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Discover the Church of Saint Arsenius in Gyumri, Armenia's largest Russian church. Built in the 1870s, this historic landmark, now an abandoned church in ruins, boasts a unique design and continues to attract visitors from around the world. < Back The largest Russian church in Armenia Discover the Church of Saint Arsenius in Gyumri, Armenia's largest Russian church. Built in the 1870s, this historic landmark, now an abandoned church in ruins, boasts a unique design and continues to attract visitors from around the world. The Church of Saint Arsenius, located in the Kazachi Post area of Gyumri, Armenia, is the largest Russian church in the country. Named after the archbishop of Serbia, St. Arsenius, this historic church was built in the 1870s and consecrated on January 6, 1910. The facade of Saint Arsenius the Archbishop of Serbia Church Architecturally, the church featured two main domes: a conical belfry characteristic of Armenian design and an onion-shaped dome. However, in the 1930s, these domes were demolished, and the building was repurposed as a shelter for orphans, a cattle stable, and eventually a cinema club. Inside Saint Arsenius church Since the 2010s, the church has been undergoing a slow but steady renovation, funded by contributions from believers and benefactors. In particular, I noticed that the roof has undergone temporary renovations. Despite its turbulent history, the Church of Saint Arsenius remains a significant spiritual and cultural landmark in Armenia. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia Previous Next

Old Khot, also known as Hin Khot, is often referred to as the Armenian Machu Picchu due to its resemblance to the Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. Discover this mysterious ghost village hiking along Vorotan Gorge. < Back Abandoned Village Old Khot - Armenian Machu Picchu Old Khot, also known as Hin Khot, is often referred to as the Armenian Machu Picchu due to its resemblance to the Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. Discover this mysterious ghost village hiking along Vorotan Gorge. Old Khot is perched on the cliffs of the Vorotan River at an altitude of 1500 meters above the sea level. The name of the settlement is derived from the Armenian word "Khot," meaning herbage or grass. According to Heinrich Hübschmann, this name refers to the lush gardens surrounding Old Khot, known as Khotaget, where "Khot" signifies grass, and "get" signifies river. Old Khot as seen from a distance The history of Old Khot dates back to the 2nd century BC when it was initially inhabited by cave-dwelling people who later constructed houses on the rocks. In the 11th century, Armenian historian Stepanos Orbelian mentioned it as a tax-paying settlement under the jurisdiction of the Tatev Monastery. A well preserved house in Old Khot, even the roof was intact The village boasted a large garden known as Khotaget, a castle named Khanapa, and a monastery named Khoti Vank, dedicated to St. Astvatsatsin. Old Khot earned the name Zangezur, meaning "land of bells," owing to its renowned bells. In the 12th century, Old Khot had another monastery called Mrgadzori Khach, constructed by an Armenian woman who had escaped from a Persian harem. This monastery displayed a unique architectural and artistic style, blending Armenian and Persian influences. A church in Old Khot Social changes of the 20th century led to the abandonment of Old Khot. Instead of improving infrastructure with a proper road, new pipeline, and enhanced electricity facilities, authorities decided to relocate the village to a new settlement on a plateau. In the 1960s-70s, inhabitants were moved to higher ground closer to the main road and utility on flatter land, a trend observed in many villages, including Khndzoresk. The villagers resettled in a new village called Khot on the hillside above Old Khot, leaving their belongings and memories behind. Old Khot transformed into a ghost town, yet it continues to attract visitors for its scenic views and historical significance. Explorers can wander through its ruins, marvel at its architecture and art, and witness the intersection of nature and history. Me exploring Old Khot Old Khot is a hidden gem in Armenia, providing insights into its past and present. It is a realm where nature intertwines with history, and mystery harmonizes with beauty, inviting those who have a passion for Armenia or an eagerness to uncover something novel. The site retains its enchantment, featuring stone houses, gardens, churches, and caves. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia Previous Next

