Sydney Cathedral set for $27m refurb

Sydney’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral is set to undergo a $27 million facelift spanning two decades to become the centre of the Greek Australian community.

The long-term masterplan includes the $2 million restoration of the historic Cathedral of the Annunciation of our Lady as well as the creation of a new library and museum which will celebrate the heritage of Greek Australians.

Honorary Secretary, Nicholas Pappas, says that the five-stage plan will enable the Church to connect and engage with Greeks from across Australia.

“The proposal is necessary not only to repair ageing and deteriorating infrastructure of the Archdiocese but will also improve functionality and ensure the Archdiocese’s facilities meet the needs of our community,” he says.

Award-winning Greek Australian architect, Angelo Candalepas has designed the proposals and explains that the careful renovations will be welcomed by the Greek Australian community.

“It will ensure that this site and its surrounding areas will be here for many generations to come,” he says.

“The buildings are cultural landmarks and have the power to bring communities closer together”.

The ambitious masterplan is the vision of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia who explains the importance of having a well-equipped hub for those from all walks of life.

“The Archdiocese constitutes a sacred space and is at the epicentre of the Greek Orthodox presence in Australia,” His Eminence says. 

“The newly created facilities will bring us closer together, and most importantly, will enable our young people to have their own space within the Archdiocese and our Theological College.”