage and urbex sites, old posters have started disappearing. Rumor has it they have high demand on the black market. As I’m writing this article at the end of 2025, the situation is shifting again. The village school is now being renovated, so classes are taking place right inside the culture house — on the stage. Kids are reciting their lessons where concerts and performances once happened. It’s oddly fitting: the building is stepping back into its original purpose, even if in an unexpected way. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

Inside an abandoned textile factory in Armenia, I stumbled upon something unexpected: rows of old computers, a large auditorium, and a Soviet mosaic. While I'm usually drawn to monumental Soviet art, this time the computers completely stole the show. They looked like nothing I'd ever seen before—and strangely, even a Google image search didn’t turn up anything similar. < Back The Forgotten Computers of a Soviet-Era Factory Inside an abandoned textile factory in Armenia, I stumbled upon something unexpected: rows of old computers, a large auditorium, and a Soviet mosaic. While I'm usually drawn to monumental Soviet art, this time the computers completely stole the show. They looked like nothing I'd ever seen before—and strangely, even a Google image search didn’t turn up anything similar. Curious, I dug deeper. I ran a DeepSearch with Grok and asked around in the Reddit community r/vintagecomputers. Here’s what I found out: What Were These Mysterious Computers? The machines are labeled "AM-5" and were likely produced by Gerber Technology , a U.S. company known for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) systems, especially for the garment industry . They were used from the late 1980s for tasks like pattern design , grading , and automated fabric cutting . Since the factory they were found in used to produce textiles, the match fits perfectly. Evidence points to the computers being manufactured in Germany , at Gerber's European branch— Gerber Technology GmbH in Ismaning, Germany. Why It Matters In the 1980s, companies like Gerber were revolutionizing how clothes were made. Their computers streamlined the process—digitally creating patterns, optimizing fabric usage, and even controlling cutting machines. These “AM-5” systems were likely part of that wave of innovation, quietly sitting in Armenia, forgotten by history. After stepping out of the computer room one can see a wonderful mosaic by Vanik Manukyan These machines, echoes of the past, are part of a larger narrative—where fashion and automation converged during the final years of the Soviet Union. Final Thoughts It’s frustrating how few people recognize the value of preserving relics like these. Old computers, military bunkers, carpet-weaving machines, thread spinners, watch-making tools—they’re all part of our industrial and cultural heritage. With the right approach, they could fuel niche tourism and spark real curiosity. But sadly, most are being looted or scrapped long before anyone realizes their worth. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

After exploring the Gagarin statue in Gagarin village and the local culture house (strangely inside I found no artworks), we delved into nearby abandoned factories. Experience our journey through photos, with a focus on Soviet warning posters that provide a captivating glimpse into the historical context of these industrial spaces. < Back Exploring the Gagarin Statue and Nearby Abandoned Factories After exploring the Gagarin statue in Gagarin village and the local culture house (strangely inside I found no artworks), we delved into nearby abandoned factories. Experience our journey through photos, with a focus on Soviet warning posters that provide a captivating glimpse into the historical context of these industrial spaces. Together with G. Mattu, we are on our way to Gagarin village! First, we visited the Gagarin statue in the center of the village and then moved on to explore nearby abandoned factories! Yuri Gagarin was a Soviet pilot and cosmonaut who, aboard the first successful crewed spaceflight, became the first human to journey into outer space. Traveling on Vostok 1, Gagarin completed one orbit of Earth on April 12, 1961, with his flight lasting 108 minutes. A monument in Gagarin Village dedicated to Yuri Gagarin and his historic first spaceflight Gagarin became a national hero in the Soviet Union, and his flight inspired kids so much that almost every kid started to dream of becoming a cosmonaut when growing up. It is no coincidence that in Armenia, there is a town named Gagarin (Armenian Գագարին, formerly Tsaghkunk), which has now become part of the city of Sevan. In 1961, this town became the first object in the USSR named in honor of the first cosmonaut. The residents of the village personally insisted on this decision, several months after Gagarin’s flight. A Soviet anti-alcohol poster! Behind the Gagarin statue, there is an abandoned railway station, but there was nothing interesting inside! We moved forward exploring and found ourselves inside a building with lots of warning posters! I love posters, but up to this point, I am still not sure what that factory was producing! It may be that it was even a cargo loading facility, but not sure! Anyways, below are lots of photos from our trip! I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

This article is 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 Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

