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This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best one-day hiking tours from Yerevan, Armenia's capital. These private, guided tours are designed for your convenience, typically beginning early in the morning at around 7:30 AM and concluding back in Yerevan by 6:00 PM. I invite you to explore the hiking destination that excites you most and book your adventure. To arrange a tour with Armenian Explorer, simply scroll to the bottom of the page to find my contact information. < Back Best One-Day Hiking Tours from Yerevan This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best one-day hiking tours from Yerevan, Armenia's capital. These private, guided tours are designed for your convenience, typically beginning early in the morning at around 7:30 AM and concluding back in Yerevan by 6:00 PM. I invite you to explore the hiking destination that excites you most and book your adventure. To arrange a tour with Armenian Explorer, simply scroll to the bottom of the page to find my contact information. I’m Suren, a professional hiking guide dedicated to helping travelers discover the hidden gems of Armenia. With years of experience exploring the Armenian highlands, I specialize in creating unforgettable trekking and camping experiences for adventurers of all levels. Whether you are looking for a private hiking tour or a well-coordinated group expedition, I personally lead every journey. For larger groups, I work with a dedicated team of professional guides, drivers, and cooks to ensure a seamless experience. In this article, I will share my knowledge and provide practical advice about the best hikes in Armenia and how to carefully plan your trip. Mount Azhdahak (3597m.) Reaching the highest peak of the Geghama Mountain Range is one of those adventures that stays with you long after you return home. The journey begins in Yerevan, and after an hour’s drive, we reach Geghard village, where a 14-kilometer off-road trail begins—a rocky path that in places requires slowing down, but is full of character. Along the way, you'll encounter flocks of sheep lazily crossing the slopes and eagles circling overhead. The classic hike starts at the foot of Mount Paytasar (3,000 m), with an elevation gain of 600 meters over 5.5 km one way. In cases where tourists are less prepared, I drive all the way to the foot of Mount Azhdahak, from where only a 50-minute hike is needed to reach the summit. The view from the summit of mount Azhdahak The reward for the climb is Azhdahak’s crown jewel: a crystal-clear crater lake perched at over 3,500 meters above sea level. In summer, its icy waters tempt the brave to take a plunge. From the edge of Azhdahak crater, dramatic, almost apocalyptic landscapes open up before you. This is the very place where, millions of years ago, an asteroid struck, leaving behind the distinctive crater you see today. On a clear day, Lake Sevan shimmers on the horizon, while Dragon Lake and Akna Lake complete the unforgettable panorama. I drove all the way to the foot of Mount Azhdahak, from where only a 50-minute hike is needed to reach the summit! Notice the layer of dust on the car after crossing the rugged terrain. The Geghama Mountains are rich in petroglyphs and vishapakars (dragon-stones), megalithic marvels that reflect Armenia’s prehistoric architecture, craftsmanship, and traditions. Dragon-stones, or vishaps, are enigmatic monoliths found near high-altitude springs and lakes, believed to be connected with ancient water worship. Dating back thousands of years, these monuments are among the oldest in Armenia, offering unique insights into the country's earliest human activity and symbolic world. The Geghama Mountains are home to thousands of petroglyphs — rock carvings that serve as Armenia’s earliest “written” monuments. They depict hunting scenes, daily life, wild and domestic animals, as well as celestial bodies like the Sun, Moon, and constellations. Some even show natural phenomena such as lightning. Among the most common figures is the bezoar goat, once widespread in Armenia’s highlands and key to early goat and sheep domestication. Particularly striking are the lifelike deer carvings, noted for their artistic quality, and depictions of now-extinct fauna such as the elk. These images are not only art but also valuable records of Armenia’s prehistoric environment and culture. For more information about the hike to mount Azhdahak check out this tour itinerary! Mount Aragats Mount Aragats is the highest mountain in Armenia, with four distinct summits named after their geographical positions: North, South, East, and West. The southern summit (3,888 m) is the most popular choice for hikers, mainly because it’s the easiest to reach In just 1 hour and 10 minutes from Yerevan, you can drive up to Lake Kari at 3,200 meters — the classic starting point for the climb. From here, it’s roughly 5.5 km to the top of the southern peak. The 4 summits of mount Aragats! It's up to you to decide which summit to conquer! While Lake Kari (3200m) is a convenient and budget-friendly starting point for all four summits, those aiming for the more challenging northern and eastern peaks often prefer to start from Gegharot Waterfall (3000m). This route shortens the hiking distance, but reaching the waterfall requires a high-clearance vehicle, unlike Lake Kari, which is accessible even by a regular sedan. We are crossing the last difficult part of Northern Aragats to reach the summit (4090m) If you’re fit and want to push your limits, it’s