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During one of my many visits to Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory—where I regularly guide visitors—I asked Henrik Sargsyan, the observatory’s oldest staff member, to show us the 53 cm Schmidt telescope. Sargsyan has worked at BAO since 1958. Warm, generous, and deeply devoted to science, he gladly agreed. Seeing yet another instrument that shaped modern astronomy was pure joy. < Back The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory During one of my many visits to Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory—where I regularly guide visitors—I asked Henrik Sargsyan, the observatory’s oldest staff member, to show us the 53 cm Schmidt telescope. Sargsyan has worked at BAO since 1958. Warm, generous, and deeply devoted to science, he gladly agreed. Seeing yet another instrument that shaped modern astronomy was pure joy. Byurakan is home to several major telescopes, including the ZTA-2.6 and the famous 1-meter Schmidt telescope , which I have already covered in detail. This time, the focus is on the 53 cm Schmidt telescope—smaller in size, but no less important in its scientific impact. The building that houses the 53 cm Schmidt telescope The telescope is installed at an altitude of 1,398 meters. It features a 53 cm (21-inch) correcting lens and a mirror of the same diameter. The focal length is 180 cm (71 inches), with a fast focal ratio of f/3.4. Its wide field of view—25 square degrees (5° × 5°)—made it especially suitable for survey work, with a plate scale of 114.6 arcseconds per millimeter. This instrument played a key role in studies of nearby galaxies, particularly in assessing the compactness of their nuclei. In the 1970s and 1980s, it was extensively used to search for flare stars in star clusters and stellar associations. Some of the earliest projects carried out with this telescope focused on detailed colorimetric observations of galaxies, including investigations of color distribution in nearby systems. Main Observing Programs Polarization of cometary nebula NGC 2261 Nuclei of nearby Sa and Sb galaxies Nuclei of nearby Sc galaxies Search for flare stars in Pleiades Search for flare stars in Orion Search for flare stars in NGC 7000 (Cygnus) Search for flare stars in Praesepe Search for flare stars in Taurus Dark Clouds Variability of Markarian galaxies Monitoring of extragalactic supernovae in certain areas Quietly working in the shadow of larger instruments, the 53 cm Schmidt telescope has left a solid scientific legacy—and remains an essential part of Byurakan’s astronomical history. 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

We received information from a local stalker that there is a fascinating fresco inside this abandoned glass factory! The time has come for exploration... < Back Exploring an Abandoned Glass Factory We received information from a local stalker that there is a fascinating fresco inside this abandoned glass factory! The time has come for exploration... There is no information about this glass factory on the internet! It is said that it ceased to operate after the collapse of the Soviet Union and was then relaunched somewhere in the 2000s, but for some reason, it stopped operating again. Today, this once-gigantic factory lies in ruins. On that day, we were lucky; there was no guard, while later we learned that several stalkers got caught while sneaking inside. The rooms were full of lamp glasses Okay, and here we are, entering the room full of lamp glasses, and on the wall, we see that long-desired fresco. It’s unknown who the author is; some say it was done by renowned Armenian artist Minas Avetisyan, who worked in that region, while others deny that idea. Anyway, it looked nice and mysterious. 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 WWII monuments, found throughout former Soviet republics, honor the immense sacrifice and heroism of soldiers during the Great Patriotic War. Often featuring dramatic sculptures of soldiers, tanks, and eternal flames, they symbolize the victory over Nazi Germany. These monuments serve as enduring tributes to Soviet resilience, commemorating the millions who fought and died for the Soviet Union and shaping the region's collective memory and post-war identity. In Armenia, every city and almost every village has a monument dedicated to WWII. Some have gained popularity among urban explorers and photographers over time. Here is one of them: < Back Urban Explorers Are Fascinated by This WWII Memorial Soviet WWII monuments, found throughout former Soviet republics, honor the immense sacrifice and heroism of soldiers during the Great Patriotic War. Often featuring dramatic sculptures of soldiers, tanks, and eternal flames, they symbolize the victory over Nazi Germany. These monuments serve as enduring tributes to Soviet resilience, commemorating the millions who fought and died for the Soviet Union and shaping the region's