When I visited the institute, I saw a room filled with crystal growth furnaces. To me, they looked more like forgotten artworks than old scientific machines. Rows of cylindrical chambers with heavy bolts and pipes stood in place, humming softly as water trickled through their cooling systems. This article aims to shed light on these marvelous machines which, thanks to their high quality, are still operating and producing crystals < Back Inside a Soviet-Era Crystal Growth Lab When I visited the institute, I saw a room filled with crystal growth furnaces. To me, they looked more like forgotten artworks than old scientific machines. Rows of cylindrical chambers with heavy bolts and pipes stood in place, humming softly as water trickled through their cooling systems. This article aims to shed light on these marvelous machines which, thanks to their high quality, are still operating and producing crystals An elderly scientist welcomed us and began to explain how the machines work. The terminology was too dense for me to follow in real time, but thankfully my friend recorded the lecture. Later, with some research, I managed to reconstruct what was happening here. These were Czochralski crystal growth machines, also called crystal pullers. Seeing them for the first time was something new for me. I am usually drawn to Soviet monumental art, but in that moment, these machines impressed me just as much. They looked like sculptures from an industrial age when science and technology had their own aesthetic power. The Czochralski Method The Czochralski method is the most widely used process for growing large single crystals. It was first developed in 1916 by Polish scientist Jan Czochralski, but it reached its peak during the Cold War, when both the Soviet Union and the West needed perfect crystals for semiconductors and lasers. Here’s how it works: Melting the material – A crucible, usually made of quartz, is filled with extremely pure raw material, like silicon or aluminum oxide, and heated until it melts. The heaters are often made of molybdenum or graphite, materials that can withstand enormous temperatures. Creating an inert atmosphere – The chamber is filled with an inert gas, most often argon, so that the molten material does not oxidize or react with air. Pulling the crystal – A small “seed crystal” is dipped into the molten material. The seed is then slowly pulled upward and rotated. As it rises, atoms from the melt attach themselves to the seed’s atomic lattice, gradually building a single crystal, called a boule. Shaping and control – By carefully controlling the pulling speed and rotation, the scientist can determine the crystal’s diameter and quality. The result is a large, perfect crystal that can later be sliced and polished for use in electronics, optics, or lasers. Other Techniques Not every furnace in the room was a vertical puller. Some appeared to be horizontal multi-zone tube furnaces, which are used in the Bridgman–Stockbarger method or in zone refining. In this approach, the material in a crucible is slowly moved through different heating zones inside a horizontal tube. The gradual temperature change allows crystals to form. This technique was widely used in Soviet laboratories during the 1960s–1970s to produce high-purity semiconductors like silicon and germanium. The control panels, with their teal-blue dials, gauges, and switches, gave the room an almost retro-futuristic look. Voltmeters and ammeters measured the power going to the heaters. Timers tracked the process. Rows of round indicator lights showed the status of different heating zones. The whole setup looked both old-fashioned and incredibly advanced for its time. The scientist even showed us pipe-shaped ruby crystals. Holding them felt like touching a piece of history. Ruby crystals were central to the invention of the laser. In 1964, Soviet physicists Aleksandr Prokhorov and Nikolay Basov shared the Nobel Prize in Physics with American Charles Townes for their theoretical work on masers and lasers — the principle of producing coherent light by stimulated emission. While the first working ruby laser was actually built in the United States by Theodore Maiman in 1960, it was Prokhorov and Basov who laid the theoretical foundation and developed many of the techniques that made such breakthroughs possible. The furnaces in this institute are not only for semiconductors like silicon wafers. They also produce a range of crystals used in optics and laser technology: Garnets (YAG, Y₃Al₅O₁₂): Widely used in solid-state lasers. Fluorides (CaF₂, LiF, BaF₂): Essential for UV lenses, infrared windows, and as laser host materials. Ruby (Al₂O₃ doped with chromium): The first solid-state laser crystal, still used for research and education. Sapphire (pure Al₂O₃): Valued for its hardness, optical clarity, and use as a substrate in electronics. Walking out of the lab, I felt as if I had stepped back in time. The machines, the smell of heated metal, the sound of water cooling pipes — everything reminded me of the Soviet tradition of merging science, industry, and vision. For me, someone more used to admiring monumental Soviet mosaics and sculptures, these crystal growth machines carried the same sense of power and beauty. They are not relics. They are still at work, producing crystals for optics and lasers, keeping alive a legacy of scientific craftsmanship that began decades ago and still shines today. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