possible to conquer two summits in a single day — for example, the Southern (3888m) and Western (3995m) peaks. Another great option is to split the adventure over two days: start from Lake Kari, climb the Southern and Western summits, then spend the night camping inside Aragats’ massive crater. The next morning, continue with the Northern (4090m) and Eastern (3908m) peaks, and finally descend to Gegharot Waterfall (3000m), where an off-road vehicle will be waiting. For more information about the hike to mount Aragats (in this itinerary you will learn about the details on how to conquer all 4 summits) check out this tour itinerary! Mount Artanish (2460m.) Located on Artanish Peninsula on the eastern shore of lake Sevan mount Artanish is perfect for hiking during all 4 seasons of the year. It is the only peak from which the entire lake Sevan can be seen. With an altitude of 2460 meters the mountain offers a moderate hiking difficulty. You will need 5km to get to the summit from the starting point. For more details about this hike check out the itinerary. Mount Dimats (2360m) This destination is another must go hike in Armenia. Up to the summit one can get via off-road car but here is the case. During my tours I have started driving up to Armenia’s highest Shaghot waterfall and start the hike from there, instead of starting from the Teghut village, since I have noticed that the 8.5 km one way is too exhausting for hikers. An alternative can be driving up to Dimats mountain and conquering mount Sartsapat instead, rewarding ourselves both with an off-road adventure as well as a pleasant hike. For more information check out this itinerary. Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail Located just an hour’s drive from Yerevan, the Aparan Reservoir offers a memorable hike through dense forests and alpine meadows. Suitable in all seasons, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a pleasant outdoor stroll. The trail is divided into two loops: the Big Loop and the Small Loop, though you can also combine them for a longer hike. The Big Loop is slightly more challenging, with some ascents, while the Small Loop is easier. Both trails wind through beautiful pine forests and vibrant alpine meadows. As the name suggests, the trail is a loop-type path. Along the way, hikers can visit the 4th-century St. Poghos-Petros Basilica, which partially submerges under water for 3–4 months each year, adding a unique historical element to the scenic journey. For more information check out the full itinerary! Smbataberd fortress and Tsaghats Kar monastic complex For hikers interested in historical sites, Smbataberd Fortress is a must-visit destination. Perched atop a mountain, the fortress offers breathtaking views of Yeghegis village and the surrounding mountains. Along the trail, you’ll also encounter the Tsaghats Kar Monastic Complex and its khachkars, before finishing in Yeghegis village near the 14th-century Zorats Church. Smbataberd is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Armenia, making it both a scenic and culturally rich highlight of the hike. The hike from Yeghegis Village to Smbataberd Fortress covers about 2.5 km and takes roughly one hour. From the fortress, the trail descends and then climbs again toward the Tsaghats Kar Monastic Complex, a 3.5 km stretch that takes approximately 1.5 hours. Tsaghats Kar consists of two groups of structures, separated by about 200 meters (656 feet), and the site leaves a lasting impression on visitors. The upper complex, in particular, carries a mysterious aura that captivates hikers. After exploring Tsaghats Kar, the trail continues back down toward Yeghegis Village, leading to Zorats Church, located about 3.5 km away. This marks the end of the route. For more information check out the full itinerary. Lastiver Trail Another wonderful hiking destination is the Lastiver caves and cascades, a perfect year-round adventure. The trail stretches 3.5 km one way along the forested banks of the Khachaghbyur River. Lastiver gained wider recognition in the early 2000s when ecotourism enthusiasts began organizing regular trips to this magical spot. It is home to a two-story cave perched on the steep slope of a canyon near the river’s majestic gorge. Surrounded by towering trees, rugged cliffs, and the soothing roar of the river, the area feels like stepping into a fairy tale. In the 1970s, Soviet-Armenian sculptor Benik Petrosyan decorated the cave walls with striking bas-reliefs, giving it an even more mysterious aura. Many visitors mistakenly believe the carvings date back to ancient times, which only deepens the sense of wonder. At the bottom of the gorge, a stunning waterfall completes the landscape, blending naturally into Lastiver’s rich ecosystem. The pristine environment makes it a beloved destination for ecotourists and nature lovers alike. For those seeking more from this hike, it is highly recommended to continue on to Okon Monastery, built in 1863. In front of the monastery stands a khachkar (cross-stone) dating back to the 12th–13th centuries. For more information check out the full itinerary. Note: All these private tours are customizable and can be combined with both sightseeing and camping tours. Contact Armenian Explorer via WhatsApp or Telegram at +374 55677868, and we will already customize the upcoming tour together. 