Orthodox Cathedral, Sao Paulo

The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral of São Paulo, also known as the Orthodox Cathedral, is a significant place of worship for the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch. Situated on Vergueiro Street in Paraíso, São Paulo, this cathedral is dedicated to Paul the Apostle. It serves as the spiritual home for the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of São Paulo and All Brazil.

The construction of this magnificent structure was initiated to cater to the growing population of Lebanese Brazilians who embraced the Orthodox Christian faith and migrated to Brazil during the late 19th century. Today, it stands as one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals globally, showcasing the remarkable Byzantine Revival architectural style.

Commencing in 1942, the cathedral's construction was inspired by the renowned Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. Under the guidance of Paul Taufick Camasmie and with the collaboration of architects Francisca Galvão Bueno and Igor Sresnewsky, the cathedral gradually took shape. Notably, the painter Joseph Trabulsi, personally chosen by King Farouk of Egypt, contributed to its decoration, while the artist Wladimir Krivoutz dedicated his expertise to crafting the marble iconostasis.

In January 1954, the cathedral was officially inaugurated, coinciding with the quatercentenary celebrations of the city of São Paulo. Its consecration, led by Patriarch Elias IV and Metropolitan Ignátios Ferzli, took place in 1978.