Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Salt Lake City

The Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, is a distinguished Greek Orthodox cathedral located in Salt Lake City. Established in 1923, it was recognized for its historical significance by being added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox community in Salt Lake City was founded in 1905, becoming the 14th Greek Orthodox parish in the U.S. and the oldest between the Mississippi River and the Pacific coast. The original Holy Trinity Church was inaugurated on October 29, 1905, serving Greek, Serbian, and Russian immigrants in the city’s diverse immigrant district.

By 1920, the growing congregation required a larger space. The original site was sold, and a new location at Third South and Second West was acquired. The cornerstone for the new Holy Trinity Cathedral was laid on August 23, 1923, with the first service on August 13, 1924. The cathedral was consecrated on August 2, 1925, after the mortgage was fully paid.

The Holy Trinity Cathedral’s design, characterized by its Byzantine architecture, was an uncommon sight in the region at the time. The architectural work was spearheaded by the local firm Pope and Burton, in collaboration with Greek architect N. A. Dokas from Chicago, who was also known for designing the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Chicago.

The cathedral was elevated to its current status in 1968, during a visit by Archbishop Iakovos, the primate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. From 1997 to 2005, the Holy Trinity Cathedral underwent an extensive renovation to preserve its historical and architectural integrity.

Additionally, the lower level of the cathedral is home to the Hellenic Cultural Museum, which opened its doors in 1992. The museum features exhibits that delve into the early history of Greek immigration and the experiences of immigrants in Utah and the Salt Lake Valley, showcasing their contributions and legacy within the region.