Learn about me (I am chess Youtuber Suren Aghabekyan) before joining my guided hiking, trekking, camping and urbex tours. Get your guide, travel and discover Armenia! Call me Suren If you are planning to travel to Armenia and looking for a local guide, then my website is for you! Armenian Explorer offers a unique opportunity to directly connect with your guide, a feature often missing on traditional travel websites. Right from the beginning, you'll know who you'll be traveling with in Armenia, a detail appreciated by many travelers! With nearly a decade of experience, I've honed my flexibility to provide you with personalized hiking trails, captivating destinations, and even off-the-map places. Feel free to reach out with your questions or to discuss upcoming events. As Gagarin said before his historic flight, "poyekhali!" (off we go). Let your Armenian exploration be the most memorable one! Education I spent many years studying Judo! In the photo I am performing Uchi Mata Yerevan State University Master's Degree in comparative literature! In 2013 I deadlifted 110kg (242 lb 5 oz) with my little finger, setting a new world record and got into Guinness Book Of World Records I am also a chess Youtuber "Chess with Suren" The tours are conducted in a Mitsubishi Pajero 4

Explore the rich history of the Yerevan Clock Factory, founded in 1943. From stylish alarm clocks to commemorative timepieces, discover the legacy of innovation. < Back Exploring an abandoned clock factory Explore the rich history of the Yerevan Clock Factory, founded in 1943. From stylish alarm clocks to commemorative timepieces, discover the legacy of innovation. The Yerevan clock factory was founded in 1943. It had pressing, automatic galvanizing, mechanical, assembly and other workshops. It produced stylish alarm clocks and electronic mechanical watches. In 1945, 13.6 thousand watches were produced, in 1975 - 4 million 105 thousand watches. This building always captured my attention Its products were distributed in Soviet Armenia (approximately 4,200 addresses) and exported to 63 countries, including West Germany, England, France, Cuba, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and others. Since 1954, the factory showcased its products at union and international exhibitions and fairs like Zagreb, Leipzig, Warsaw, Tokyo, Montreal, and Cairo. Approximately 260 individuals working in the factory received medals from the USSR for their outstanding achievements. Avetisyan's watch case manufacturing machine earned a silver medal for high productivity (16 times more than the previous model) at the USSR Academy of Arts and Sciences. Paper clock face of "SEVANI" alarm clock! An important aspect of the factory was its ability to produce all necessary watch parts on-site, starting from clean raw materials. Aside from mass consumption alarm clocks and wall clocks, the factory crafted commemorative clocks for significant national events. Examples include apricot wood watches for Komitas's centenary, Armenian tuff watches for Lenin's centenary, featuring carvings of the Armenian alphabet and the Matenadaran building. Regrettably, a decision has been made to demolish the building from the 1930s-1940s. Despite left only with bare walls, its unique design still captures attention. Farewell to the Clock Factory, a historical maker of timepieces! I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

We explored the abandoned section of the Yerevan Metro, starting with calming down some aggressive dogs and sneaking through a narrow gap. It was an unforgettable and unusual experience for me—my first time ever inside a metro tunnel. As someone who has always loved traveling around Yerevan by metro, stepping into its unfinished depths felt surreal. The damp smell, eerie atmosphere, and the promise of capturing some truly unique photos made it all worthwhile. < Back Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro We explored the abandoned section of the Yerevan Metro, starting with calming down some aggressive dogs and sneaking through a narrow gap. It was an unforgettable and unusual experience for me—my first time ever inside a metro tunnel. As someone who has always loved traveling around Yerevan by metro, stepping into its unfinished depths felt surreal. The damp smell, eerie atmosphere, and the promise of capturing some truly unique photos made it all worthwhile. The Yerevan Metro (officially the Karen Demirchyan Yerevan Metro) is a vital part of the transportation system in Armenia’s capital city. Construction began in 1978, and the metro opened its doors in 1981, with subsequent expansions completed by 1996. The construction of the Yerevan Metro began in January 1978, and was carried out by the "Haytunelshin" department headed by Leonid Harutyunyan. The metro officially opened on March 7, 1981, and gradually expanded southward over the following years under the leadership and patronage of Karen Demirchyan. The last station, Charbakh, became operational in 1996. In honor of Karen Demirchyan, who tragically lost his life in the National Assembly terrorist attack on October 27, 1999, the metro was renamed after him later that year. Building through Yerevan’s underground, riddled with abundant subterranean water flows, posed immense challenges. This is one of my most favorite photos Today, the Yerevan Metro includes 10 stations, with three above-ground stations (Sasuntsi Davit, Gortsaranain, and Charbakh) and seven underground ones. Thanks to its high construction standards, the metro survived the devastating 1988 earthquake without significant damage and resumed operations the next day. However, the earthquake halted plans for further expansion, particularly the construction of stations in the Ajapnyak and Davtashen districts. Resources were redirected to the reconstruction of disaster-stricken areas, leaving these projects incomplete. Ore carts were still lying there, as if frozen in time Tunnels leading to the Ajapnyak Metro Station were excavated during the Soviet era, and the station’s entrance had been planned. However, the bridge across the Hrazdan Gorge, essential for extending the tracks, was never built due to the prohibitive costs. As a result, the Ajapnyak Metro project remains unfinished to this day. Urban Exploration of Ajapnyak Metro The abandoned Ajapnyak Metro Station has become a sought-after destination for urban explorers and diggers. Despite repeated promises from municipal authorities to resume construction, these plans remain unfulfilled, leaving the site in limbo. In recent years, a camera was installed at the station’s entrance, possibly as a deterrent, though its functionality is uncertain. During one of my visits, I entered through a narrow gap, first calming the stray dogs that have made the area their home. The interior revealed a haunting glimpse into an ambitious project left to time and neglect. This abandoned station, shrouded in mystery, continues to captivate explorers, offering a hidden perspective on Yerevan’s metro system. What lies within is a blend of unfinished engineering and the allure of the unknown. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