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If you have taken the Tatev ropeway, you have undoubtedly seen a monastic complex nestled in the gorge, hidden deep in the woods. That's the mysterious Big Desert of Tatev, and a visit promises unforgettable memories! < Back The Big Desert of Tatev If you have taken the Tatev ropeway, you have undoubtedly seen a monastic complex nestled in the gorge, hidden deep in the woods. That's the mysterious Big Desert of Tatev, and a visit promises unforgettable memories! The Big Desert of Tatev is a 17th-century Armenian monastery located on the right bank of the river Vorotan, where it meets its tributary Tatev. It was built in the 1660s after an earthquake destroyed the nearby Harants (Fathers') Hermitage of Halidzor in 1658. The Great Hermitage of Tatev has the same layout as the older hermitage but is larger. It's a valuable example of medieval Armenian architecture with a unique design This is how you see the monastic complex when hiking down the gorge! The main part is surrounded by walls with towers, and there's an additional structure with a table-shaped plan on the southern side. It was of a military significance in the 18th century, during the liberation struggle organized by Davit Bek. In 1663, Saint Astvatsatsin, a 3-naved basilica church, was constructed in the south-western part of the desert using smoothly hewn basalt stone. It's an architectural marvel and when you step inside you can feel a rush of positive energy inside you! In 1743, Meliq Yeghan added a vaulted church-porch hall and a small chapel-mausoleum adjacent to the western part of the church. The dining hall in the southern part is a vaulted long structure with a kitchen, small windows, and stone tables. There are 64 vaulted cells for cenobites along the western and northern walls, some with two or three stories, doors, and windows. The desert once had gardens, threshing floors, a wine press, cellars, and a water mill (now broken). The climate here was suitable for viticulture. The Big Desert of Tatev served as a significant educational, religious, and cultural center. Around 700 monks dedicated themselves to spiritual service here, and the Catհolicos of All Armenians, Movses Khorenaci (Syuneci), received education in this spiritual and cultural hub. The Big Desert of Tatev played a vital role in the formation of manuscript centers, where many manuscripts were written in various monasteries and deserts. How to get to the Big Desert of Tatev? First of all, note that there is no road for cars to reach the location. You will need to take a short hike. You can hike to the Big Desert of Tatev by either starting from Tatev Monastery, descending all the way down towards the gorge and concluding your trip on Satan Bridge. Alternatively, you can park your car on Satan Bridge and commence your hike from that point. Inside the monastic complex, you may encounter a hermit who has been living there for several years and prefers not to be photographed, although he is very friendly! Gallery You May Also Like Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Guide in Armenia

I had been considering writing about this for a long time but hesitated, feeling a bit shy about attributing a rare phenomenon that had never been described before. However, with my last article in 2025, I decided to dedicate it to this subject. I will call it Suren Syndrome… let’s dive in. < Back From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome I had been considering writing about this for a long time but hesitated, feeling a bit shy about attributing a rare phenomenon that had never been described before. However, with my last article in 2025, I decided to dedicate it to this subject. I will call it Suren Syndrome… let’s dive in. Stendhal Syndrome You may have already heard of Stendhal Syndrome . If not, here’s a brief overview: Stendhal Syndrome, also called Florence Syndrome, is a psychosomatic condition involving rapid heartbeat, confusion, hallucinations, and even fainting, allegedly triggered when individuals are exposed to objects, artworks, or phenomena of exceptional beauty. The syndrome is named after the 19th-century French author Stendhal (pseudonym of Marie-Henri Beyle), who described his own experience with it during his 1817 visit to Florence, Italy, in his book Naples and Florence: A Journey from Milan to Reggio . When he visited the Basilica of Santa Croce, where Niccolò Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and Galileo Galilei are buried, he was overwhelmed with profound emotion. Stendhal wrote: "I was in a sort of ecstasy, from the idea of being in Florence, close to the great men whose tombs I had seen. Absorbed in the contemplation of sublime beauty… I reached the point where one encounters celestial sensations…" The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli (1480s) and The Birth of Astghik by Smbatyan (1982) Suren Syndrome While Stendhal Syndrome is mostly triggered by Renaissance artworks, Suren Syndrome occurs when encountering Soviet monumental art. In my case, the first time I experienced a similar mental and physical state was when I saw the mural shown below. My heart raced, it felt as if blood rushed straight to my brain, and I struggled to focus. There was a strange inner force pushing me to run from corner to corner, capturing as many photos as possible. I call this reaction Suren Syndrome . This is the fresco I first saw inside an abandoned chemical factory. That initial encounter threw me into a mental and physical state I later named Suren Syndrome. Later, I experienced it several more times. Another instance was when I first saw Garnik Smbatyan’s massive mosaic, The Birth of Astghik , or the “Sasuntsiner” fresco by Sargis Muradyan. The same overwhelming combination of awe and energy took over me, leaving me both mentally and physically exhilarated. A more recent account of Stendhal Syndrome occurred in 2018, when a visitor to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence suffered a heart attack while admiring Sandro Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. The mosaic I encountered in Armenia seems to evoke the same overwhelming effect, inspired by Botticelli’s masterpiece. Gallery You May Also Like Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Guide in Armenia