collective memory and post-war identity. In Armenia, every city and almost every village has a monument dedicated to WWII. Some have gained popularity among urban explorers and photographers over time. Here is one of them: This World War II monument was erected in 1973 through donations from the workers of the Kirovakan (now Vandzor) chemical factory. It was officially opened in 1975 on the 30th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. Main architect: Rafik Boshyan. Architects: Boris Kocharyan, and Ashot Kanayan. Sculptors: Zhirayr Ketikyan, Ara Sargsyan, Mehrab Mirzakhanyan (Master Mehrab) Having a person stand near the monument provides a valuable reference, allowing viewers to better appreciate its scale in photographs During my urban explorer tours in the Lori Region, we stop at this WWII monument, which has become a must-visit destination. Travelers consistently praise its significance and beauty, capturing memorable photos that make it a true highlight of the tour. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like 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

Just a short drive from the center of Yerevan, in what used to be the city’s outskirts in 1960s, stands something few would expect from a small mountainous country better known for ancient monasteries and volcanic peaks: a particle accelerator. Yes, Armenia has its own chapter in the history of high-energy physics. Welcome to the Yerevan Physics Institute Synchrotron, also known as YerPhI (ЕРФИ - Ереванский физический институт) or officially, the A.I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory—a quiet but powerful remnant of Soviet science. < Back Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Just a short drive from the center of Yerevan, in what used to be the city’s outskirts in 1960s, stands something few would expect from a small mountainous country better known for ancient monasteries and volcanic peaks: a particle accelerator. Yes, Armenia has its own chapter in the history of high-energy physics. Welcome to the Yerevan Physics Institute Synchrotron, also known as YerPhI (ЕРФИ - Ереванский физический институт) or officially, the A.I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory—a quiet but powerful remnant of Soviet science. How it started? Founded in 1943 as a branch of Yerevan State University by renowned physicists Abraham Alikhanov and Artem Alikhanyan, YerPhI quickly became a cornerstone of Armenia’s scientific ambition. Just two years later, high-altitude cosmic ray stations were built on the slopes of Mount Aragats — Nor Amberd at 2000m and Aragats Station at 3200m. A government delegation led by Brezhnev at the Armenian SSR pavilion at VDNKh, near the particle accelerator model By the 1960s, the dream went underground—literally. YerPhI’s team began construction on a major accelerator complex, designed for cutting-edge research in nuclear and high-energy physics. The symbol named "Arus" As you approach YerPhI, you’ll notice a striking sculpture on your right—a mysterious double-sided figure made of red tuff, standing three meters tall. This is Arus, also known as the "Armenian Sphinx." The name "Arus" is both a common Armenian woman’s name and an acronym for Armenian Accelerator (Армянский Ускоритель). It is said that the title "Armenian Sphinx" was coined by Artem Alikhanyan, founder of the Institute of Physics. Created by sculptor Arto Chakmakchyan , Arus is more than art—it’s a tribute to the dreams and determination behind Armenia’s scientific rise. And it guards the entrance to the underground halls where science once roared. Into the Depths: A Fortress of Concrete and Basalt Next, you’ll spot a large sign in Russian on top of the building to your left: “ЕрФИ.” In 1965, the LU-75 linear accelerator was completed. Two years later, it was joined by a 6 GeV synchrotron . Though its raw power can’t compete with modern giants like CERN, this facility was once among the most advanced in the USSR, delivering over 5,000 operational hours annually at its peak. The Arus synchrotron, with a diameter of approximately 70 meters and a circumference of about 220 meters, was designed to accelerate electrons to an energy of 6 GeV. The accelerator also produced a beam of linearly polarized photons in the 0.9–1.8 GeV range, enabling precise experiments in particle interactions. Key specifications include: Diameter: 70 m Commissioning Year: 1967 Electron Energy: Up to 6 GeV (designed), 4.15–4.5 GeV (operational) Photon Beam: 0.9–1.8 GeV (linearly polarized) Experimental Setup: Included magnetic spectrometers and neutron hodoscopes for detailed measurements Scientific Contributions Arus facilitated a range of groundbreaking experiments in particle physics. One significant study measured the asymmetry of deuteron photodisintegration at photon energies up to 1.8 GeV, using a 90° centre-of-mass angle. This experiment, conducted with a magnetic spectrometer for protons and a neutron