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In this article, I briefly cover the history of Futuro houses, their appearance in the Soviet Union, and a unique replica that has survived to this day—resembling an alien spaceship and inviting travelers to stop, step inside, and take a short break after a long drive. < Back A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House In this article, I briefly cover the history of Futuro houses, their appearance in the Soviet Union, and a unique replica that has survived to this day—resembling an alien spaceship and inviting travelers to stop, step inside, and take a short break after a long drive. It all began in 1965, when Finnish architect Matti Suuronen received a commission from a former classmate. The brief was purely practical: design a ski lodge that could be quickly heated, easily assembled, and built in harsh, remote terrain. Suuronen’s solution was radically unconventional. Instead of tents or wooden cabins, he proposed a compact, modular dwelling shaped like a flying saucer. The structure featured a metal frame wrapped in a durable plastic shell. Already experienced with fiberglass-reinforced polyester, Suuronen chose this material for its light weight, strength, and insulation properties. The house consisted of 16 prefabricated panels and 16 windows and could be assembled in just a few days. It rested on four supports, while its sloped roof allowed snow to slide off naturally. The Futuro measured 8 meters in diameter and 4 meters in height, offered about 25 m² of interior space, and weighed under three tons. According to Suuronen, it could comfortably accommodate up to eight people. It soon became clear that this design had potential far beyond ski resorts—marking the beginning of the “earthly” life of this architectural UFO. Fewer than 100 Futuro houses were manufactured in total, and it is estimated that approximately 60 to 70 of them survive today in various locations worldwide. The first production model appeared in 1968 and was purchased by Finnish actor Matti Kuusla, who installed it on a lakeshore outside the city. Despite its bold vision, the project proved a commercial failure. Rising plastic prices after the 1973 oil crisis, public resistance to its futuristic appearance, and strict building regulations all worked against mass adoption. The USSR later considered acquiring Futuro units for information kiosks and small pavilions ahead of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. These plans collapsed following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the resulting economic blockade by Europe. Ultimately, only three Futuro structures entered the USSR: The Tarelka Hotel in Dombay A little-known Futuro in Krasnodar The Tarelka Café in Gurzuf In Armenia As this list shows, no original Futuro officially arrived in Armenia. Still, local enthusiasts created their own interpretation of the “flying saucer.” At least one such structure survives today. Unlike the original Futuro, the Armenian version is made of tin rather than plastic. Information about it is scarce, and I am still gathering details from local residents. I did find an old Soviet magazine photograph showing several similar structures on the grounds of a kindergarten in Spitak. Whether the surviving example is one of those remains uncertain. Since the late 1990s, I remember this structure standing on the grounds of a roadside café. It served as a small stopover for drivers and travelers resting after Armenia’s long, winding mountain roads. The site remains open today—tables and chairs are still set inside. The ceiling of the building is decorated with scenes depicting spaceships and astronauts One detail stands out in particular: the door. It is cleverly engineered and opens with surprising smoothness. Inside, the ceiling is decorated with space-themed photographs—a subtle yet fitting nod to the building’s extraterrestrial appearance. During my urban explorer tours, we always stop here. For those unfamiliar with the history of Futuro houses, it is simply a building that resembles an alien spacecraft. Only those who know architectural history—especially the story of Futuro houses—recognize connection. 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

In this article, you’ll discover a little-known Soviet-era amphitheater, now abandoned. Explore how these spaces evolved over centuries while preserving classical architectural traditions. A hidden gem for urban explorers and enthusiasts of forgotten Soviet-era architecture, this site offers a rare glimpse into Armenia’s theatrical past. < Back An abandoned amphitheater in Armenia In this article, you’ll discover a little-known Soviet-era amphitheater, now abandoned. Explore how these spaces evolved over centuries while preserving classical architectural traditions. A hidden gem for urban explorers and enthusiasts of forgotten Soviet-era architecture, this site offers a rare glimpse into Armenia’s theatrical past. An amphitheatre (American English: amphitheater) is an open-air venue designed for entertainment, performances, and sports. The term comes from the ancient Greek ἀμφιθέατρον (amphitheatron), formed from ἀμφί (“around” or “on both sides”) and θέατρον (“place for viewing”). Armenian theatre is among the oldest in the world. Along with the Greek tradition, it belonged to the European theatrical type and emerged in the 1st millennium BC. Even then, it was divided into familiar genres such as tragedy and comedy. According to Plutarch, in 69 BC King