Explore Sevanavank Monastery, a top touristic destination in Armenia. Located on the Sevan Peninsula, this ancient monastery offers a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious heritage. Join my guided tours in Armenia and uncover its historical and cultural treasures. < Back Sevanavank Monastery Explore Sevanavank Monastery, a top touristic destination in Armenia. Located on the Sevan Peninsula, this ancient monastery offers a glimpse into Armenia's rich religious heritage. Join my guided tours in Armenia and uncover its historical and cultural treasures. Sevanavank Monastery, founded by Saint Gregory the Illuminator in 305, is a significant historical site located on the Sevan Peninsula, which was once an island. The area was fortified as early as the Bronze Age, serving as a strategic stronghold throughout history. By the 9th century, the monastery had become a key fortress for the Syunyats princes. Tourists are enjoying the view! The Church of St. Arakelots (Holy Apostles) and lake Sevan In 874, Princess Mariam, daughter of King Ashot Bagratuni and wife of Prince Vasak Gabur of Syunik, financed the construction of two churches on the peninsula: Surb Arakelots and Surb Astvatsatsin. The construction record from 874 is still visible on the eastern wall of Surb Arakelots Church. Both churches were restored in 1956-1957 and share a similar architectural style. Sevanavank was known for its strict monastic discipline, primarily housing monks from Etchmiadzin who had fallen out of favor. The Church of St. Arakelots (Holy Apostles) as seen from the trail leading up from the Sevan Writers' Rest House Notable visitors, including French explorer Jean-Marie Chopin, documented the rigorous lifestyle of the monks in the 19th century, noting their abstention from meat, wine, and other indulgences. Another explorer visited the monastery in 1850 and documented that manuscripts were still being copied by hand. A painting by Hovhannes Aivazovsky titled "Sevan Lake, Sunrise," 1869. In the painting, you can see Sevan Island and the Sevanavank Monastery Notice that the painting shows the Sevan Peninsula while it was still an island. Sevan Island became a peninsula because of Soviet-era water mismanagement. Full-scale water withdrawal started in 1937 with the launch of the Sevan–Hrazdan hydro-irrigation complex, boosting Armenia’s Soviet-era economy. By the end of that year, the lake had already dropped 10 meters. By the mid-20th century, the water level had fallen by approximately 20 meters, causing the island to become connected to the mainland and thus forming a peninsula. Gallery You May Also Like Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Guide in Armenia

Explore the captivating journey of Frederic Dubois de Montperreux (1798-1850), a Swiss-French archaeologist, traveler, and naturalist. Dubois's prolific sketches, including ancient geography, landscapes, architecture, archaeology, and geology, offer a vivid tapestry of Armenia's heritage. Today, his rare books, guarded treasures, are a testament to his extraordinary legacy. Dubois's enchanting descriptions of Yerevan, Etchmiadzin, and Geghard Monastery, with relics guarded by hermit monks, add a unique touch to the exploration of Armenia's rich history. < Back Frederic Dubois's Pioneering Expedition to Armenia Explore the captivating journey of Frederic Dubois de Montperreux (1798-1850), a Swiss-French archaeologist, traveler, and naturalist. Dubois's prolific sketches, including ancient geography, landscapes, architecture, archaeology, and geology, offer a vivid tapestry of Armenia's heritage. Today, his rare books, guarded treasures, are a testament to his extraordinary legacy. Dubois's enchanting descriptions of Yerevan, Etchmiadzin, and Geghard Monastery, with relics guarded by hermit monks, add a unique touch to the exploration of Armenia's rich history. Frederic Dubois de Montperreux (May 28, 1798 - May 7, 1850) was a Swiss of French origin, archaeologist, traveler, ethnographer, and naturalist. He is mainly known for the journey he undertook from 1831 to 1834 to the Crimea and the Caucasus. The results of his expedition were outlined in the six-volume work "Travels around the Caucasus among the Circassians and Abkhazians, in Colchis, Georgia, Armenia, and the Crimea," accompanied by an attached atlas containing numerous drawings, sketches, and diagrams made by the author during his research. Frederic Dubois de Montpereux Little is known about most of Dubois's life. However, during the three years he spent traveling the Caucasus—sometimes accused of being a spy—he was so prolific with his pencil and sketch pads that he returned to Europe with enough material for a travelogue that filled 11 volumes. This collection included five giant "atlases" full of illustrations. The atlas consists of five series of maps, plans, sketches, and tables arranged by topic: Series I - Ancient and modern geography, containing detailed maps of various parts