Soviet & Brutalist Architecture in Armenia
Soviet & Brutalist Architecture in Armenia
Brutalism sparks strong opinions. Characterized by its raw, unadorned, and often imposing concrete structures, this architectural style first emerged in the mid-20th century and subsequently spread throughout the Soviet Union.
Although divisive in its aesthetic appeal, brutalism left a significant mark on the architectural landscape in Armenia. Iconic examples can be found throughout the whole country. Whether you find them bold and honest or austere or oppressive, here are some of the top brutalist buildings to add to your bucket list.
Cultural spaces
Brutalism often emphasizes geometric shapes and bold, sculptural forms, with an emphasis on functionality and simplicity.
Cinema Rossiya, located at the crossroads of Tigran Mets Ave. and Agatangeghos St., is a prime example. This massive movie theatre once housed up to 2500 film-goers at a time. Now, it has been repurposed as a shopping mall. Observing the building from across the street, viewers might notice how it resembles Mt. Ararat.
The National Centre of Chamber Music, located at 1 Isahakyan St., sits in the park near Yeritasardakan metro station. The hall was designed to mirror the shape of an Armenian church with a three-nave basilica.
Cascade, with its beautiful folk art-inspired reliefs and 572 stairs, is probably the most visited and photographed brutalist monument in Yerevan. It represents a marriage of the old and new styles of architecture.
Zvartnots Airport
Upon landing, tourists to Armenia are greeted with one of the most beloved examples of brutalism – Zvartnots International Airport. Its Terminal 1, which functioned from 1971 to 2011, was once a posh hub for those traveling to and from Armenia. Nowadays, travelers only pass through Terminal 2. While derelict, Terminal 1 still remains one of the most classic specimens of Soviet brutalism.
Monuments
At the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, a 44-meter tall obelisk is surrounded by 12 slabs encircling a perpetual flame. These slabs symbolize the 12 provinces of Armenia lost during the genocide, while the obelisk signifies national rebirth. The eternal flame serves as a solemn tribute to the lives lost.
Metro stations
Both the Yeritasardakan and Republic Square stations of the Yerevan metro are worth exploring. Tubular in its shape, the former resembles a telescope of sorts. Republic Square, which was called Lenin Square during Soviet times, features more adornments and a flower-shaped fountain.
Sports Complexes
The Hrazdan Stadium was built in the 1960s as part of a series of projects initiated in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the sovietisation of Armenia. It was the first two-story stadium to be erected in the Soviet Union. Sports events are still held here.
The Karen Demirchyan Sport/Concert Complex, which houses up to 6,000 people for events, expos and competitions, was made to resemble a bird opening its wings. The architects won the USSR State Prize in 1987 for their unique design.
Educational Institutions
Brutalist buildings typically feature massive, monolithic forms with exposed concrete surfaces, showcasing the material's texture and structural elements. Both the Yerevan Polytechnic University and Institute of Communication are reflective of these facets. They are known in the Yerevan cityscape for their blocky, yet almost dizzying, geometric facades.
Sevan Writer’s House
Tucked away on the Sevan peninsula close to Sevanavank Monastery, the Sevan Writer’s House is iconic. Designed in the 1930s, it was highly modernist for its time. The building has a no-frills, futuristic style and balances on one concrete leg. Once a peaceful retreat for Soviet-era creatives, it still operates as a hotel from May to October. Be aware – the space boasts few amenities for travelers, but the panoramic views of the lake make up for the simple accommodations.
Yerevan Botanical Gardens
A botanical and research centre, the gardens are home to many plants, including some endangered ones. Don’t miss the distinctively shaped greenhouse on the grounds – a romantic relic of the past with its overgrown vines and flora. You can explore only part of the inside space; however, it’s also delightful to walk around its perimeter and peek inside at the plants through the glass panes.
Residential Spaces
Ask any local about the “kissing” buildings, and they’ll know exactly what you mean. Although most of the famous examples of brutalist architecture are public sector spaces, this example is residential. Top-heavy, the boxy “Northern Ray Towers” apartment buildings lean in toward each other as if they were kissing, but they don’t touch. Built in 2013, significantly after the fall of the Soviet era, they represent the neo-brutalist school.
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In every corner of Armenia, from monumental landmarks to hidden gems, brutalist architecture reflects the bygone Soviet era and bold visions of its architects. Whether admired or criticized, their structures evoke a sense of awe and curiosity, inviting exploration and appreciation.
Published on October 09, 2024