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While researching the history of the Stalin statue erected in Yerevan in 1950, I found myself wondering: What was the tallest statue of Stalin ever built? Determined to uncover the answer, I delved into historical records—and here’s what I discovered. < Back The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected While researching the history of the Stalin statue erected in Yerevan in 1950, I found myself wondering: What was the tallest statue of Stalin ever built? Determined to uncover the answer, I delved into historical records—and here’s what I discovered. Stalin’s Statue in Yerevan (1950–1962) On October 29, 1950, a grand statue of Joseph Stalin was unveiled in Yerevan. Considered a masterpiece by renowned sculptor Sergey Merkurov, the statue stood atop a towering pedestal designed by architect Rafayel Israyelian. The bronze figure itself measured 17 meters, while its monumental pedestal added another 33 meters, bringing the total height to 50 meters. At the time, this was the tallest Stalin statue ever erected. Stalin Statue in Yerevan A local legend suggests that Stalin himself visited Yerevan at night to see the monument and approved of it. However, no factual evidence exists to support this claim. Total height: 50 meters Sculpture height: 17 meters Pedestal height: 33 meters In this historical photo, you can see that the pedestal is empty. It was taken between 1962 and 1967, after Stalin’s statue had been removed but before Mother Armenia was installed. However, like many Stalin-era monuments, the statue was removed during the de-Stalinization process. It was dismantled in 1962, and in 1967, the Mother Armenia monument by sculptor Ara Harutyunyan was installed in its place, utilizing the original pedestal. The Stalin Monument at the Entrance of the Volga-Don Canal in Stalingrad: The Tallest Ever. Stalingrad was renamed Volgograd on November 10, 1961, as part of Nikita Khrushchev’s de-Stalinization campaign. On July 27, 1952, an even taller Stalin statue was unveiled at the entrance of the Volga-Don Shipping Canal, named after Vladimir Lenin. This colossal project was designed by sculptor Evgeny Vuchetich and architect Leonid Polyakov. To construct the monument, a special batch of native copper was mined. The sculpture itself stood 24 meters tall, while its massive pedestal measured 30 meters, resulting in a total height of 54 meters—the tallest Stalin statue ever built. This record was never surpassed. Total height: 54 meters Sculpture height: 24 meters Pedestal height: 30 meters Despite popular belief that the monument was removed shortly after Stalingrad was renamed Volgograd in 1961, it actually remained standing until March 1962. And then in the course of a single night, as part of the de-Stalinization efforts, the statue was dismantled. The fate of the statue remains unknown. For several years, the pedestal remained empty until it was repurposed for a monument to Vladimir Lenin. Lenin monument at the entrance to the Volga-Don Canal (1973–Present) At the initiative of the RSFSR Ministry of Culture, the empty pedestal was designated for a new Lenin monument. Once again, Evgeny Vuchetich and Leonid Polyakov were selected as the designers. Initially, a Lenin bust was proposed, but the artists of Volgograd rejected this idea, opting instead for a full-scale monument. Construction began in 1969, and the monument was completed in time for Lenin’s 103rd birthday. The official unveiling took place on April 20, 1973. The sculpture, like The Motherland Calls! in Volgograd, was made using pre-stressed reinforced concrete, with internal metal cables providing structural integrity. Total height: 57 meters Sculpture height: 27 meters Pedestal height: 30 meters By 2011, the monument showed signs of wear, requiring urgent repairs. In December 2024, a competition was announced for its restoration, with an estimated budget of 8.4 million rubles. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel 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

Following the 2020 Second Nagorno-Karabakh War and subsequent escalations, many visitors planning a trip to Armenia have questioned the safety of traveling to the country. This brief article aims to shed light on this topic. < Back Armenia is among top 10 safest countries Following the 2020 Second Nagorno-Karabakh War and subsequent escalations, many visitors planning a trip to Armenia have questioned the safety of traveling to the country. This brief article aims to shed light on this topic. According to the World Population Review in 2023, Armenia boasts the ninth-lowest crime rate globally, measuring at 22.79 per 100,000 citizens. The Crime Index categorizes this as a very low crime rate. The country maintains a relatively low level of crime, with an even lower impact on tourists. (By the way, the Crime Index is an estimate of the