of the Caucasus, including plans of attractions on 24 sheets depicting the ancient geography of the region. Series II - Landscapes and views, consisting of 75 drawings, published in 1843 in Paris. Series III - Architecture, illustrating the stylistic diversity of monuments in the Caucasus and Crimea. Series IV - Archaeology, containing detailed sketches of artifacts, tombs, bas-reliefs, and signatures. Series V - Geology, presenting maps, diagrams, sections, views, panoramas of the most geologically interesting places, and sketches of fossils. Dubois's books today are extremely rare and closely guarded. In 2017, a complete collection of his Caucasus travelogue sold at auction for more than $154,000. Three volumes of the atlases are reported to be held in Russian museums (one in the State Library of Russia, one in the Russian Geographical Society of St. Petersburg, and one in the Gelendzhik Historical-Geological Museum). Additionally, one volume, with a mysterious backstory, is held in a small library in Georgia’s breakaway region of Abkhazia. Returning to his travels in the Caucasus, in Eastern Armenia, he visited Artsakh, Yerevan, Etchmiadzin, and Nakhichevan, providing descriptions of the historical and architectural monuments preserved in these places. He made references to Etchmiadzin Cathedral, whose image was created in 1832. In the same year, he painted the landscape "Mount Ararat, view from Yerevan Fortress." The painting depicts the still-standing walls of the Yerevan fortress on the left side, the medieval Red Bridge of Yerevan in the lower right corner (rebuilt after the 1679 earthquake and currently being rebuilt), and the famous Dalma gardens of Yerevan in the center. Dubois spoke admirably about these gardens in his book, noting that each plot of land there has its own wine cellar where wine is prepared and stored. Geghard Monastery in Armenia. Dubois described the site as "one of the wildest valleys of greater Armenia," mentioning that the solitary monastery "appealed to hermit monks who have renounced the world." Dubois claimed that the monks at the site guarded both the tip of the Roman spear used to prod Jesus and a piece of Noah’s ark. A bridge over Debed river in Armenia, Lori region. He noted, "Before, there was a village set up there by the king so travelers could find food. Today, nothing stands—no village, no caravanserai. The bridge alone remains. Its length is 400 feet, its width 14 feet." Etchmiadzin Cathedral in Armenia is considered by many historians to be the oldest cathedral in the world. Armenian church in Akhaltsikhe! A closer look reveals inscriptions in Armenian. “I conclude the series of Armenian-style monuments with the Armenian church, which was built at the top of the city of Akhaltsikhe, on the point that was most strongly defended by the Turks during the capture of the city in 1828," Dubois wrote. "The holes that can be seen in the cornices and walls were made by cannonballs during the siege of the city.” Dubois returned to Europe in 1834. After the publication of his books on the region, he received a gold medal from the French Geographical Society and the Order of St. Stanislaus. He was also gifted a large sum of money from the Russian tsar. His final years were dedicated to archaeological research in Europe, and he passed away in 1850 at the age of 51. Gallery You May Also Like Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Guide in Armenia

Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri, is known not only for its distinctive pre-Soviet and Soviet architecture but also for its long-standing blacksmithing traditions. It’s no surprise that in 2023 this tradition was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Today, though, we’re looking at another part of Gyumri’s cultural landscape — Soviet-era monumental art, specifically a 1977 bas-relief created by sculptor Ferdinand Araqelyan. < Back A Remarkable Soviet-era Bas-Relief in Gyumri Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri, is known not only for its distinctive pre-Soviet and Soviet architecture but also for its long-standing blacksmithing traditions. It’s no surprise that in 2023 this tradition was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Today, though, we’re looking at another part of Gyumri’s cultural landscape — Soviet-era monumental art, specifically a 1977 bas-relief created by sculptor Ferdinand Araqelyan. As you walk up Garegin Nzhdeh Street, just before reaching Charles Aznavour Square, you’ll notice a supermarket called Baseni Govq on your left. The façade of the supermarket is adorned with a striking bas-relief titled “Hospitality.” The "Hospitality" bas-relief in Soviet times Ferdinand Araqelyan completed the bas-relief in 1977, and a year later the new Shirak Hotel opened its doors behind it. The hotel’s architect was Grigor Ghazazyan, who served as the chief architect of Leninakan (the former name of Gyumri) from 1961 to 1962. The “Hospitality” bas-relief before the reconstruction During Soviet times, the artwork decorated the façade of the Shirak Hotel, which was destroyed in the 1988 earthquake. Miraculously, the bas-relief survived. In November 2017, the Armenian government approved the allocation of the former hotel site to Baseni Govq LLC. The investor committed to a 1-billion-dram redevelopment project, promising to build a four-story service center and create 100–150 new jobs. A key condition was the preservation of Araqelyan’s bas-relief “Hospitality.” To ensure the project wouldn’t stall, the government set a three-year deadline for the reconstruction. The “Hospitality” bas-relief in the course of reconstruction The Saribekyan brothers carried out the restoration with exceptional care, meticulously repairing damaged sections and cleaning the darkened areas of red tuff. Today, the bas-relief is fully restored and beautifully preserved — a genuine Soviet-era gem that draws curious travelers from around the world. 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

