Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral (Chicago) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
The Annunciation Cathedral
Religion
Affiliation	Greek Orthodox
Status	Active
Location
Location	Chicago, Illinois
Architecture
Architectural type	Cathedral
Architectural style	Byzantine
Completed	1910
Dome(s)	1
Website
https://annunciationcathedralchicago.org/

The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral is a special church located in Chicago, Illinois. It belongs to the Greek Orthodox faith. This cathedral is the main church, or mother church, for the Greek Orthodox community in Chicago. About 400 families are currently members of this church.

History of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral

A special plaque at the cathedral.

The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral was started in 1892. It was founded by Greek immigrants who came from Laconia and the Greek Islands. These families wanted a place to worship and keep their traditions.

In 1909, the Greek Orthodox community bought the land for the church. They paid $18,000 for the city lot. The cathedral was finished in 1910. The total cost to build it was about $100,000.

The church was designed to look like an ancient cathedral in Athens, Greece. It is the oldest building in Chicago that still stands in the Byzantine church style.

During the Great Depression, many people faced tough times. The Greek Orthodox community worked together to save their churches. They held many fundraising events. This helped prevent financial problems. Also during this time, the entire church building was moved. It was lifted from its foundation and shifted back. This was done to make room for the widening of LaSalle Street.

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