overall crime rate in a given city or country. The organization considers crime rates below 20 to be very low, crime rates from 20 to 40 as low, crime rates from 40 to 60 as moderate, crime rates from 60 to 80 as high, and finally crime rates above 80 as very high.) Addressing the recent escalations with Azerbaijan, it's crucial to note that areas of armed conflict are primarily near the border. However, popular tourist destinations, including sightseeing spots and hiking trails, are situated far from these regions. The likelihood of endangering your trip due to such incidents is very low. Overall, travelers have reported positive experiences exploring Armenia's rich cultural heritage. As in any other country, it is advisable to follow safety instructions: remain vigilant when crossing streets, especially during late hours and in restricted areas, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and adhere to the advice and instructions of local authorities. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel 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

When I visited the institute, I saw a room filled with crystal growth furnaces. To me, they looked more like forgotten artworks than old scientific machines. Rows of cylindrical chambers with heavy bolts and pipes stood in place, humming softly as water trickled through their cooling systems. This article aims to shed light on these marvelous machines which, thanks to their high quality, are still operating and producing crystals < Back Inside a Soviet-Era Crystal Growth Lab When I visited the institute, I saw a room filled with crystal growth furnaces. To me, they looked more like forgotten artworks than old scientific machines. Rows of cylindrical chambers with heavy bolts and pipes stood in place, humming softly as water trickled through their cooling systems. This article aims to shed light on these marvelous machines which, thanks to their high quality, are still operating and producing crystals An elderly scientist welcomed us and began to explain how the machines work. The terminology was too dense for me to follow in real time, but thankfully my friend recorded the lecture. Later, with some research, I managed to reconstruct what was happening here. These were Czochralski crystal growth machines, also called crystal pullers. Seeing them for the first time was something new for me. I am usually drawn to Soviet monumental art, but in that moment, these machines impressed me just as much. They looked like sculptures from an industrial age when science and technology had their own aesthetic power. The Czochralski Method The Czochralski method is the most widely used process for growing large single crystals. It was first developed in 1916 by Polish scientist Jan Czochralski, but it reached its peak during the Cold War, when both the Soviet Union and the West needed perfect crystals for semiconductors and lasers. Here’s how it works: Melting the material – A crucible, usually made of quartz, is filled with extremely pure raw material, like silicon or aluminum oxide, and heated until it melts. The heaters are often made of molybdenum or graphite, materials that can withstand enormous temperatures. Creating an inert atmosphere – The chamber is filled with an inert gas, most often argon, so that the molten material does not oxidize or react with air. Pulling the crystal – A small “seed crystal” is dipped into the molten material. The seed is then slowly pulled upward and rotated. As it rises, atoms from the melt attach themselves to the seed’s atomic lattice, gradually building a single crystal, called a boule. Shaping and control – By carefully controlling the pulling speed and rotation, the scientist can determine the crystal’s diameter and quality. The result is a large, perfect crystal that can later be sliced and polished for use in electronics, optics, or lasers. Other Techniques Not every furnace in the room was a vertical puller. Some appeared to be horizontal multi-zone tube furnaces, which are used in the Bridgman–Stockbarger method or in zone refining. In this approach, the material in a crucible is slowly moved through different heating zones inside a horizontal tube. The gradual temperature change allows crystals to form. This technique was widely used in Soviet laboratories during the 1960s–1970s to produce high-purity semiconductors like silicon and germanium. The control panels, with their teal-blue dials, gauges, and switches, gave the room an almost retro-futuristic look. Voltmeters and ammeters measured the power going to the heaters. Timers tracked the process. Rows of round indicator lights showed the status of different heating zones. The whole setup looked both old-fashioned and incredibly advanced for its time. The scientist even showed us pipe-shaped ruby crystals. Holding them felt like touching a piece of history. Ruby crystals were central to the