A rare Soviet-era soldier’s album discovered during an urbex tour in Armenia. Photographs and hand-drawn illustrations offer an intimate look into military service, everyday life, and personal memories of a Soviet-Armenian conscript from 1981 to 1983. This is raw, uncensored micro-history—not propaganda, not official archives, but real soldier life seen from the inside. < Back A Soviet-Armenian Soldier’s Album Found During an Urbex Tour A rare Soviet-era soldier’s album discovered during an urbex tour in Armenia. Photographs and hand-drawn illustrations offer an intimate look into military service, everyday life, and personal memories of a Soviet-Armenian conscript from 1981 to 1983. This is raw, uncensored micro-history—not propaganda, not official archives, but real soldier life seen from the inside. During my urbex tours, I carefully study historic photos and documents left behind by former workers—whether in culture houses or factories. During one of these explorations, I came across a fascinating album that once belonged to a Soviet-Armenian soldier. They were often called demobilization albums (дембельский альбом). Soldiers created them during the last months of service or right after discharge. I carefully photographed every page to preserve it for future generations and to show how such personal albums once looked. On the cover, there was a photo with the inscription:«Присягу принял на Зееловских высотах, 3 июня 1979 г.» “Took the military oath at the Seelow Heights, June 3, 1979.” Each album was handmade and deeply personal. It contained photographs from his military service along with several hand-painted illustrations. Photography was limited and controlled. Printing photos wasn’t easy. Drawing filled the gaps—and also showed skill, patience, and personality. On the title page, another note read:«Память о службе. Ереван–Вапуики, 1981–1983, осень.» “In memory of service. Yerevan–Vapuiki, 1981–1983, autumn.” Further inside, I found the following inscription:«730 дней в едином строю.» “730 days in one formation.” Apart from personal photos of the album’s owner, it also included images of his fellow soldiers, as well as hand-painted drawings of girls, a soldier hugging and kissing a girl, fighter jets, and a well-known cartoon character—the Wolf from “Ну, погоди!” ( “Just You Wait!” ), the famous Soviet animated series produced by Soyuzmultfilm. On the last page, I saw a photo of Soviet Minister of Defence Dmitry Ustinov and read the following inscription: «ВВ МВД СССР». Internal Troops of the USSR Ministry of Internal Affairs. On the left page, an intriguing painting caught my eye: a train entering a military boot and bursting out of it, tearing the boot apart. 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

Join my guided urban explorer tours to uncover a fascinating time capsule from the Soviet era. Once a thriving sanatorium offering a distinctive combination of leisure and medical services, it now stands as a relic of history, preserving the essence of a bygone era. < Back Exploring an abandoned Soviet sanatorium Join my guided urban explorer tours to uncover a fascinating time capsule from the Soviet era. Once a thriving sanatorium offering a distinctive combination of leisure and medical services, it now stands as a relic of history, preserving the essence of a bygone era. Located just a short distance from Yerevan, this destination is renowned for its high-quality mineral water and was once home to Armenia's premier sanatoriums. During the Soviet era, it attracted visitors from across the Union, offering them a perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation. Perched high on the hill this sanatorium looks like a fortress from the gorge In the Soviet Union and post-Soviet countries, a sanatorium is a combined resort and medical facility offering short-term complex rest and medical services, similar to a spa resort. Projector room with its movie posters made a huge impression on me Following the Soviet Union's collapse, these sanatoriums were privatized. Properties without investments decayed, facing looting, while guarded ones became time capsules. This particular sanatorium, built for tire factory workers, remains frozen in time, a unique glimpse into 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