Tigran II the Great built a Hellenistic-style amphitheatre in Tigranakert, the capital of Greater Armenia. Historian Gevorg Goyan believed this structure was large, richly decorated, and comparable to the grandest Greek amphitheatres of the period. Later, during the reign of Artavazd (55–34 BC), the son of Tigran the Great, the Artashat Theatre was established in Armenia’s northern capital. Artavazd himself earned a reputation as a playwright and director and once staged Euripides’ tragedy The Bacchae . After Christianity became the state religion in 301 AD, the Armenian Church began opposing theatrical arts. One example is the sermons of Catholicos Hovhannes Mandakuni (5th century), who sharply criticized theatrical performances and the gusans. This complicated the development of theatre but did not bring it to an end. The earliest amphitheatres of antiquity were built entirely without roofs. Over the centuries, as architectural needs and acoustic expectations changed—especially for concerts and modern performances—open-air theatres began to evolve. By the 20th century many venues adopted permanent or semi-permanent roofs to provide weather protection and improve sound quality. Today, it’s common to see hybrid amphitheatres that combine classical open-air layouts with modern roofing systems. However, even in Soviet times architects often followed older traditions. Many cinemas and amphitheatres were built completely open to the sky, preserving the historical aesthetic. One famous example is the open-air hall of Moscow Cinema in Yerevan, constructed between 1964 and 1966 by architects Spartak Kndeghtsyan and Telman Gevorgyan — a topic I’ll cover in a separate article. For now, here’s another example: a little-known abandoned open-air amphitheatre that almost no one today is aware of. Information about it is practically nonexistent online. We discovered it by accident during one of our urban exploration trips — a genuinely pleasant surprise. Once I gather more historical data, I’ll share it. Until then, let the photos speak for this once-glorious place. 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Explore the abandoned Culture Palace of Jermuk, an architectural masterpiece by Martin Mikayelyan. A haven for urbexers and urban photographers, this ghostly building with its rich history, intricate sculptures, and vast interiors offers a glimpse into a bygone era. < Back The Abandoned Culture Palace of Jermuk City Explore the abandoned Culture Palace of Jermuk, an architectural masterpiece by Martin Mikayelyan. A haven for urbexers and urban photographers, this ghostly building with its rich history, intricate sculptures, and vast interiors offers a glimpse into a bygone era. In the Ajapniak district of Jermuk, home to the city's spas and hotels, the construction of the Palace of Culture began in 1969, designed by the renowned architect Martin Mikayelyan. The original plan included an 800-seat hall, a swimming pool, a club-library complex, and a cafe. Locally, it became known as "КурЗал" ("KURZAL")б an abbreviation of the Russian name "Курортный Зал" (Resort Hall). A few more steps and we will enter the abandoned culture palace Boasting rich interiors, sculptures, and decorative pools, the building took 17 years to complete, finally being finished in 1986. This facility, designed as a cohesive unit, includes an 800-seat theater, a swimming pool, a club-library complex, and a cafe. It aims to create not only a complete inner world around a giant winter garden but also a different kind of an atmosphere this time on the roof of the building, which is heated in winter. The roof features a large yacht deck with an outdoor swimming pool, sun decks, a cafe, and an outdoor movie theater. Inside the culture palace On the second floor, clay busts of six renowned Armenians were displayed, but sadly, these were destroyed by vandals approximately three years ago. Today, this vast building with its ghostly interior stands as a reminder of the glorious past and the remarkable architectural style of Martin Mikayelyan. 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

During one of my explorations, I came across a hauntingly beautiful graveyard of firefighting trucks tucked away in Armenia. These machines, which once roared to life to battle hundreds of fires and save countless lives, now stand silent and weathered—like retired heroes left to rest. Through my photos, I aimed to immortalize their legacy and pay tribute to these rugged Soviet-era workhorses. < Back Cemetery of Firefighting Trucks During one of my explorations, I came across a hauntingly beautiful graveyard of firefighting trucks tucked away in Armenia. These machines, which once roared to life to battle hundreds of fires and save countless lives, now stand silent and weathered—like retired heroes left to rest. Through my photos, I aimed to immortalize their legacy and pay tribute to these rugged Soviet-era workhorses. The red fire engines you see are Soviet ZIL-130 AC-40 fire trucks . The ZIL-130 is a Soviet truck made in Moscow by the ZIL factory. The first prototype appeared in 1956, and production began in 1962. Full-scale mass production started in 1964. By 1994, over 3.3 million ZIL-130 trucks had been built, making it one of the most common cargo trucks in the USSR and Russia, widely used in firefighting, military, and industrial roles. Key Features of the ZIL-130 AC-40: Distinctive front grille and rounded fenders Classic red-and-white dual-tone paint scheme Mounted ladders and hose racks on the roof Cyrillic unit numbers and markings Heavy-duty off-road tires for rough terrain Now rusting in the tall grass, these trucks are more than scrap metal—they're relics of another era. The location is a hidden gem for anyone into urbex tourism , vintage Soviet vehicles , or retro-industrial photography . 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