invention of the laser. In 1964, Soviet physicists Aleksandr Prokhorov and Nikolay Basov shared the Nobel Prize in Physics with American Charles Townes for their theoretical work on masers and lasers — the principle of producing coherent light by stimulated emission. While the first working ruby laser was actually built in the United States by Theodore Maiman in 1960, it was Prokhorov and Basov who laid the theoretical foundation and developed many of the techniques that made such breakthroughs possible. The furnaces in this institute are not only for semiconductors like silicon wafers. They also produce a range of crystals used in optics and laser technology: Garnets (YAG, Y₃Al₅O₁₂): Widely used in solid-state lasers. Fluorides (CaF₂, LiF, BaF₂): Essential for UV lenses, infrared windows, and as laser host materials. Ruby (Al₂O₃ doped with chromium): The first solid-state laser crystal, still used for research and education. Sapphire (pure Al₂O₃): Valued for its hardness, optical clarity, and use as a substrate in electronics. Walking out of the lab, I felt as if I had stepped back in time. The machines, the smell of heated metal, the sound of water cooling pipes — everything reminded me of the Soviet tradition of merging science, industry, and vision. For me, someone more used to admiring monumental Soviet mosaics and sculptures, these crystal growth machines carried the same sense of power and beauty. They are not relics. They are still at work, producing crystals for optics and lasers, keeping alive a legacy of scientific craftsmanship that began decades ago and still shines today. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . 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Carlus, a traveler from Spain, joined my urban exploration tour in Armenia, during which we explored abandoned places and iconic Soviet-era locations in a Lada Niva he rented locally. This tour was especially nostalgic for me, as our family car was a red Niva, bringing back fond memories. Our journey took us from an abandoned cultural house to the Byurakan Observatory, the ROT54 telescope, abandoned pioneer camp, other Soviet-era sites, and eerie, abandoned copper tunnels, uncovering some of Armenia’s most hidden gems. Here is a brief overview of our tour. < Back Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Carlus, a traveler from Spain, joined my urban exploration tour in Armenia, during which we explored abandoned places and iconic Soviet-era locations in a Lada Niva he rented locally. This tour was especially nostalgic for me, as our family car was a red Niva, bringing back fond memories. Our journey took us from an abandoned cultural house to the Byurakan Observatory, the ROT54 telescope, abandoned pioneer camp, other Soviet-era sites, and eerie, abandoned copper tunnels, uncovering some of Armenia’s most hidden gems. Here is a brief overview of our tour. Carlus, a traveler from Spain, reached out to me before his trip to Armenia to join one of my urban exploration tours. Being a big fan of the Lada Niva, he rented that iconic car in Armenia to explore the country and dedicated two days to our urbex adventures. So, instead of my usual Volkswagen Jetta, the tour took place in the legendary Niva! On the first day, we met in Yerevan for a beer, and the next day he picked me up from our yard! I liked him right from the first handshake, and we instantly found a lot in common to talk about. He shared stories about his travels in his Toyota and how he navigated the roads of the Paris-Dakar rally, roaming Africa’s wild landscapes on his trusty iron horse! With Carlus at the Byurakan Observatory, behind us is an iconic building designed by Sargis Gurzadyan, which houses the ZTA-2.6 telescope, the largest observational instrument at the BAO. After the Byurakan Observatory, we headed to the nearby village of Ogov to see the legendary ROT54 telescope! Carlus is sitting in the control room of ROT54 Then we headed to the Lori Region! Of course, we made a pit stop at the Gntuniq food court to fuel up with some local food before exploring a Soviet-era pioneer camp called "Fairy Tale." For the night, we stayed near village of Odzun, where an old Soviet-era hotel is located. It was built in 1971 for the managers of the Alaverdi copper factory. I really enjoy this place, and it's where I usually suggest my guests stay! The view from Odzun hotel Situated at the foot of a mountain high above Odzun village, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the city buzz—no noise, just the whisper of nature and a beautiful view of Odzun village and the surrounding landscapes. Across an old and rusty bridge we are heading towards a tunnels of the copper mine to capture unearthly photos! Crossing over this bridge is raising some adrenaline! Our primary destination was the tunnels of the abandoned copper mine, which we explored the following day after visiting several