Explore Apaga Village's rich cultural heritage and its iconic House of Culture, featuring the monumental "Sasuntsiner" fresco by Sargis Muradyan. < Back This culture house in Apaga village features an amazing fresco Explore Apaga Village's rich cultural heritage and its iconic House of Culture, featuring the monumental "Sasuntsiner" fresco by Sargis Muradyan. Apaga Village, a settlement of Sassoon people established in 1919, became home to survivors from the Motkan province of Bitlis state in Western Armenia after the Armenian Genocide. The House of Culture of Apaga Village, erected in 1973, fostered vibrant cultural activities until the 1990s. Subsequently, due to neglect, the building suffered extensive damage to its roof, floor, and assets. From 2009 to 2019, partial restoration was undertaken using community budget funds to prevent further deterioration. The culture house of Apaga village In 1974, within the House of Culture, folk artist Sargis Muradyan created the monumental "Sasuntsiner" fresco (18 x 3.70 m), today recognized as a newly discovered monument of national significance. Muradyan conceived the sketch independently, while creating the fresco with assistance from Hrachya Hakobyan, Garnik Smbatyan, and R. Sargsyan. The fresco stands as a pinnacle of monumental painting in Soviet Armenia, defying prevailing norms by depicting heroes of the liberation struggle at a time when such portrayals were viewed as nationalist in the Soviet context. At its core, the expansive horizontal composition features an Armenian woman as the central figure in traditional dress, cradling a child. Alongside her are prominent symbols such as the parchment scroll of the epic poem "Sasna Tsrer," a khachkar, and a rifle resting on a cradle. The left segment vividly portrays Armenian fighters engaged in combat with Turks, prominently featuring the heroic figure of fedayi leader Andranik. On the right, the scene centers on the funeral pyre of Gevorg Chaush, with Muradyan himself depicted as a fidayi. A wide lens is needed to capture this image in a single shot Fedayis were irregular units formed by Armenian civilians who voluntarily left their families to establish self-defense groups in response to the mass murder and pillaging of Armenians by Turkish and Kurdish gangs during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 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 article navigates through the journey of the swastika, shedding light on its positive connotations while addressing its controversial modern associations. Explore the profound history of the swastika, a symbol embedded in diverse cultures, with a special focus on its significance in Armenia. Delve into the origins, meanings, and the oldest use of the swastika, also known as "arevakhach" in Armenian, symbolizing eternity. < Back The History of Swastika and its Role In Armenian Culture This article navigates through the journey of the swastika, shedding light on its positive connotations while addressing its controversial modern associations. Explore the profound history of the swastika, a symbol embedded in diverse cultures, with a special focus on its significance in Armenia. Delve into the origins, meanings, and the oldest use of the swastika, also known as "arevakhach" in Armenian, symbolizing eternity. The swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used by various cultures and religions for thousands of years. It is a cross-like shape with four arms that are bent at right angles, forming a loop or a spiral. The word swastika comes from the Sanskrit language, meaning “conducive to well-being” or “good fortune.” The swastika has different meanings and interpretations depending on the context and orientation. In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, the swastika represents the sun, prosperity, good luck, spiritual teachers, or the Buddha’s footsteps. It is often drawn on doors, thresholds, vehicles, scriptures, or temples as a sign of welcome or blessing. It is also used in ceremonies and festivals to mark auspicious occasions. In some Indo-European religions, such as Greek, Roman, Germanic, and Norse mythology, the swastika symbolizes lightning bolts or thunder gods. It is associated with power, strength, victory, or protection. It can also signify the four elements (earth, water, fire, air), the four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter), or the four directions (north, south, east, west). The swastika was also found in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Armenia, Mesopotamia, China, and India. The flag of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (1920–1945) features a swastika However, the swastika’s popularity declined in Europe after World War I when it was adopted by some far-right groups as a symbol of antisemitism and racial supremacy. The most notorious example was Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Party in Germany, who used the swastika as their emblem from 1920 to 1945. They claimed that the swastika represented their Aryan race and their ideology of Nazism. They also distorted its original meaning by associating it with violence and hatred. As a result of their atrocities during World War II and the Holocaust, many countries banned or restricted the use of the swastika in public places. Today, the swastika is still considered a hateful symbol by most people, especially those who suffered under Nazi oppression. Swastika sign on the fortress wall of medieval Armenian capital Ani However, the swastika is not universally rejected or condemned. In some Asian countries, such as Nepal, India, Thailand, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, China, and Japan, the swastika remains a sacred symbol of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It is still used for religious purposes, such as weddings, festivals, and pilgrimages. Swastika in Armenia - The Symbol of Eternity In Armenia, starting from ancient times, the swastika or arevakhach (from the words sun and cross) was a symbol of eternity, an ancient national symbol, and a symbol of the national identity of the Armenian people. The sign symbolizes good wishes, sun, life, fire, lightning, fertility, and childbirth, progress and development. Right and left rotations are assigned active and passive meanings and can be used to indicate