This abandoned Soviet Culture House in Armenia, with its crumbling facade, ghostly interiors and magnificent frescoes serves as a poignant reminder of a chapter in history that has shaped the collective memory of our nation. Today, this site is featured as a key destination in my urban explorer tours in Armenia. < Back Exploring an abandoned Soviet culture house This abandoned Soviet Culture House in Armenia, with its crumbling facade, ghostly interiors and magnificent frescoes serves as a poignant reminder of a chapter in history that has shaped the collective memory of our nation. Today, this site is featured as a key destination in my urban explorer tours in Armenia. Finally, we are on the way! Despite the rainy day, we proceeded to explore this culture house from Soviet times. It has some of the best frescoes one can see in Armenia. Inside, you can find amazing frescoes by the renowned Armenian artist Tigran Tokmajyan! I am lighting the fresco of Tigran Tokmajyan to capture a higher quality photo It depicts various historical periods of the Armenian nation — from Hayk Nahapet's liberating war against Bel's army to the invention of the Armenian alphabet and the heroic battles of Armenian fedayis in the beginning of the 20th century! https://video.wixstatic.com/video/103e0a_c67be7b06cd9441492f4b50843eee677/1080p/mp4/file.mp4 To the culture house Photographers, urban explorers, and history enthusiasts can definitely appreciate this place! Join my guided tours to explore the "abandoned side" of Armenia! Hope that efforts to preserve the legacy of this culture house will gain momentum some day! I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