This giant carpet factory, once bustling with thousands of workers and boasting a capacity to produce 1 million cubic meters of carpet annually, now stands desolate, serving as a solemn reminder of its once illustrious past. The machinery is now being sold for scrap, casting a shadow over its former glory. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Carpet Factory This giant carpet factory, once bustling with thousands of workers and boasting a capacity to produce 1 million cubic meters of carpet annually, now stands desolate, serving as a solemn reminder of its once illustrious past. The machinery is now being sold for scrap, casting a shadow over its former glory. Upon entering the territory of the factory, we saw workers busily engaged outside, transporting Soviet-era buses scattered around the premises to sell for scrap. Two weeks prior, many weaving machines had already been sold for scrap, but fortunately, there was still much to discover within. Volodya, who had worked here since 1972, guided us through the facility. The facade of the admin building of the abandoned carpet factory Established in 1964, this mammoth carpet factory specialized in producing a variety of carpets, including double-walled, jacquard, and five-color varieties, using raw materials such as New Zealand wool, domestic capron, and copper-ammonia fiber. Volodya worked here from 1972... he saw the rise and fall of this industrial giant In 1975, the factory produced an impressive one million cubic meters of carpets, garnering global acclaim for their elegant national decoration and modern design. These carpets were showcased at prestigious international exhibitions in Montreal, Sao Paulo, Beirut, Baghdad, Prague, Plovdiv, Leipzig, and at the Exhibition of Achievements of the People's Economy of the USSR. Notably, the Erebuni-2750 and Gugark carpets received state commendation. The factory's products were distributed widely across the Soviet Union and abroad. 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Explore Gyumri Railway Station, Armenia's oldest rail station, known for its Soviet modernist architecture. Established in 1897, it connects Gyumri to major destinations. The station features unique design elements and serves as a historical landmark, reflecting the city's vibrant cultural heritage. < Back Gyumri Railway Station: A Bright Example of Soviet Modernist Architecture Explore Gyumri Railway Station, Armenia's oldest rail station, known for its Soviet modernist architecture. Established in 1897, it connects Gyumri to major destinations. The station features unique design elements and serves as a historical landmark, reflecting the city's vibrant cultural heritage. Gyumri railway station is the oldest in Armenia and the main station of the city of Gyumri. Established in 1897, the first train arrived from Tbilisi to Alexandropol (now Gyumri) on February 7, 1899, at 12:00 PM, connecting the largest city of the Yerevan province to the broader world. On that day, the Tbilisi-Alexandropol railway was inaugurated. By July 21 of the same year, the railway extended to Kars, and on December 6, 1902, it reached Yerevan station. Constructing the railway to Alexandropol was an ambitious project, given the challenging terrain. Emperor Nicholas II allocated 320 million rubles for the railway's construction, a substantial sum at that time. The facade of the building is adorned with a large bas-relief titled Victory, created by sculptors Sargis Yukhanyan and Yerem Vardanyan, with architect Rafik Yeghoyan The railway spans over 250 kilometers and was constructed in a remarkably short period, with construction beginning in 1896 and concluding in 1899. The current station building was constructed between 1974 and 1979, designed by Rafik Yeghoyan. The large chandelier in the middle of the building was created by Hovhannes Madoyan. The building is one of the finest examples of Soviet modernism in the city, known for its unique architectural style. It serves as a welcoming landmark for visitors to this city of arts and crafts. The jewel of this railway station is the stained glass window adorning the dome Located on the site of an old building on the eastern side of the station square, the station can simultaneously service three passenger trains on high platforms, each 450 meters long, covered with a lightweight aluminum canopy. The building has a reinforced concrete frame, and the walls are made of Ani tuff masonry. The façade of the building is adorned with a large and impressive bas-relief. The central part features a prominent dome with an impressive colored stained glass design, 18 meters in diameter, supported by intersecting arches, while a 30-meter-high tower with a clock decorated with gilded zodiac signs rises on the left. Inside Gyumri Railway Station In Soviet times, the first floor housed the operations hall, passenger waiting areas, a buffet with ancillary rooms, customs services, administrative offices, and baggage facilities. The second floor included a 120-seat restaurant, a cinema hall, rest rooms with 50 beds, and a nursery with 25 beds. A huge fresco in the restaurant area is now covered with wooden boards. Today, the second floor mainly serves as administrative offices. The two stairways leading to the second floor are decorated with frescoes depicting themes of Gyumri's life and landscapes. