The sun has been an irreplaceable helper of architects in all ages. There is even a term "solar architecture", which is the construction of buildings with a special approach, taking into account the possibilities of solar energy. In the past, they mainly took into account the correct location of the building, the choice of materials that accumulate heat or reflect the sun rays, but now the first thing they consider is suitability for modern technologies.

Ancient Greeks were first to practice passive solar architecture. They built unique houses using stone that retained heat for a long time. The ancient Romans, who used transparent materials in their windows, were not left behind either. And the Scandinavians used black basalt to "capture" the sun rays.

Along with the principles that have been considered in construction for centuries, the real breakthrough in solar architecture is made with the emergence of the solar panels. In the early 1970s, the world's first solar-powered homes appeared.

Greenhouses and solar panels, parabolas. These and other elements are now becoming inseparable parts of newly constructed buildings.

For example, a solar parabola is capable of providing enough heat to melt a diamond by concentrating solar energy. Photothermal modules are widely used in Mediterranean countries, thanks to which sunlight is converted into thermal energy to heat water.

The only minus of solar architecture is perhaps the high cost. However, even critics admit that these costs are paid off over time.

In Armenian architecture, there were vertical sundials on the southern walls of temples and monasteries. In general, they were the first means known to mankind, which made it possible to know what time of day it is. The oldest sundial in Armenia dates back to the 7th century. It is the clock found in the Zvartnots temple. Sundials can be seen on the southern walls of almost all Armenian churches. They were made up to the 15th century.

Now let's look at the examples of passive and active technologies of solar architecture in the world.

1․"Endesa" pavilion, Barcelona

This pavilion is made of "solar bricks", which protect the interior of the building and at the same time collect solar energy for their own use.

2․ “Kathleen Kilgour Centre, Tauranga by Wingate + Farquhar.”

The roof of the building, which resembles the teeth of a saw, increases the efficiency of the solar modules installed on the surface of 450 square meters.

3․ "INES", French National Institute of Solar Energy

At least forty percent of the energy of the building comes from solar energy.

4․  Center for Nature and Environmental Studies, The Netherlands, Bureau SLA

The building is equipped with a passive solar heating and cooling system known as the "Trombe" wall. Such structures are covered with a special absorbent material or are just painted black.։

5․ Science Pyramid at the Denver Botanic Garden. "BURKETT DESIGN"

The solar system, consisting of 30 hexagonal panels, stores energy for their own use.

6․ Masdar Institute, Abu Dhabi

A solar plant powers the building and gives the surplus energy to Abu Dhabi's electricity grid.: