Tire Factory Health Center
Built in 1970 above the dramatic Hrazdan Gorge near Arzni, the former Tire Factory Health Center is one of Armenia’s examples of Soviet modernist resort architecture. The complex combines bold architectural design with the social welfare ideals of the Soviet era.
The health center opened in 1970. Unlike tourist hotels or holiday resorts, it functioned as a prophylactorium: a preventive medical rest center reserved for workers of the Yerevan Tire Factory.
During the Soviet period, large industrial enterprises often maintained their own healthcare and recreation facilities. Employees could spend several weeks in these institutions to recover from work-related fatigue, undergo medical treatments, and improve their overall health.
The choice of Arzni as the location was no coincidence; the town had become one of Armenia’s most important health resorts. The area was famous throughout the Soviet Union for its mineral waters, therapeutic baths, mountain climate therapy, and rehabilitation treatments.
Architecture Above the Gorge
The building was designed by Armenian architect Makabeh Manuelyan, a notable figure in Soviet Armenian modernism. Manuelyan would later become known for designing the famous observation deck overlooking Lake Sevan.
The health center occupies a spectacular position on the edge of the canyon. From a distance, the structure resembles a giant eagle extending its wings over the valley. The three-story complex was designed to accommodate up to 200 guests.
Medical and Recreational Facilities
The health center combined accommodation with extensive medical and cultural facilities. The complex featured meeting rooms, a theater hall, and a library. Such amenities were common in Soviet sanatoria, which were intended to provide both physical recovery and cultural enrichment.
Decline After the Soviet Collapse
The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 dramatically changed the future of many enterprise-owned health resorts. State funding disappeared, industrial production declined, and many factories could no longer support their welfare infrastructure. Like numerous Soviet sanatoria across Armenia, the Tire Factory Health Center gradually fell into decline.
Over time, sections of the complex were repurposed for commercial use. For some years it was known as the LussiMa Hotel. It was sold to an investor in 2026 and is guarded and alarmed, waiting for a new use.
