Abastan is a semi-nomadic intentional community, living and working in a large old Soviet schoolhouse that was turned into a factory for a while before the collapse of the USSR. It is set in Tumanyan, a beautiful town in the stunnning Debed Gorge of northern Armenia. With a cute town square, the central area of the town is primarily full of small duplexes with nice little gardens, and stairs connecting the streets. The town is built along the Debed River, with omnipresent views of vertical cliffs across the river, with a stunning semi-ruined monastery halfway up the cliffs.
Abastan was formed in 2022, and saw well over 100 short term residents in that year, as well as a couple of dozen more permanent residents who stayed full time, through the winter in the town. Workshops, events, personal art projects and community participation are all important themes of Abastan. New calls for participant residents, workshop attendees, and event notices are posted on the website.
While space is provided in the main complex for accepted residents to live, those with children or other needs often rent homes or apartments in the community for themselves.
To create an inspiring environment to focus and for creativity in Tumanyan which can be shared with the world
There are occasional calls for participants. Aside from that people can message and indicate interest.
Everyone is welcome to stop by Tumanyan at any time and visit the Flying Samovar Cafe to say hi or track down whoever is in town, but checking with us ahead of time is the only way to be certain of availability. Those interested in joining are encouraged to visit Tumanyan at any time, and spend a few days there getting to know the town and see if they see it as a good fit for them.
A few people (not elected by the broader community) make the major decisions.
Generally seek agreement, but have backup methods when consensus isn’t reached.
Power and responsibility are shared relatively equally among members.
Members maintain separate personal finances with minimal sharing.
Labor: Encouraged or suggested
Members with pre-existing debt: allowed
Common House, Garden(s), Library, Workshop, Outbuilding(s), Large Scale Kitchen, Stage or Auditorium, Swingsets & play areas, Internet
Smaller municipalities with local services but rural character.
Shared living spaces with private bedrooms/bathrooms and communal
kitchens, dining, and social areas.
A residential project: people live here as their primary home.
An institution, business, network, or project that isn’t a residence (e.g. a learning center, farm, or network with no one living there full-time).
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