The Yerevan Cascade is a monumental architectural landmark situated in the heart of Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. This massive structure, resembling a giant staircase, stands out as one of the city's main tourist attractions. < Back Yerevan Cascade - A Stairway to Art and History The Yerevan Cascade is a monumental architectural landmark situated in the heart of Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. This massive structure, resembling a giant staircase, stands out as one of the city's main tourist attractions. Architect Alexander Tamanyan conceived the idea for the Cascade complex, aiming to connect the northern and central parts of the city—the historical residential and cultural centers—by creating an expansive green space adorned with waterfalls and gardens that would "enthrone" from one of the highest hills in the city. Although the project was initially forgotten, it was revived in the late 1970s by Yerevan's chief architect, Jim Torosyan. Kiwi by Peter Wojtuk Construction of Torosyan's Cascade complex began in the 1980s during the Soviet era but faced interruptions due to the earthquake in Armenia in 1988 and the subsequent collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. As Armenia transitioned to independence and democracy, the country also grappled with severe economic challenges, leading the Cascade complex to remain a neglected relic of the Soviet era for over a decade. In 2002, philanthropist Gerard L. Cafesjian, in collaboration with the Yerevan Municipality and the Government of the Republic of Armenia, initiated the restoration of the Cascade Complex. Over the following seven years, extensive renovations transformed much of the memorial into an arts center, now bearing the legacy of its founder, Gerard L. Cafesjian. The entrance to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts The structure is constructed from white travertine stone, chosen for its ample availability suitable for such a large-scale construction. The Cascade comprises five hillside terraces connected by 572 steps. The building stands 302 meters high (excluding the 40th Anniversary of Soviet Armenia monument), spans 50 meters in width, and encompasses a total area of 13 hectares with a 15-degree slope. Interactive Learning Center (Library) and Museum Store in Cafesjian Art Center Established in 2009, the museum has gained significant popularity in Yerevan. The entire architectural heritage site serves as an open-air museum of modern art, nestled within lush green surroundings. Within the Cascade complex, the Cafesjian Center for the Arts is situated, hosting exhibition halls for both permanent and temporary displays. These exhibitions showcase outstanding examples of contemporary art and sculpture. The museum is divided into two distinct sections: the external "Cafesjian Sculpture Garden" and the internal "Cafesjian Art Galleries." In the "Khanjian" hall, there is a monumental mural by the renowned Armenian painter Grigor Khanjyan (1926-2000). The three main scenes of this monument, commissioned during the Soviet period and left unfinished after Khanjyan's death, depict the key pages of Armenian history: "Armenian Alphabet" (1992-1994), "Vardanak" (1995-1998), and "Reborn Armenia" (1998-2000). The majority of the museum's collection is derived from the private collection of the founder, Gerard L. Cafesjian. With over 5,000 works, the center exhibits one of the most comprehensive glass collections globally, highlighting the groundbreaking works of the Czech couple Stanislav Libenský and Jaroslava Brychtová, who revolutionized the use of glass as an artistic medium. Other noteworthy glass artists in the collection include Dale Chihuly, Bohumil Elias, Pavel Hlava, Jaromír Rybák, Ivana Šrámková, Bertil Vallien, Lino Tagliapietra, Mark Peiser, and Hiroshi Yamano. The collection also boasts significant holdings in drawing, painting, and sculpture by numerous influential artists, including Fernando Botero, Arshile Gorky, Jennifer Bartlett, Lynn Chadwick, Barry Flanagan, Jaume Plensa, and François-Xavier Lalanne. The Cafesjian Sculpture Garden, located in the front gardens of the cascade, features numerous exhibited sculptures. Additionally, sculptures adorn the garden terrace along the expansive steps and fountains ascending from the Tamanyan street gardens. With unobstructed walkways, expansive vistas, and formal garden areas, this space is purposefully designed to provide a modern setting for large-scale sculptures by internationally recognized artists. The theme of the national epic poem has always been of special interest to sculptor Artashes Hovsepyan. The artist together with four masters worked for four years in the salon that today bears the name "Sasuntsi David". The "Cafesjian Art Galleries" encompass Gallery One, Khanjyan Gallery, Eagle Gallery, Sasuntsi Davit Garden Gallery, Star Landing, and the Special Events Auditorium situated beneath the exterior staircase and fountains. These galleries house an extensive collection of glass artwork showcased in various permanent displays and temporary exhibitions. Khanjyan Gallery is home to the large scale mural triptych "History of Armenia" by renowned Soviet and Armenian painter Grigor Khanjyan. Sasuntsi Davit Gallery includes basrelief by Artashes Hovsepyan depicting scenes from the Armenian epic fable David of Sasun. In conclusion, the Yerevan Cascade is more than just a staircase. It’s a symbol of Yerevan’s rich history, a hub for art lovers, and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. The Garden of Cafesjian Sculptures is always open. Escalator Hall: Every day, from 08:00 to 20:00. Exhibition Halls, Museum Shop, and Visitor Center: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, from 10:00 to 20:00. The center is closed on public holidays. A visit to Yerevan Cascade Complex is free. Gallery You May Also Like Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent” Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Molokans in Armenia

