At the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side stands the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, a historic landmark and house of worship that has served as a cultural anchor for the Greek-American community in New York. It is one of the most cherished architectural gems, boasting stunning Neo-Byzantine architecture and intricate artwork.
This year, the episcopal seat of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America will transform into a music lover’s dream as Candlelight brings new tribute concerts illuminated by countless candles.
Why is the venue important to the city?
The Archdiocesan Cathedral is the largest Eastern Orthodox church in the Western Hemisphere and the seat of the Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. Built in the 1930s, it showcases Byzantine mosaics by Sirio Tonelli, hand-painted iconography, Botticino marble, and imported Italian stained glass that you won’t see in other NYC landmarks. Many of the icons were made using traditional, centuries-old techniques involving mineral pigments and gold leaf. All these beautiful features make stepping inside feel like entering another era.
What can you do at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity?
Besides its architectural allure, Holy Trinity has also become a vibrant hub for events that draw New Yorkers well beyond the Orthodox Community. Its acoustics have made it a sought-after venue for live music performances so the cathedral regularly hosts choral and Byzantine music performances. On top of that, this season, you can also catch captivating Candlelight concerts that pay tribute to music’s greatest artists, from Mozart and Vivaldi to The Beatles, in a setting illuminated solely by thousands of candles.
Curious Facts
The cornerstone was laid by Eleanor Roosevelt on September 14, 1931
Social justice advocate and wife of then Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt laid the cornerstone for the current building, designed by architects Kerr Rainsford, John A. Thompson, and Gerald A. Holmes. Within five months the building was completed and Holy Trinity moved to its present location on March 4, 1932.
Links to celebrities
Celebrated opera singer Maria Callas (“La Divina”) was baptized at the church in 1926. Additionally, television host and political commentator George Stephanopoulos and comedian Alexandra Wentworth were married there in 2001.
The cathedral holds relics of Saint Nicholas of Myra
St Nicholas of Myra (270-343) was an early Christian bishop of Greek descent during the time of the Roman Empire. He is the patron saint of sailors, merchants, archers, repentant thieves, children, brewers, pawnbrokers, unmarried people, and students in various countries around Europe.
The iconography on the dome was created by Georgios Gliatas
Georgios Gliatas was an artist, an iconographer, and a master painter hired to paint the cathedral’s dome and pendantives and transform the already gorgeous Byzantine-style structure into something even grander. He was a student of the renowned 20th-century iconographer, Fotis Kontoglou.
Where is the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and how to get there?
The cathedral is located on 319 – 337 East 74th Street on the Upper East Side. You can easily reach it by taking the Q train (Second Avenue Subway line) at the 72nd Street Station. The cathedral does not have parking but limited on-street parking is available.
What is the architectural style?
The church’s style is Byzantine Moderne or Neo-Byzantine, with a Romanesque Revival red brick and limestone exterior.
Is it open to the public?
Yes, it is open daily 9am-5pm Monday through Friday, but worship hours may vary. Sunday Service hours are 8:30 am for Orthros (Matins) and 10 am for Divine Liturgy.
What is the best way to see the interior?
Attending a divine service or a special event like a Candlelight Concert is often the best way to experience the architecture and atmosphere. It’s always best to check event schedules in advance and reach out to the main offices for more questions.
Nearby venues in NYC
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity is only a short walk from The MET, Breuer Building, The Frick Collection and Central Park. It is only one of the many striking Candlelight venues offering live music performances for music lovers.