other sites. We concluded the day with a visit to an abandoned plane in Hrazdan! Night urbex... lol. During our trip, Carlus shared many fascinating stories. Among them, he told me about an incredible location called Pozo Sotón. A quick note: Pozo Sotón is a historical coal mine situated in Asturias, Spain, near the town of San Martín del Rey Aurelio. It stands as a significant part of Spain's industrial heritage and has been repurposed into a captivating tourist destination. Visitors can delve into its underground chambers, gaining a profound understanding of miners' lives and the rich history of coal mining in the region. By the time I was writing this article, Carlus had sent me photos showing that he had finally visited Pozo Sotón. I couldn't be happier for him! I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Previous Next

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 The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Previous Next

Explore Fridtjof Nansen's compassionate journey in 1925 through post-World War I and post-Genocide Armenia. Discover his dedication to Armenian refugees, canal-building initiatives, and the unique encounters with the country's culture. Join Nansen on this humanitarian odyssey documented in "Gjennern Armenia," shedding light on his profound impact on Armenian history and society. < Back Polar Explorer Fridtjof Nansen’s Visit to Armenia Explore Fridtjof Nansen's compassionate journey in 1925 through post-World War I and post-Genocide Armenia. Discover his dedication to Armenian refugees, canal-building initiatives, and the unique encounters with the country's culture. Join Nansen on this humanitarian odyssey documented in "Gjennern Armenia," shedding light on his profound impact on Armenian history and society. Being a great humanist Norwegian polar explorer, Fridtjof Nansen made efforts to help the people left homeless, alienated and starving as a result of the First World War. The Armenian people, who were on the verge of annihilation as a result of the 1915 Genocide, were always in the center of his attention. In 1924, Nansen actively addressed Armenian refugee issues, advocating for a just resolution, improving emigrants' conditions, facilitating their return, and initiating canal projects to cultivate arid lands. Nansen's impactful efforts granted "Nansen passports" to thousands, easing their plight. Nansen during his travels in Armenia. Notice the carpet on which he is sitting! At 7 o'clock on June 16, 1925, Nansen and his commission left Tiflis by train for Armenia. During the night, they traversed the Lori region, known for its forested mountains and gorges, and the next morning, they encountered a different landscape. Unlike Lori, the Aragatsotn region lacks forested areas. On that occasion, he wrote: "The land is barren, without trees; there is no green anywhere, no wooded hill in sight. Is this dry, yellowish land supposed to be cultivated for refugees? The scene in front of my window did not leave an encouraging impression." On June 17, 1925, a warm welcome awaited Nansen and his delegation at Yerevan station. On June 18, the Nansen commission leaves for Sardarapat region. At that time, it was very important to create an irrigation system for the Sardarapat field and make it a fertile land. They visited Hoktemberyan's cotton factory and expressed their satisfaction about ii. Nansen in Armenia Then moved to the Armenian-Turkish border, explored the shores of Araks river, visited Margara and other Armenian villages. Afterwards, the guests visited the ruins of Armavir, one of the ancient capitals of Armenia, surrounded by cotton fields. A young woman working there gave Nansen a cotton cocoon, of which Nansen wrote: "It was a welcome wish according to the custom of the country, so natural, simple and touching. I held that tender cotton for a long time.'' The guests then visited the village of Bambakashat, whose inhabitants welcomed them with salt and bread, milk and fruits. The same day in the evening, the guests return to Yerevan and are invited to a dinner in the city's summer park, where they not only enjoy delicious Armenian food and fruits, but also listen to Armenian music, for which Nansen personally thanks choir leader K. Shahnazaryan. Later, he wrote in his travel notes: "The food and Armenian wine are good, but there is no mention of fruits. At that time, the apricots had started to ripen. Armenia itself is the motherland of apricots, the apricots here are so big and juicy that I have never seen such anywhere." After the Armenian Genocide, thousands of children became orphans. They found shelters in various parts of the world, including Eastern Armenia. In this photo, you can see Nansen having lunch with orphans in Leninakan (Gyumri). After the sessions held the next day, the guests visit the Museum of the History of Armenia, and the knowledge gained on the skeletons and