hodoscope, challenged existing models of quark interactions by highlighting discrepancies in constituent quark counting rules. Other research explored: Hadronic properties of photons via π-meson photoproduction on nuclei. Structures of nucleon resonances through multi-polarization experiments. Characteristics of nuclear matter under high-energy conditions. A notable achievement was the 1970 discovery of X-ray transition radiation, a phenomenon now widely used in particle identification detectors worldwide. Collaborations with scientists from the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna underscored Arus’s role in fostering international scientific exchange. The last full run of the circular accelerator took place in 1998. Operations resumed in May of that year, shifting focus to photodisintegration studies and the investigation of quasi-deuteron disintegration in light nuclei such as helium-4 and lithium-6. These efforts aimed to deepen our understanding of nuclear interactions using the synchrotron’s polarized photon beam. From Electrons to Isotopes: What Happened Inside Put simply, a particle accelerator speeds up electrons or protons to near light-speed and smashes them into targets. This lets scientists study the tiniest building blocks of matter. Think of it as an atomic microscope—on steroids. As I stepped out of the elevator and saw the particle accelerator, a pleasant shiver ran down my spine At YerPhI, researchers focused on: Electron-photonuclear interactions Production of medical radioisotopes like technetium-99m Transition radiation in monocrystals Nuclear resonance structures Hadronic properties of photons Thanks to the synchrotron’s precision beamline —designed to eliminate electromagnetic noise and enable low-background experiments—researchers were able to carry out delicate, world-class physics investigations. I took a photo of Mr. Hakobyan as he explained how the accelerator worked Many of these experiments, including the development of wide-gap spark chambers and transition radiation detectors, positioned YerPhI as a serious contributor to international scientific collaborations from the mid-1980s onward. Back to our visit After passing through the gates, you’re guided to a large round building, where an elevator takes you four floors underground where the accelerator is located. Every instrument sits on a single elevation surface , with zero tolerance for millimeter error. That’s how precise things had to be. Massive half-meter-thick, lead-lined doors shield the lab—and the outside world—from potential radiation and other hazards. Inside these heavily reinforced corridors lies what was once a state-of-the-art research machine. Even today, its foundations are solid—scientifically and structurally. Where It Stands Today After the collapse of the Soviet Union, YerPhI faced tough times—lack of funding, scarce resources, and a brain drain of specialists. However, it managed to adapt to the changing global scientific landscape, continuing its research and contributing to the broader field of physics. While large-scale acceleration has stopped, the facility remains partially operational. It’s used for training, detector development, and even international research collaborations. Behind thick glass, we observed the work in the laboratory The building may carry the weight of the past, but the minds inside are very much focused on the future. The display boards told the rich history of the Physics Institute For the Curious Traveler YerPhI isn’t your average tourist stop, but it’s a goldmine for those who enjoy science with a twist of Soviet nostalgia . So if you're a traveler looking for more than just churches and khachkars—if you want to touch the edge of atoms and ambition—put YerPhI on your radar. Because Armenia isn’t just old; it’s also brilliant. 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 intriguing story of a sports complex frozen in time, constructed over a decade from 1975 to 1986 with the ambition of becoming the largest sports structure in the region. < Back A Soviet sports complex frozen in time Explore the intriguing story of a sports complex frozen in time, constructed over a decade from 1975 to 1986 with the ambition of becoming the largest sports structure in the region. This sports complex was built over approximately a decade, from 1975 to 1986, with the vision of becoming the largest sports structure in the region. It consists of three blocks, each equipped with separate halls for various sports. The complex boasts two swimming pools – one large and one small – along with an expansive backyard pool designed for kayaking. The basketball and futsal court However, the swimming pool constructed in 1986 has never been used. The primary reasons for its abandonment were water shortages and the subsequent collapse of the Soviet Union. 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