Blue Mosque stands as a significant landmark in Yerevan, attracting both Muslim pilgrims and tourists. Built in 1766 by Sardar Husein-Ali Khan, it replaced an earlier mosque destroyed in a 1679 earthquake. Despite Soviet-era threats, it was preserved and now serves as a place of worship after reconstruction efforts in the 1990s and 2000s. < Back Blue Mosque in Yerevan Blue Mosque stands as a significant landmark in Yerevan, attracting both Muslim pilgrims and tourists. Built in 1766 by Sardar Husein-Ali Khan, it replaced an earlier mosque destroyed in a 1679 earthquake. Despite Soviet-era threats, it was preserved and now serves as a place of worship after reconstruction efforts in the 1990s and 2000s. The Blue Mosque was built by Sardar Husein-Ali Khan of Yerevan in 1766 (1179 AH). There is an opinion that the mosque of Def Sultan stood on the site of the mosque before that, which was destroyed during the great earthquake of Yerevan in 1679, and almost a century later, this new one was built on the spot by Hussein-Ali Khan Qajar. The Blue Mosque boasts a spacious and well-maintained garden, offering visitors a delightful spot to relax and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere The Blue Mosque is part of the series of Shia mosques in Yerevan, distinguished as not only the most beautiful and magnificent but also the largest. Covering a total area of 7000 m2, the complex comprises a spacious quadrangular building crafted of bricks, featuring a tall minaret and a broad-sided dome. The dome and sections of the walls are adorned with blue terracotta. During the mass demolition of religious structures in the Soviet era, the Blue Mosque was saved through the efforts of Armenian intellectuals like Yeghishe Charents, who vehemently opposed its destruction. The mosque was saved and for a long time the museum of Natural History and Yerevan History museum were located in here. After the independence of Armenia, at the request of the Iranian government, the mosque was handed over to Iran as a place of prayer. It was reconstructed in 1994-1998 by the efforts of the Iranian government. In 2006, the dome was repaired. Gallery You May Also Like Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent” Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Molokans in Armenia

I have visited many libraries in Armenia, but this one impressed me the most with its extensive collection of technical literature. Unfortunately, the Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia will be closed due to a highly criticized decision by the Armenian Government. Read more in the article. < Back The Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia I have visited many libraries in Armenia, but this one impressed me the most with its extensive collection of technical literature. Unfortunately, the Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia will be closed due to a highly criticized decision by the Armenian Government. Read more in the article. The Republican Scientific and Technical Library of Armenia, founded in 1957, initially operated on Moskovyan Street. In 1982, it moved to 49/1 Komitas Avenue. The library's mission is to collect scientific, technical, and patent resources, and provide scientific and technical information and library services. Three floors of the library were full of bookshelves, with each floor divided into two levels The library's collection includes approximately 22 million copies of literature, including: Books: deposited manuscripts and dissertation abstracts Periodicals: magazines, press journals, informative bulletins, analytical bulletins, and official bulletins covering the RA legal framework Patents: copyright certificates, descriptions of inventions and utility models, trademarks, industrial design bulletins, and press publications Industrial catalogs: brand catalogs and price lists Normative-technical documents (standards): state standards, industry standards, specifications, magazines, and collections on standards Video tapes Cassettes Optical drives (CD, DVD) ------------------ Unfortunately, On May 2, the Government of the Republic of Armenia decided in a closed session to expropriate the buildings of the Scientific and Technical Library. The closure of the library is presented in the context of systemic reforms and the purposeful and effective use of budget funds. Branches of the Scientific and Technical Library in Gyumri, Kapan, Hrazdan, and Vanadzor will also be closed. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia 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. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia Previous Next