skulls studied there, Nansen later uses in his work written about Armenians. After that, the guests were led to Yerevan State University, where a warm reception was organized. A friendly party is organized in the courtyard of the university, which takes place in a warm and businesslike atmosphere. Nansen is awarded the title of honorary doctor and honorary member of the scientific council of Yerevan State University. After visiting the university, the guests went to the Zangvi coast and saw the Yerevan fortress. On June 20, Nansen's delegation continues to explore the Sardarapat Plain, approaching Araks river and discussing the possibility of building a canal. They observe the Surmalu Plateau, which was once covered with vineyards, gardens, and fields, but has now risen to a bare plain. In the evening, they come to the Hoktemberyan station to take the train to Leninakan. But it turns out that their special carriage has to be attached to the train quite late. Therefore, as they spend most of the night there, Nansen prefers lying in the open air on a tarpaulin under a starry sky, rather than sleeping in a hot compartment coach. On June 21, Nansen and his companions were already in Leninakan, where they felt the breath of new life and participated in the opening of the Shirak canal, which turned into a popular celebration. When the water flowed, Nansen threw his broad-brimmed hat into the water as a sign of joy and a bright vision of the future. Returning to the city, they attend a dinner. Nansen also visits the newly established textile factory in Leninakan, where a warm welcome is organized and he himself speaks with words of thanks and good wishes. Bust of Fridtjof Nansen in Yerevan (sculptor Garegin Davtyan). Armenia will never forget how Nansen helped us! To honor him in Armenia there are streets and parks named after him, as well as a museum dedicated to Nansen and statues commemorating his contributions. On the morning of June 24, they leave for Yerevan, through the northern regions of Armenia. They were in Lori, specifically in Stepanavan, Gharakilisa (now Vanadzor) and then went to Dilijan, where they visited the Republican Sanatorium. After spending the night in Dilijan, the guests take the route to Sevan, the unique beauty of which enchants Nansen. On the banks of the Sevan River, they eat royal trout or, as Nansen called it, "the jewel of the Armenian feast." Then they move to Yerevan. On June 27, Nansen's commission was in Kanaker, Garni, Dvin, banks of Zangvi river, Ghrer, Sevjur. On June 28, the guests visited Etchmiadzin, got acquainted with its architectural monuments and were received by the Catholicos. They get to know the manuscripts in the local bookstores. Nansen during his travels in Armenia Nansen was particularly fascinated by the structure of the cathedral and the church of Hripsime, with the domes rising on the quadrangle. On June 29, they visited the Yerevan hydroelectric power station, which was a unique structure and left a great impression. Then they entered "Ararat" wine factory and tasted Armenian drinks. "Everyone was nice... red wine... sherry... madera... port wine... At the end, I was given muscat... I had never drunk such wonderful wine," he wrote. In the evening of the same day, a government dinner is organized in honor of the guests on the bank of Zangvi. In addition to traveling through Armenia, Nansen also participates in many meetings, during which important issues were discussed. He also visits the studio of Martiros Saryan, where he gets acquainted with the works of the great artist. Saryan immortalized that meeting with two portraits of Nansen, which are now kept in Saryan's museum. On July 1, a farewell concert will be held at the city theater, followed by a dinner. On July 2, 1925, statesmen, accompanied by a large crowd, bid farewell to the great philanthropist from the Yerevan railway station. Nansen writes: "Yerevan, Zangvi valley, beautiful gardens were disappearing behind us. In the south, Ararat stood cloudless in all its height, and its broad snow-covered peak was shining under the light of the sun." Nansen described his trip to Armenia in the book "Gjennern Armenia" ("Through Armenia") published in 1927. Two years later, another book of his, also related to the 1925 trip, "Gjennern Kaukasus til Volga" ("Through the Caucasus to the Volga") was published. Nansen did not give up caring for the Armenian people until the end of his life. In 1928, he toured America, during which he gave fund-raising lectures for the benefit of Armenians. 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This abandoned culture house in Bjni has some of the most amazing frescoes I ever saw. < Back Discovered an abandoned Soviet-era culture house in Armenia This abandoned culture house in Bjni has some of the most amazing frescoes I ever saw. While culture houses in the Soviet Union shared a similar architectural style, their interior design could vary depending on the country. 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. The facade of the culture house! Looks futuristic... not bad for Soviet times... 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. The author of this huge fresco is honored Armenian artist Henrik Siravyan. It’s called "History and Present" and was created in 1975. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Previous Next