This comprehensive Mount Aragats hiking tour itinerary invites you to climb all 4 summits of Armenia's highest mountain, Mount Aragats. We offer flexible options, allowing you to choose which Aragats summit to climb based on your physical fitness and desired challenge. Within this Armenia trekking guide, you'll find detailed technical information and trekking details for each of the four Aragats peaks presented separately. For the ultimate Aragats climbing adventure, including a 2 day hike with camping at night to conquer all four peaks of Mount Aragats at once, I am are ready to create a customized itinerary for you! < Back One-Day Hike from Yerevan: Climb Mount Aragats with a Guide This comprehensive Mount Aragats hiking tour itinerary invites you to climb all 4 summits of Armenia's highest mountain, Mount Aragats. We offer flexible options, allowing you to choose which Aragats summit to climb based on your physical fitness and desired challenge. Within this Armenia trekking guide, you'll find detailed technical information and trekking details for each of the four Aragats peaks presented separately. For the ultimate Aragats climbing adventure, including a 2 day hike with camping at night to conquer all four peaks of Mount Aragats at once, I am are ready to create a customized itinerary for you! Mount Aragats is located in the central part of Armenia, northwest of Yerevan and north of the Ararat Plain at the border of Aragatsotn and Shirak regions! Rising proudly amidst the rugged landscapes of Armenia, Mount Aragats with its 4 summits stands as a majestic symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance. Its majestic snow-capped summits, vast alpine meadows, and striking volcanic landscapes make it an unforgettable trekking experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure activities in Armenia. Whether you seek rugged hiking trails, panoramic views, or the challenge of conquering its peaks, climbing Mount Aragats is a must for those exploring Armenia’s wild beauty. Aragats has four summits, which are named according to their relative geographic position: Northern—4,090 m (13,420 ft) Highest summit in Armenia Western—3,995 m (13,107 ft) Eastern—3,908 m (12,822 ft) Southern—3,888 m (12,756 ft) While all four summits of Mount Aragats are generally accessible for hikers and do not typically require advanced technical rock climbing skills, proper preparation is crucial. I highly recommend maintaining good physical condition, carrying sufficient water and food, and having professional hiking gear for Aragats to ensure a safe and enjoyable mountain climbing experience. Snapped this shot of my Mitsubishi Pajero in mid-May near Lake Kari, at around 3,200 meters elevation. Just look at the snow still clinging to the ground—Mother Nature clearly isn’t done with winter up here. Understanding the characteristics of each Aragats peak is key to planning your Armenian mountain adventure: Northern Summit — 4,090 m (13,420 ft): This is the highest summit in Armenia and presents the most challenging Aragats climb, requiring excellent physical fitness. Eastern Summit — 3,908 m (12,822 ft): Another demanding Aragats hiking trail, known for its rugged beauty. There are two usual starting points for the Northern and Eastern summits: Lake Kari (3,200 meters) and Gegharot Waterfall (3000 meters). From Lake Kari, the distance to the Northern summit is 14 km (one way), while from Gegharot Waterfall, it is only 6 km. However, the Gegharot route requires an off-road car, while for lake Kari you can even grab a taxi. Western Summit — 3,995 m (13,107 ft): A popular Aragats trekking route, offering a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Unlike the Southern summit, the slopes of the Western summit are steeper, and there are many loose stones. Southern Summit — 3,888 m (12,756 ft): Considered the most accessible Aragats peak, ideal for moderate Aragats hikes and those new to high-altitude trekking in Armenia. You can choose the classic route, which goes up toward the summit with a slight turn to the west, or hike along the ridge. The ridge is harder but gives amazing views of the crater and the North and East summits. It's best for experienced hikers. Northern Aragats as seen by me from the top of Southern Summit Northern Aragats — 4,090 m (13,420 ft) Treck details: Distance: 6km (One way) Altitude Gain: 1090 meters Duration: 4,5 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3,5 hours Start point: Gegharot Waterfall (3000m) End point: Gegharot Waterfall (3000m) Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Off-road car ----------------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Northern)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 110.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ------------ The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation Service of a guide Eastern Aragats as seen by me from the top of Southern Summit Eastern Aragats — 3,908 m (12,822 ft) Treck details: Distance: 4.5km (One way) Altitude Gain: 1200 meters Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3 hours Start point: 10 km up from Aragats village, towards Gegharot waterfall End point: 10 km up from Aragats village, towards Gegharot waterfall Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Off-road car ---------------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Eastern)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 110.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ------------- The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation Service of a guide ---------------- Western Aragats from the top of Southern Summit Western Aragats — 3,995 m (13,107 ft) Treck details: Distance: 6.5km (One way) Altitude Gain: 800 meters Duration: 3.5-4 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3 hours Start point: Stone Lake End point: Stone Lake Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Sedan ------------------ Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Western)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 90.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ---------------- The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation in air conditioned vehicle Service of a guide --------- The Price Does Not Include: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment) Southern Aragats as seen by me from the shore of lake Kari Southern Aragats — 3,888 m (12,756 ft) Treck details: Distance: 5.5km (One way) Altitude Gain: 688 meters Duration: 2.5-3 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 2 hours Start point: Stone Lake End point: Stone Lake Difficulty: Moderate Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Sedan ----------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Southern)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 90.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! --------- The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation in air conditioned vehicle Service of a guide --------- The Price Does Not Include: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment) ----------- List of things you should consider taking for climbing mount Aragats: 1. Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry all your essentials. 2. Water: S ufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the hike. At least 1.5 liters… 3. Food: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up. 4. Clothing: Dress in layers, including a waterproof/windproof outer layer, and choose moisture-wicking materials. Having extra socks and boots always welcomed… 5. Hiking Shoes/Boots : Wear comfortable and supportive footwear suitable for the terrain. 6. First Aid Kit: I have mine but in case you are using specific medicaments take with you! 7. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. 9. Headlamp/Flashlight: Essential for hiking in low light conditions or during overnight trips. 10. Whistle: A loud whistle for attracting attention in case of emergencies. 11. Trekking Poles: Optional but helpful for stability, especially on challenging terrains. 12. Rain Gear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during rain showers. 13. Trash Bag: Carry a small bag to pack out your trash and keep the trail clean. Remember, this list may vary depending on the length and difficulty of the hike, weather conditions, and personal needs. But this were the basic things I decided to emphasize! 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