these meanings. For example, a baby crib decorated with the symbol of eternity on the right rotation is intended for boys, and on the left rotation, for girls. One of the oldest known uses of the swastika can be traced in Armenia. A jar with the swastika sign was excavated in Shamkhor (historical Armenian land), dating back to 16th-15th centuries BC. The swastika sign can be traced among petroglyphs in Geghama mountains. Image Credits: Karen Tokhatyan In the modern-day territory of Armenia, the swastika sign can be traced among petroglyphs in the Geghama mountains, dating back to 8,000 – 5,000 BC. It represents one of the earliest uses of this mysterious symbol. In Armenia and its historical territories, the sign of eternity is found everywhere: on architectural pillars and elements, on the walls of churches, altars and frescoes, in miniatures, on khachkars, carpets, jewelry, clothes, household items and objects, in symbols of state, public, private and religious structures. Swastika sign can be also traced in Armenian rug weaving traditions! On this 17th century Armenian rug, in the center, we can see swastika sign. Today, for the Armenian people, the swastika still has a part especially in art and spiritual symbolic culture, the sign of eternity is an integral part and is universally distributed as a symbol of Armenian identity. A recent scandal involving the usage of the swastika: Kanye West, the rapper formerly known as Ye, was suspended from Twitter for violating the platform’s rules against incitement to violence. He posted an image of a swastika blended with a Star of David, a symbol of Judaism, on Thursday night (Dec 1, 2022). The tweet was quickly deleted. An image posted by Kanye West to Twitter before his suspension, December 1, 2022. The swastika’s history shows that it is not just one simple shape but a complex and diverse symbol that has been interpreted in different ways by different cultures and times. It reflects both positive and negative aspects of human civilization. Gallery You May Also Like Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Guide in Armenia

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

Learn about Soviet culture houses which were integral club institutions in former socialist countries. Discover their history and the significant role they played in education and propaganda. < Back About Soviet Culture Houses Learn about Soviet culture houses which were integral club institutions in former socialist countries. Discover their history and the significant role they played in education and propaganda. House of culture (Дом культуры) is a club institution, a center of cultural and educational work in (former) socialist countries, as well as in some Spanish- and French-speaking countries. The massive development of club institutions began in the USSR in November 1920, when the Glavpolitprosvet was formed by decree of the Council of People's Commissars in the system of the People's Commissariat of Education of the RSFSR. People's houses(Народные дома), built in the second half of the 1880s, were then transformed into workers' clubs and cultural centers. Culture house in Haytagh village Almost every village had its own culture house, and cities had many of them. In some cases, even factories and institutions had their culture houses. Each of these culture houses had a hall for theatrical performances and other ceremonies, equipped with a movie projector. Children could engage in various activities like dancing, chess, and arts. As a rule a public library was also housed in the Culture House. Above all they served a perfect place for spreading Soviet propaganda! Posters, special films and meetings served for that purpose! A well preserved (also renovated but they kept the original look) hall in a culture house While culture houses in the Soviet Union shared a similar architectural style, their interior design could vary depending on the region. Following a period of relaxed repression and censorship known as "The Khrushchev Thaw" (which spanned from the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s due to Nikita Khrushchev's policies of de-Stalinization and peaceful coexistence with other nations), artists began to decorate these culture houses with elements from their own national cultures. Although these expressions of national identity were seen as nationalistic and were not always welcomed by Moscow, they marked the resurgence of art and freedom of expression. A large fresco in a culture house! It depicts fedayi Andranik, his soldiers and dancing women! This could pretty much be classified as "nationalistic" in Soviet union and Kremlin could urge to destroy! In Armenia, artists drew on the nation's rich history, depicting heroic scenes from Armenian epic poems and history. Many of these artworks have survived to the present day. In 1988, there were over 137,000 club establishments in the Soviet Union, and even after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, many of them continue to exist. Since many have not been renovated and still look as they did decades ago, a visit to these culture houses promises to be a historical tour back to the old Soviet times. Even nowadays you can come across to old projectors in culture houses! They stopped working long time ago but add a special charm to the places! On my website, you can explore the "Urbex Armenia" section to learn about many culture houses waiting for your discovery! Gallery You May Also Like Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Guide in Armenia