During this urbex tour, I'm exploring a 14-story building, once a bustling sanatorium during Soviet times. Today, it stands abandoned, stripped of windows and doors. Only a handful of artworks adorn the walls, serving as poignant reminders of its former glory. < Back Exploring an abandoned sanatorium During this urbex tour, I'm exploring a 14-story building, once a bustling sanatorium during Soviet times. Today, it stands abandoned, stripped of windows and doors. Only a handful of artworks adorn the walls, serving as poignant reminders of its former glory. Located close to the capital Yerevan, in a scenic town famous for its mineral water, this place was once home to Armenia’s most prestigious sanatoriums. Visitors from across the Soviet Union came here to relax, recover, and improve their health. The sanatorium In the Soviet Union and post-Soviet countries, a sanatorium is a combined resort and medical facility offering short-term rest and medical services, akin to a spa resort. The history of these health resorts dates back to 1920s when the construction of the first sanatoriums started! Inside, one can come across this wonderful fresco, seemingly created by a professional artist, still resisting the destructive forces of water and time. Construction of the third sanatorium’s 14-story building began in 1975 and was completed nine years later. Architect : Martin Mikayelyan Engineer: Karlen Ghazaryan The accommodations were luxurious, featuring therapeutic baths section, numerous recreation rooms, a cinema, and a cozy two-story restaurant accessible via a covered ground passage. Nearby stands an unfinished funicular, originally intended to connect this building with the first sanatorium. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Previous Next

In 1982, a group of climbers from Soviet Union embarked on a daring expedition to conquer Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain. This was the first acknowledged Soviet expedition to the Himalayas! < Back 1982 Soviet Everest Expedition In 1982, a group of climbers from Soviet Union embarked on a daring expedition to conquer Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain. This was the first acknowledged Soviet expedition to the Himalayas! The 1982 Soviet Himalayan Expedition was a significant event in the history of mountaineering. It marked the first time that Soviet climbers embarked on an expedition to the Himalayas. The expedition took place in the spring of 1982, following a lengthy period of preparation. The expedition was dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the formation of the USSR. The members of the 1982 Soviet Himalayan Expedition were selected from one and a half hundred candidates, and the final team consisted of 25 people. The selection process involved a series of training camps during which the organizing committee and the Federation of Mountaineering paid attention to the preparation of athletes, their health, and psychological compatibility. The candidates participated in both sports (who will climb faster to the peak of Communism) and medical tests (testing in a baro-chamber at altitudes up to 10,000 m). The expedition leader was Evgeny Tamm, the senior coach was Anatoly Ovchinnikov, the coach was Boris Romanov, and the team captain was Valentin Ivanov. For the assault on the mountain, the climbers were divided into four sports teams: Eduard Myslovsky, Nikolay Cherny, Vladimir Balyberdin, Vladimir Shoppin Valentin Ivanov, Sergey Efimov, Mikhail Turkevich, Sergey Bershov Yervand Ilyinsky, Sergey Chepchev, Kazbek Valiev, Valery Khristchaty Vyacheslav Onishchenko, Valery Khomutov, Vladimir Puchkov, Alexey Moskaltsov, Yuri Golodov The fourth team was initially intended to be a support team, assisting with the organization of high-altitude camps and the delivery of supplies, as there was uncertainty about the assistance of Sherpa porters on the chosen route. However, once in the Himalayas, the coaching council decided that the team would participate in the ascent on equal terms. Despite the fact that prior to the expedition, Soviet climbers had not ascended peaks higher than 7600 meters (the height of the highest peak in the USSR, Peak Communism, is 7495 meters), the ascent was made via a route on the southwest wall that had not been used by anyone before. This route was more complex than all the routes on Everest that had been passed before. The expedition team established seven