Armenia, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, is home to a geological wonder known as the Symphony of Stones. Nestled within the picturesque Garni Gorge, this natural hexagonal basalt formation captivates visitors with its unique look. In this article, you will learn how basalt columns are formed and discover some of the most famous places with columnar jointed volcanics. < Back Symphony of Stones in Garni Gorge Armenia, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, is home to a geological wonder known as the Symphony of Stones. Nestled within the picturesque Garni Gorge, this natural hexagonal basalt formation captivates visitors with its unique look. In this article, you will learn how basalt columns are formed and discover some of the most famous places with columnar jointed volcanics. The Symphony of Stones is a collection of basalt columns that resemble towering organ pipes, hence its poetic name. These hexagonal basalt formations were formed millions of years ago during volcanic activity when lava rapidly cooled and solidified. Over time, natural forces such as wind and water eroded the softer rock around the basalt columns, sculpting them into the striking formations seen today. Garni gorge and the Symphony of Stones While unique to Armenia, similar basalt column formations can be found around the world. Famous examples include Fingal's Cave in Scotland, Devil's Tower in the USA, Svartifoss waterfall in Iceland, and Giant's Causeway on the north coast of Northern Ireland. These natural wonders continue to inspire awe and curiosity, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe to witness nature's artistic prowess. Close to the Symphony of Stones in Garni Gorge, visitors can also see the Azat Bridge, built between the 11th and 12th centuries from black tuff. The single-vaulted bridge has pillars spaced about 10 meters apart. Restoration work began in 2006, was interrupted, and resumed in 2012, finally completing in 2013. However, despite restoration efforts, the bridge lost its historic appearance. Azat bridge in the Garni gorge As Armenia continues to embrace sustainable tourism practices, the Symphony of Stones remains a jewel in its natural crown, beckoning visitors to listen to its ancient melody and marvel at the harmonious interplay of geological forces. Photographers find ample opportunities to capture the interplay of light and shadow on the columns, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape is bathed in warm hues. Gallery You May Also Like Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent” Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Molokans in Armenia

This article offers a brief overview of Armenian Lavash, a staple in Armenian households for centuries and a symbol of Armenian identity. Today, it continues to attract the interest of foreigners keen on the traditions associated with this iconic bread. < Back Armenian Lavash Bread This article offers a brief overview of Armenian Lavash, a staple in Armenian households for centuries and a symbol of Armenian identity. Today, it continues to attract the interest of foreigners keen on the traditions associated with this iconic bread. Lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread, holds a significant place in the country's culinary heritage. It is a flat, very thin wafer, typically 2-5 millimeters thick and round-shaped. It generally adheres to a standard size, with a typical length of 90-110 centimeters, a width of 40-50 centimeters, and a weight not exceeding 250 grams This unleavened flatbread is crafted from simple ingredients: flour, water, and salt. The dough is rolled thin and stretched over a cushion before being baked in a clay tandoor, resulting in a thin, flexible bread with a delightful crispiness. Lavash is individually spread out until it cools down, after which it is stacked on top of each other, often arranged in 8-10 rows. When exposed to open air, lavash dries rapidly and can remain dry for an extended period, surpassing one year. AI generated image of Armenian woman baking lavash Lavash Bread Recipe: Crafting the perfect Lavash bread at home requires just a few ingredients and some patience. Here's a basic recipe: Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup water Instructions: Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, kneading the dough until it becomes smooth. Divide the dough into small balls and let them rest for about 30 minutes. Roll out each ball into a thin sheet. Bake on a hot griddle or in a preheated oven until it puffs up and turns golden. But for a perfect lavash one of course needs a clay tandoor! Lavash Wraps: Lavash's versatility extends beyond being a standalone bread. It serves as an ideal wrap, bringing together lunchtime classics such as turkey cold cuts, goat cheese, and a vibrant blend of veggies and greens in Lavash bread. Whether crafting a Mediterranean-inspired wrap with fresh vegetables, hummus, and feta, or opting for a savory wrap with grilled meats and tzatziki, Lavash provides a delicious and pliable canvas for culinary creativity. Eduard Artsrunyan. Fresh Lavash (1971) Women baking or carrying lavash is a common theme that has inspired Armenian painters. Lavash as a symbol Lavash is considered a symbol of family and abundance in Armenia. Traditionally, during weddings, the groom's mother throws lavash on the shoulders of the newlyweds, symbolizing the wish that the young couple will always live in abundance and togetherness. Lavash Bread Calories: A 100-gram serving of Armenian Lavash bread contains approximately 281 calories. Where to Buy Lavash Bread: Armenian Lavash bread is readily available at Armenian, Middle Eastern, and Persian markets throughout the country. Gallery You May Also Like Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent” Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Molokans in Armenia