Bas-reliefs, a form of sculpture where figures are slightly raised from a flat background, have been used throughout history to commemorate events, celebrate cultural achievements, and propagate political ideologies. During the Soviet era, these artistic expressions were extensively employed across the Union, including in Armenia, to convey the principles and triumphs of socialism while also decorating buildings to create an inspiring atmosphere. < Back My Favorite Metal Bas-Reliefs in Armenia Bas-reliefs, a form of sculpture where figures are slightly raised from a flat background, have been used throughout history to commemorate events, celebrate cultural achievements, and propagate political ideologies. During the Soviet era, these artistic expressions were extensively employed across the Union, including in Armenia, to convey the principles and triumphs of socialism while also decorating buildings to create an inspiring atmosphere. After some contemplation, I decided to write an article about my favorite bas-reliefs in Armenia, dividing the work into two parts: metal bas-reliefs and stone bas-reliefs. Although metal bas-reliefs are not abundant in Armenia, the ones I have seen are wonderful and I truly admire them. Here are my favorite examples. Phoenix by William Petrosyan "Phoenix" bas-relief was created by sculptor William Petrosyan. Crafted from hammered copper, the sculpture stands 4 meters tall. The centerpiece depicts a woman holding a wreath in her left hand, accompanied by the Armenian letters Ա, Յ, and Բ (AYB). Completed in 1989, the bas-relief was installed on the wall of the State Theater of Song building on Pavstos Buzand Street in 1990. A careful eye will notice a resemblance among them; the expressions and body language of the women are very similar, and women often occupy a central part in most of these bas-reliefs, surrounded by cosmonauts and space-related objects. This bas-relief is my favorite. The figures appear to be levitating, as if in zero gravity The theme of cosmonautics, or space exploration, became a prominent motif in Soviet art during the mid-20th century, reflecting the USSR’s pioneering achievements in space exploration and its broader ideological, cultural, and political aspirations. This theme brought a fresh idea to art, and artists began to incorporate it into their works. This bas-relief is also impressive and, like the previous one, focuses on the subject of cosmonautics. Tariel Hakobyan "Labor and Fertility". Today, Soviet bas-reliefs in Armenia serve as poignant reminders of a complex and multifaceted past. They provide valuable educational opportunities for younger generations to learn about the history of the Soviet period, its art, and its impact on Armenian society. Moreover, these bas-reliefs are an integral part of Armenia’s urban landscape, contributing to the country’s unique cultural mosaic. 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

The time has come! I am now making a visit to one of the most stunning cultural houses in Armenia! This building, built in Soviet times, is an architectural masterpiece and can leave a lasting impression on urban explorers! < Back A stunning culture house in Armenia The time has come! I am now making a visit to one of the most stunning cultural houses in Armenia! This building, built in Soviet times, is an architectural masterpiece and can leave a lasting impression on urban explorers! This culture house is located in Verin (Upper) Artashat village in the Ararat region, Armenia. Designed by Gevorg Tamanyan, it was built in 1957 and is included in the list of immovable monuments of history and culture of Verin Artashat. Gevorg was Alexander Tamanyan’s son who, after his father’s death, continued working on unfinished projects. The culture house of Verin Artashat It is a two-story building with three sculptured entrances built with pink tuff and is distinguished by its unique design. Two rows of large-sized windows are installed along the entire length of the facade, designed with a pair of semi-columns and an arch. Above the arch is a row of smaller, circular windows. Took this photo while standing on the stage The 460-seat hall is located on the second floor. It was partially renovated in 2010, but all in all, it has preserved its initial look, and those who appreciate untouched relics from Soviet times should definitely add this location to their to-do list! The cultural house has a cozy library and classes for kids who are studying dancing and singing! Thanks to the librarian's efforts, the inside of the library was very neat, with books all lined up carefully and dust cleaned off The librarian, Mrs. Siranush, is a super kind and well-mannered woman who is ready to show around and tell stories to guests! 