camps at various altitudes on Everest for the direct preparation of the ascent: Base camp (21.03., 5340m) — slightly below the Khumbu Icefall Intermediate camp (21.03, 6100m) Camp 1 (22.03., 6500m) Camp 2 (31.03., 7350m) Camp 3 (12.04., 7850m) Camp 4 (18.04., 8250m) Assault camp (03.05., 8500m) Eleven Soviet climbers managed to reach the summit of Everest, mostly in pairs. Some climbers reached the summit at night. Several athletes received injuries; later, one of them had four frostbitten phalanges on both hands amputated. The ascents were stopped due to severely deteriorating weather. The ascent of eleven climbers to the summit of Everest without fatal cases was considered a success. The climbers who reached the summit of Everest were: Vladimir Balyberdin and Eduard Myslovsky on May 4, 1982 Sergey Bershov and Mikhail Turkevich on the night of May 4-5, 1982 Valentin Ivanov and Sergey Efimov on May 5, 1982 Kazbek Valiev and Valery Khristchaty on the night of May 7-8, 1982 Valery Khomutov, Vladimir Puchkov, and Yuri Golodov on May 9, 1982 After the ascent: After the ascentall participants of the expedition were awarded the title of Honored Masters of Sports. At the time of the ascent, seven out of eleven members of the expedition were already champions of the USSR in mountaineering, including all three Almaty residents who were two-time champions, and Ural resident Sergey Efimov, who was a three-time champion. On December 20, 1982, a special postal block (CFA [AO “Marka”] No. 5356) was issued in the USSR with a circulation of 800,000 copies. The work of Yu. Levinovsky, it featured the State Flag of the USSR, a scheme of the route of the First Soviet Himalayan Expedition, Soviet climbers making the ascent, and a commemorative text. As of the early 2010s, the route of the expedition had not been passed by any other climber. In the future, some of those who failed to conquer Everest during this expedition were able to reach the summit. However, it remained unconquered for Vyacheslav Onishchenko, Vladimir Shoppin, Sergey Chepchev, and Alexey Moskaltsov. 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This abandoned Soviet-era factory in Armenia had a lot to offer! Two notable things we discovered during this urbex tour were a unique fresco and a 'Lenin, Engels, Marx' mosaic. < Back Exploring an abandoned chemical factory in Armenia This abandoned Soviet-era factory in Armenia had a lot to offer! Two notable things we discovered during this urbex tour were a unique fresco and a 'Lenin, Engels, Marx' mosaic. I wanted to get inside this abandoned factory in Armenia for a long time, and the time finally came! We had a vague information that there is a fresco in this factory and went to check it out. After wandering around for a while we finally spotted the fresco from outside and got inside the building! Glory to the Komsomol! My heart started to beat happily… the fresco was amazing! So far it is the only Soviet fresco that I found in Armenia with a Russian inscription on it: Слава комсомолу! Glory to the Komsomol! DETEKCNI TRUBICE We went on exploring further and got inside a room with lots of boxes called “Detekcni Trubice”! A quick google research said that: “Detekcni Trubice - UH - V detection tubes are intended for the determination of hydrocarbons and the lower explosive limit of solvent vapors in the air. The detection tube KT - 1 serves to determine the direction of air flow. Detection tubes are intended for single use.” We moved forward… suddenly my friend called “Hurry up! Look what I found”. With a smile on my face I am posing for a photo ... I entered a large room and saw on the wall a big mosaic of Lenin, Engels and Marx! It left a strong impression on me—a piece of history that may soon vanish… Needless to say that we also saw countless warning posters on the walls … For more check out the gallery below... I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Previous Next

"Aragil" is an abandoned building in Victory Park, Yerevan, not far from the "Mother Armenia" monument. Since it sits atop a high hill, it offers a picturesque view of Yerevan. Unsurprisingly, it draws urban explorers, and some budget travelers even pitch tents to spend the night! < Back Aragil Restaurant in Victory Park "Aragil" is an abandoned building in Victory Park, Yerevan, not far from the "Mother Armenia" monument. Since it sits atop a high hill, it offers a picturesque view of Yerevan. Unsurprisingly, it draws urban explorers, and some budget travelers even pitch tents to spend the night! The "Aragil" (stork) restaurant, constructed in the 1960s in the style of regional modernism by architect Rafael Israelyan, stands abandoned and partially demolished in Victory Park, Yerevan. It is listed as a historical and cultural monument in the Kanaker-Zeytun Yerevan district. Aragil restaurant in winter The building, constructed from white stone with five identical arched entrances, showcases bas-reliefs of storks on its eastern and western walls, intricately carved by the master artisan Hrach Stepanyan. A bas-relief by Hrach Stepanyan Today, the site appeals primarily to urbex enthusiasts and those who appreciate its secluded charm. The elevated location offers a splendid view, making it an ideal spot for couples to embrace and enjoy the scenery. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like The Forgotten 50 cm Cassegrain Telescope of Byurakan Observatory Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Previous Next

