Sevan Writers House

Location: Situated above Lake Sevan and near Sevanavank Monastery, offering serene, scenic views. A short walk to the lake and monastery, with a quiet atmosphere distinct from busy lakeside areas.

A little bit of history Perched on the shores of Lake Sevan, the Sevan Writers’ Rest House is one of the brightest examples of Soviet modernist architecture. The complex consists of two buildings — the Residence Hall and the Lounge Building — built at different times. The first plans for the Residence Hall date to 1932, and archival records show it was completed in 1935. The Great Purge did not spare its architects. In 1937, Kochar and Mazmanian were arrested at their workplace. Mazmanian was rehabilitated in 1954, and Kochar returned to Yerevan only in 1960, later becoming Chief Architect at the Yerevanproject Institute. Both eventually rejoined the architectural scene of the post-Stalinist era. In 1963, Kochar was tasked with redesigning and expanding the Sevan Resort. His project added an extra floor to the Residence Hall, creating a wide terrace that continued the original concept seamlessly. During the resort's reconstruction, Kochar also designed and built the new Lounge Building. Stylistically, the new building contrasted with the Residence Hall, but both of them formed a harmonious ensemble in combination with the natural landscape and incorporated the view of the medieval architecture of Sevan Monastery churches on the top of the peninsula. After the reconstruction, the Lounge and the Residence Hall of Sevan Writers House became one of the most iconic buildings of post-Stalin modernist Soviet Architecture. My thoughts Before visiting this place, there are a few things you should know. The complex is closed during the non-touristic season, roughly from November to April. That said, even when it’s closed, I strongly recommend stopping by—the exterior alone is worth the visit. It is one of the most iconic Soviet-era modernist buildings, not only in Armenia but across the post-Soviet space. When the complex is open, visitors can see the interior, including the restaurant hall. However, keep in mind that the management does not treat the site as a museum, and the manager is often not very enthusiastic about people visiting only to look around. For this reason, during my tours I always encourage clients to at least stop for a coffee to feel the atmosphere. The fish barbecue, made from fish from nearby Lake Sevan, is also good. Those considering an overnight stay should know that the complex has not been renovated for decades. Do not expect modern comfort or good value for the price. People stay here for the vibe, atmosphere, and history, not for luxury. In my case, during architecture and urbex tours, I always include this place...

if you are open to it, this place is actually marvelous! Yes, it is not updated and may lack some features of modern hotels but my daughter and I loved our stay here, seriously. love the decor and the five flights of stairs and the little hiking trails to the church behind the hotel. The cafe room is beautifully lit in the morning and I could easily imagine the conversations among writers and intellectuals that happened here. We had a twin bed room and honestly the beds were comfortable and the room was warm ( evenings are cool here!) Be open to the experience and don’t compare it and this will be a stay you remember. Do take a dip in the lake but bring flip flops or water shoes as the bottom is rocky.