Explore the historic Yerevan Children's Railway nestled in the picturesque Hrazdan gorge. Established in 1937, this 2.1 km railway features iconic stations like "Motherland" and "Pioneer." Discover its rich history, from its inception to present-day plans for renovation and revitalization. Experience a piece of Armenia's railway heritage. < Back The abandoned Children's Railway in Yerevan Explore the historic Yerevan Children's Railway nestled in the picturesque Hrazdan gorge. Established in 1937, this 2.1 km railway features iconic stations like "Motherland" and "Pioneer." Discover its rich history, from its inception to present-day plans for renovation and revitalization. Experience a piece of Armenia's railway heritage. Yerevan Children's Railway, located in the Kentron community of Yerevan, stretches 2.1 km along the Hrazdan gorge. Stations include "Motherland," "Pioneer," and "Happiness." Through the thick trees I can see the marvelous railway station building In 1935, the idea of creating a children's railway in Yerevan was proposed by the Minister of Railway Transport of Armenia, Babken Amatuni, and the first secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Agassi Khanjian. In 1935, the USSR state plan included the construction of the Yerevan children's railway in the 1936 annual plan. On April 22, 1936, in the city park named after Abovyan, Aghasi Khanjyan and Babken Amatuni laid the foundation stone for the "Lighthouse" station, later renamed "Motherland" station. These stained glass windows are perfect for photography Scheduled to open on November 7, 1937, the day of the October Revolution victory, the children's railway officially opened earlier on July 6, 1937, thanks to the efforts of Babken Amatun, the Minister of Railway Transport of Armenia. The chief architect of the children's railway park was Mikael Mazmanyan. The former wooden railway station building was replaced in the late 1940s by a stone building designed by architect Babken S. Hakobyan, with the last tower designed by architect Gohar Grigoryan. Another look at the railway station building In 1937, locomotive 159-434 and three passenger cars donated by the Podolsk locomotive factory were put into operation. The steam locomotive from 1937, no longer operational, is considered Armenia's oldest. It is located at the "Motherland" station. In 1959, the railway received two PAFAWAG metal passenger cars, and in 1971, the TU2-116 locomotive. Until the end of its working days, the Children's Railway operated with a TU2-096 locomotive and two passenger cars produced by the Kaluga machine-building plant in 1957. The tunnel from the "Happiness" to the "Pioneer" station was built in 1956, spanning 45 m in length. I loved these stained glass windows Previously, the station building housed private rooms for the station master and guard, a telegraph office, a health room, and a cash register. The playground featured pools of water, fountains, a reading room, a dance and sports field, a game room, kiosks, and a buffet. A statue of Stalin once stood on the hill leading from the playground to the station. Currently, the Children's Railway territory is privatized. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia 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 Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent” Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Molokans in Armenia

Within the ruins of this Soviet factory lie hidden artworks, which you will discover in this article as we embark on an exploration! < Back This abandoned factory once produced electrical components Within the ruins of this Soviet factory lie hidden artworks, which you will discover in this article as we embark on an exploration! Unfortunately, there is no information available online about this Soviet-era factory, now left in decay. Even locals seemed reluctant to share details, perhaps due to their youth or lack of knowledge. However, I did learn that during Soviet times, the factory manufactured electrical components. Deep exploration uncovered remnants of the past, including numerous boxes of resistors, now rendered obsolete by advancements in technology. A bas-relief by postwar & contemporary artist Benik Petrosyan Adorning the facade of the building is a marvelous bas-relief by Armenian sculptor Benik Petrosyan. Unfortunately, it is now obscured by vegetation, making it difficult to appreciate. Capturing a clear photo proved to be quite a challenge. Inside the building, I discovered two more bas-reliefs. Резистор - Сделано в СССР. Resistor Made in USSR Another striking piece of art within this abandoned factory is a stained glass window, particularly impressive when viewed from outside. The name of the author is unknown. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia Previous Next

Once again, I find myself on an urbex mission. This article serves as a brief reflection on my exploration of the abandoned thermal power plant. It marked my inaugural experience inside such a structure, leaving me profoundly impressed. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Thermal Power Plant Once again, I find myself on an urbex mission. This article serves as a brief reflection on my exploration of the abandoned thermal power plant. It marked my inaugural experience inside such a structure, leaving me profoundly impressed. The Yerevan Thermal Power Plant (CHP) was commissioned in 1963 and initially operated on coal. Following subsequent modernizations, it transitioned to natural gas, rendering the old cooling towers obsolete. The cooling towers are creating an apocalyptic backdrop Currently, only four cooling towers remain, as two were dismantled between 2011 and 2012. Constructed from reinforced concrete with wooden decking, these cooling towers possess an epic aesthetic that appeals to urban photographers. A look at the sky while standing inside the cooling tower A rusty staircase provides access to the upper levels. As of spring 2024, the entrances to 3 cooling towers were locked, with only one tower accessible. Nearby structures, potentially control rooms, were not explored during this visit. Although there is security at the checkpoint, fortunately, there was no encounter with them on that particular day. Project Gallery You May Also Like Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva Urban Explorer Tour with a French Photographer This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Lenin in Armenia Previous Next