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Once again, I find myself on an urbex mission. This article serves as a brief reflection on my exploration of the abandoned thermal power plant. It marked my inaugural experience inside such a structure, leaving me profoundly impressed. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Thermal Power Plant Once again, I find myself on an urbex mission. This article serves as a brief reflection on my exploration of the abandoned thermal power plant. It marked my inaugural experience inside such a structure, leaving me profoundly impressed. The Yerevan Thermal Power Plant (CHP) was commissioned in 1963 and initially operated on coal. Following subsequent modernizations, it transitioned to natural gas, rendering the old cooling towers obsolete. The cooling towers are creating an apocalyptic backdrop Currently, only four cooling towers remain, as two were dismantled between 2011 and 2012. Constructed from reinforced concrete with wooden decking, these cooling towers possess an epic aesthetic that appeals to urban photographers. A look at the sky while standing inside the cooling tower A rusty staircase provides access to the upper levels. As of spring 2024, the entrances to 3 cooling towers were locked, with only one tower accessible. Nearby structures, potentially control rooms, were not explored during this visit. Although there is security at the checkpoint, fortunately, there was no encounter with them on that particular day. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

In this article, I want to introduce another abandoned sanatorium that conceals beautiful ceramic bas-reliefs and a mesmerizing interior design. Out of caution, I won’t share exterior photos — not because I don’t have them, but because I don’t want to make the location too easy to find. In recent years, several heritage sites have suffered vandalism after being popularized online, often by attention-seeking TikTokers. A small request to fellow explorers: if you discover new places, share them responsibly. Publish photos in a way that doesn’t reveal exact locations, so that future urbexers can also experience these treasures. < Back A Soviet-era sanatorium with forgotten masterpieces In this article, I want to introduce another abandoned sanatorium that conceals beautiful ceramic bas-reliefs and a mesmerizing interior design. Out of caution, I won’t share exterior photos — not because I don’t have them, but because I don’t want to make the location too easy to find. In recent years, several heritage sites have suffered vandalism after being popularized online, often by attention-seeking TikTokers. A small request to fellow explorers: if you discover new places, share them responsibly. Publish photos in a way that doesn’t reveal exact locations, so that future urbexers can also experience these treasures. This sanatorium was specifically built for the workers of a cable-producing factory. Architecturally, it resembles a fortress, featuring bold geometric forms, tower-like structures, striking staircases, and an overall sense of solidity and permanence. The interior, however, is no less striking. Despite being out of use for decades, the building has remained in relatively good condition thanks to security on site. Inside, the ceilings, chandeliers, and ceramic bas-reliefs leave a lasting impression. Among these, two ceramic bas-reliefs stood out to me as true masterpieces This one depicts a plough pulled by oxen beneath a shining sun. Below, a bundle of wheat and a goat’s head appear — ancient symbols deeply rooted in Armenian tradition. The goat’s head, in particular, has been revered for centuries and is one of the most frequently encountered motifs in Armenian petroglyphs. In the right corner of the panel, ears of wheat and a jar add to the agricultural theme, while at the center a decorative ornament recalls the intricate patterns of Armenian stone carving. The other ceramic bas-relief also left a strong impression on me. At its center is the Armenian eternity symbol, while the sun shines at the top. In the upper left corner, a fisherman is casting his net, and in the upper right corner stands an Armenian church. The lower left panel depicts a ship, whereas the lower right panel shows a fish with a star above its head. For me, these bas-reliefs were more than mere decorations; they served as a reminder of how art, history, and daily life were once intertwined — even in a sanatorium originally built for factory workers. Very often I refrain from mentioning the architect’s name in my articles, since it makes the location too easy to identify. This time as well, I won’t publish it. