Saint Sophia Cathedral, London, Greek Orthodox cathedral in Bayswater, London.
Saint Sophia Cathedral is a brick Orthodox church located on Moscow Road in Bayswater, built in Byzantine Revival style. The interior displays a domed ceiling, arched windows, and walls adorned with polychromatic marble and mosaic work that reflects Byzantine design principles.
The cathedral was constructed in 1879 by architect John Oldrid Scott as a place of worship for Orthodox Christians in Britain. In 1922, it received formal recognition from the Greek Patriarchate, solidifying its status as the principal Orthodox church in the British Isles.
The cathedral serves as a spiritual and social center for London's Greek Orthodox community, where believers gather for worship and cultural celebrations. The space embodies traditions that have been passed down through families over many decades.
Visitors can attend regular services held throughout the week in both Greek and English, with opportunities to experience the full liturgy. A basement museum displays donated treasures and historical objects that help tell the story of the community over time.
The iconostasis was painted rather than created with frescoes due to London's humid climate, a practical choice that led to the later addition of mosaics by G M Mercenero. This adaptation shaped the distinctive visual character of the interior in unexpected ways.
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