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 an urbex exploration in the Ararat region of Armenia, we spotted this intriguing house in the distance and couldn't resist the urge to explore its mysteries! < Back Inside Abandoned House During an urbex exploration in the Ararat region of Armenia, we spotted this intriguing house in the distance and couldn't resist the urge to explore its mysteries! Situated in Verin Artashat, along the route to the Dvin Archaeological Site, this two-story building reflects the architectural style of Armenian houses from the early 20th century. Despite its current state of decay, the house carries a unique charm, serving as a rare relic from that era. Although time has taken its toll, the remnants hint at the former grandeur of this historic dwelling. Imagine in spring when these trees blossom one can witness a fairy-tale scene! 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 cultural house in Armenia serves as a portal to the Soviet past, unveiling a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Remaining unrenovated, it has retained its original appearance, becoming a unique relic from the past that attracts urban explorers worldwide. < Back A Soviet Culture House in High Modernist Style This cultural house in Armenia serves as a portal to the Soviet past, unveiling a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Remaining unrenovated, it has retained its original appearance, becoming a unique relic from the past that attracts urban explorers worldwide. The Palace of Culture of Metsamor, founded between 1975 and 1986, later took on the name of Vazgen Sargsyan. Architects Martin Mikayelyan and Fred Africyan designed it in the high modernist style, characterized by aesthetic monotony, including large undecorated buildings with minimalist interiors, reaching its peak during the Cold War decades of 1950-1990. The facade of the culture house Since its opening in 1986, the Palace of Culture has never closed its doors to the audience and students. Unlike other buildings damaged or destroyed in the 90s, preservation efforts by the Metsamor House of Culture staff have kept everything intact, hosting theater performances and cultural events. The ceiling had a unique style and I liked it a lot. The House of Culture encompasses three groups: fine arts, needlework, and dance. Additionally, the Metsamor public library, housing over 32,000 pieces of literature, is located here. Presently, around 100 students engage in studies at the 694-seat Palace of Culture, participating in groups focused on ethnography, folk dances, and fine arts. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like 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 my urbex tours in Armenia, particularly in the Lori region, one of our must-see stops is the abandoned mansion of Armenian philanthropist Mikael Aramyants in the town of Akhtala. This mansion, with its rich history and architectural beauty, offers a unique glimpse into Armenia's past and is a key attraction on my urban exploration tours in Armenia. Let's delve into the story of this remarkable place. < Back Aramyants's Abandoned Mansion - A Glimpse into Urbex Decay and Tours in Armenia During my urbex tours in Armenia, particularly in the Lori region, one of our must-see stops is the abandoned mansion of Armenian philanthropist Mikael Aramyants in the town of Akhtala. This mansion, with its rich history and architectural beauty, offers a unique glimpse into Armenia's past and is a key attraction on my urban exploration tours in Armenia. Let's delve into the story of this remarkable place. Mikael Aramyants was a prominent Armenian oil magnate, industrialist, financier, and philanthropist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was the founder of the "National Benevolent Society" of Tiflis and a major benefactor who funded constructions of schools and hospitals in both Georgia and Armenia. In Tbilisi, one of his contributions still stands as the building that now houses the Ministry of Education. The Story Behind the Mansion The story of Aramyants's mansion begins with Georgian Prince Baratov, who had amassed significant debts and was forced to pledge his estate to the state land bank. Unable to repay these debts, Baratov turned to Aramyants for financial help. However, Baratov's reckless spending led to the estate being put up for auction. To recover his investment, Aramyants paid off the bank interest and purchased the estate. A historical photo of the mansion In 1885, Aramyants built a Swiss-style mansion on this land for his daughter, who was suffering from tuberculosis. The mansion was exquisitely decorated, with furniture imported from Europe and rare plants like Californian pines (cypresses) brought from Japan. It was a symbol of Aramyants's wealth and taste. The Soviet Era and Beyond During Soviet times, the mansion was converted into a holiday home for workers and peasants, later becoming the "Debed" boarding house. However, after Armenia gained independence, the mansion fell into neglect. In 2005, it was sold to a private company for a mere 1.2 million drams, with promises of restoration and development that were never fulfilled. Today, the