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Since my earlier post about the abandoned plane located in Ashtarak generated significant interest, with many using my article as a guide to visit that location, here's another post dedicated to an abandoned plane. This time, we are heading to the shore of Tsovinar Lake to see an abandoned Tu-134 plane. < Back Another Abandoned Plane in Armenia Since my earlier post about the abandoned plane located in Ashtarak generated significant interest, with many using my article as a guide to visit that location, here's another post dedicated to an abandoned plane. This time, we are heading to the shore of Tsovinar Lake to see an abandoned Tu-134 plane. The Tu-134 was a Soviet passenger aircraft designed for short and medium-haul flights, developed in the early 1960s. These models were mass-produced from 1965 to 1984 at the Kharkov Aviation Production Association. This particular Tu-134 was produced on October 22, 1970, and entered service on December 4, 1970. The operator of Tu-134A USSR-65657 (0351103) was the Armenian Civil Aviation Administration. An aerial photo of Tu-134A plane On June 17, 1983, during a flight from Lviv to Yerevan, the plane was caught in a storm over the Gali region of Abkhazia. Although the plane landed safely, it exceeded the permissible overload limits (reaching up to +3.05G / -0.65G) and was subsequently taken out of service. The plane was decommissioned on July 10, 1984, due to this incident. When visiting this place to see the plane, I recommend also visiting the Tsovinar monument on the other side of the lake After its decommissioning, the aircraft was used as an object for simulating plane fires at Zvartnots Airport in Yerevan. In 1986, it was used for ground tests in connection with the fire of Tu-134AK USSR-65120. The remains of the aircraft were moved to the shore of the Hrazdan Reservoir sometime in 2023. Unfortunately, still I have no information about where it was located before that! You can find the plane's coordinates on my Telegram channel: https://t.me/armenianexplorer_ru/27 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next

Soviet-era mosaics in Armenia are remarkable relics that offer a vivid glimpse into the country’s artistic and cultural heritage. Created mostly in the second half of the mid-20th century, these intricate works of art reflect the social, political, and ideological narratives of the time. Today, they stand as vibrant testimonies to a complex past, blending traditional Armenian motifs with Soviet symbolism. < Back Soviet mosaics in Armenia Soviet-era mosaics in Armenia are remarkable relics that offer a vivid glimpse into the country’s artistic and cultural heritage. Created mostly in the second half of the mid-20th century, these intricate works of art reflect the social, political, and ideological narratives of the time. Today, they stand as vibrant testimonies to a complex past, blending traditional Armenian motifs with Soviet symbolism. Armenian Soviet mosaics are distinguished by their unique blend of local and Soviet styles. Artists employed traditional Armenian patterns and themes, often featuring folkloric elements and historical references. These were interwoven with Soviet iconography, including depictions of workers, farmers, scientists, and cosmonauts, symbolizing the progress and industrial prowess of the USSR. Here are several mosaics, the coordinates of which I won't disclose on purpose, to awaken the explorer inside you and encourage your own discovery! Here is a mosaic in an abandoned hotel in Armenia. The Birth of Astghik by Garnik Smbatyan (1982) Astghik was the goddess of water, love, and beauty in ancient Armenian mythology. The creation of these mosaics involved meticulous craftsmanship. Artists used a variety of materials, including colored glass, ceramic tiles, and stones. The vibrant colors and durability of these materials ensured that the mosaics would withstand the test of time, maintaining their splendor for decades. Karen Aghamyan's "Progress", 1983 Karen Aghamyan's "Progress" mosaic, created in 1983, is another uniquely futuristic piece that I adore. It features an astronaut in a spacesuit floating in space. The second figure resembles Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man, blending human anatomy with geometric perfection. The third part portrays a naked male figure with arms and wings outstretched, seemingly levitating in the air. A mosaic on the facade of fomer "Vaspurakan" restaurant The mosaics were often large-scale, covering the walls of public buildings, factories, and cultural institutions. Their grand size and prominent placement were intended to inspire and educate the public, serving as daily reminders of the Soviet ideals and the collective Armenian identity. Mosaics or frescoes with cosmic themes are my favorite, though! In this case, it is really difficult to take a proper photo since, when you stand in front of the building, the trees block the view. This mosaic artwork, titled "Flight," was created by Zohrap Mirzoyan in collaboration with Edvard Karsyan and Karapet Shekhian between 1984 and 1986 Along the Yerevan–Sevan highway stands a magnificent mosaic, but passengers speeding past rarely pay it any attention. The mosaic depicts the statue of David of Sassoun by Ervand Kochar and the Government Building designed by Alexander Tamanyan. Once, a metal key stood to the right of the mosaic, but it didn’t withstand the test of time. Today, the mosaic is in a depressing state and is gradually fading away. In modern days, with the rapidly growing urbex community and the influence of social networks, these mosaics are experiencing a resurgence, attracting photographers from around the world. Their vibrant colors and historical significance make them perfect subjects for capturing the interplay of art and history. Exploring these mosaics not only provides a visual feast but also connects us to the rich cultural and political tapestry of the past. 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 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 Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Armenia’s Abandoned Orbita Antenna Previous Next