This is the remarkable story of Ivo Zdarsky, an aircraft designer who gained fame for escaping from Czechoslovakia on a homemade ultralight aircraft. This article sheds light on his courageous journey to freedom. < Back Ivo Zdarsky – The Man Who Escaped The Iron Curtain This is the remarkable story of Ivo Zdarsky, an aircraft designer who gained fame for escaping from Czechoslovakia on a homemade ultralight aircraft. This article sheds light on his courageous journey to freedom. Ivo Zdarsky, born in communist Czechoslovakia in 1960, started building self-designed hang gliders in his teenage years. He studied at the aircraft engineering department, developed propellers, and sought to flee Czechoslovakia, where legal exit was prohibited by the communist regime. Educated and professionally trained as an aviation engineer in Prague, he made the decision to escape to one of the capitalist countries. Zdarsky is taking a flight on a hang glider in Czechoslovakia. Photo credits: Ivo Zdarsky To accomplish his escape, Zdarsky constructed a homemade trike, equipping it with an engine from a Trabant car and a propeller of his own design. On the night of August 4, 1984, he flew to Vienna-Schwechat airport in Austria. During takeoff, a rock hit one of the blades, but the propeller held together, thanks to not being made of wood. Flying above the trees toward a border radar station, he pushed the engine to full power directly above the station, climbing into the radar’s cone-shaped blind spot and gliding swiftly across the Danube River to safety in Austrian airspace. His only worry was that the Trabant engine might quit, as it was known for its unreliability. Fortunately, on that night, it worked like a charm. “It was a nice, beautiful, warm night in August,” Zdarsky recalls. “There were stars everywhere. I remember I was using the Big Dipper so I could do celestial navigation if my compass would fail.” Ivo Zdarsky in Austria, in front of his self made hang glider on which he escaped. Photo Credits: Ivo Zdarsky Describing that historic moment of his life, Ivo says, “That night of August 4, 1984, I wanted to leave (Czechoslovakia) at 3 a.m. because that is when people were least active. So I ended up flying over Vienna for two hours like a tourist then went looking for the international airport. I circled the tower twice, but there was nobody in the tower! Ha ha! It was still dark then – this is the fun part – I saw a 747 being towed along a taxiway. There was a little bit of light there, so I landed beneath the wing of this Boeing. Enough room for two trikes! Besides, mine didn’t have a pole or wires on top but was strut-braced… something from having to keep a low profile when flying below electric lines. Anyway, a mechanic came running out, yelling. I raised my hands with an expired Czech passport and asked for political asylum. Then they were really nice to me…” After only six weeks as a political refugee in Austria, he sold his trike to the museum at Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin and moved to Long Beach, California, where he founded a propeller-manufacturing company in 1986. Zdarsky and his trike after landing in Vienna. Photo Credts: Ivo Zdarsky His company started to produce propellers called Ivopropruen, used on small aircraft, hang gliders, and new experimental models. Ivo also started to develop an ultra-light aircraft, which is a combination of an airplane and a helicopter. Today, the entrepreneur’s home is located more than 320 kilometers from the nearest settlements, and the nearest store - the city of Ogden is a 45-minute flight. Ivo has two aircraft, one of which is an experimental hybrid - a helicopter and an airplane, combined in one version. Ivo Zdarsky became the first person to successfully fly a homebuilt aircraft over the Iron Curtain to freedom! Earlier, I wrote an article about Armenian daredevils whose escape attempt failed, as their self-made aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff. Zdarsky is an inspiring example of someone who followed his dreams despite all the obstacles and challenges he faced. He is also a testament to human ingenuity and creativity. His story is one of courage, perseverance, and adventure. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel 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