mansion, covering 3,700 square meters, is in a state of disrepair. Despite its dilapidated condition, a café operates nearby, and visitors must purchase tickets (1500 AMD per person for foreigners) to see the mansion. Aramyants's mansion today Fascinating Facts The mansion hosted notable figures such as Hovhannes Tumanyan, Catholicos Khrimyan Hayrik, opera singer Fyodor Shalyapin, and theater director Vsevolod Meyerhold. The declaration of the First Republic of Armenia was adopted in Aramyants's mansion. The first tennis court in Armenia was located on the mansion's grounds. On December 15, 2016, the mansion was officially recognized as a historical and cultural monument. Exploring Aramyants's mansion is a journey into the past, revealing the grandeur and decay that characterize much of Armenia's pre Soviet-era heritage. Join me on one of my urbex tours in Armenia to experience this and many other hidden gems. 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

Across the Soviet republics, monuments, fountains, mosaics, and other massive art pieces dedicated to the “friendship of nations” were everywhere. They promoted the idea of unity among peoples, and many shared a standard, copy-paste design across different republics. One such monument stands in Gyumri — and its story is far more complicated than it seems at first glance. < Back The Friendship of Nations Monument in Gyumri Across the Soviet republics, monuments, fountains, mosaics, and other massive art pieces dedicated to the “friendship of nations” were everywhere. They promoted the idea of unity among peoples, and many shared a standard, copy-paste design across different republics. One such monument stands in Gyumri — and its story is far more complicated than it seems at first glance. As you enter Gyumri from the eastern road, you’ll notice an old concrete monument on the right side, just opposite the former Glass Factory. At first glance, it might look like a typical piece of Soviet-era public art. In reality, it’s part of a larger family of nearly identical monuments called “Friendship of Nations” found in other Soviet republics like Belarus or Ukraine. The origins of this design are surprisingly difficult to trace. Even in the countries where the replicas stand, reliable documentation is scarce. Based on the research available so far, the earliest known example appeared in Vitebsk, Belarus. It has stood on Maxim Gorky Street since 1952, in front of what was known as the “5th Communal House.” Friendship of Nations Monument on Maxim Gorky Street — originally from Vitebsk, Belarus A closer look shows three figures — a girl and two men — each representing a different region of the world: Asian, Slavic, and African heritage. This theme reflected the geopolitical vision of the time. Several African nations were, at various points in the 20th century, aligned with the Marxist–Leninist bloc during the Cold War, which explains their symbolic presence in Soviet monumental art. Interestingly, the replicas aren’t perfectly identical. Their proportions differ slightly, and even the gestures change from one version to another. For example, the figure representing Africa is shown with a raised fist in some monuments, while in others — such as the one in Armenia — the hand is raised with an open palm. The Ukrainian Replicas Ukraine, for reasons still unclear, had the largest concentration of these “Friendship of Nations” monuments. Here is a list of some of their locations. Nikolaevskaya Road in front of the “Young Guard” (Николаевская дорога перед «Молодой Гвардией») “Friendship of Nations” sculpture in Shevchenko Park («Дружба народов», скульптура в парке им. Шевченко) Chkalov Sanatorium (санаторий им. Чкалова) Factory named after the January Uprising (Завод им. Январского восстания) Night Sanatorium of the Jute Factory (Ночной санаторий Джутовой фабрики) Children’s Sanatorium Prykarpatskiy , Ivano-Frankivsk Region (Детский санаторий "Прикарпатский" Ивано-Франковская область) Historical photographs confirm that these monuments were already standing by the early 1950s. The Gyumri Monument Today Unfortunately, the Gyumri replica is in poor condition. When I visited the monument on November 17, one of the figures was already broken off. Just a month earlier, the monument had still been fully intact. At first, I assumed it was vandalism — until a traveler from abroad messaged me, saying her friends were present when it fell on its own. She even claimed to have photos, though none were ever sent. Regardless of the cause, the current situation is sad. This piece of Soviet-era public art, replicated at least across three republics and tied to an entire era’s ideology, is deteriorating quietly on the edge of Gyumri. Whether it will be restored, preserved, or left to crumble remains an open question — but its story deserves to be remembered. 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 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