Williamsburg in Brooklyn in Kings County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord
Photographed by Ian Lefkowitz, May 2, 2026
1. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Marker
This church, designed by Louis Allmendiger and built between 1916 and 1921, adds unexpected color and drama to the neighborhood. The Greek cross plan and the copper-covered onion-shaped domes and octagonal belfries, all crowned by patriarchal crosses, are characteristic of the Russian Byzantine style. The picturesque silhouette against the sky contrasts vividly with the austere treatment of the yellow brick walls. Round-headed door and window openings and simple bands of stone and brickwork provide the only ornamentation.
Erected 1973 by The New York Community Trust.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical year for this entry is 1921.
Location. 40° 43.173′ N, 73° 57.214′ W. Marker is in Brooklyn, New York, in Kings County. It is in Williamsburg. It is at the intersection of Driggs Avenue and North 12th Street, on the left when traveling south on Driggs Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 228 N 12th Street, Brooklyn NY 11211, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in New York City. It is also in the American Northeast. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, the Western Hemisphere, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Bound Hands Rising Free (approx. Ό mile away); World War II Memorial (approx. Ό mile away); Popieluszko Square (approx. Ό mile away);
this page online
Also see . . .
1. History (Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord).
The 5 copper cupolas topped with Patriarchal crosses are visible far and wide in the New York area. It is one of the largest churches in the New York Metropolitan area. Its well-known picture has appeared in local, national and international newspapers and magazines. The historic picture taken in 1922 was displayed at the American Exposition in Moscow to show a Russian Orthodox Church in the United States (1954). Viewers have seen it in commercials, on television, and in the movie House on Carroll Street.(Submitted on May 3, 2026, by Ian Lefkowitz of New York, New York.)
2. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (Wikipedia)
Photographed by Ian Lefkowitz, May 2, 2026
2. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord
The striking Byzantine-inspired church is located just south of Brooklyn's McCarren Park.
Photographed by Ian Lefkowitz, May 2, 2026
3. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord
There are a series of plaques on each side of the Driggs Avenue entrance to the church.
Photographed by Ian Lefkowitz, May 2, 2026
4. National Register of Historic Places Plaque
Borough of Brooklyn, Kings County
State of New York
In recognition of its historical and architectural significance and to encourage its preservation, was listed on the
National Register of Historic Places
by the
United States Department of the Interior
16 April 1980
Photographed by Ian Lefkowitz, May 2, 2026
5. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Marker
Russian Orthodox
Greek Catholic
Cathedral of the
Transfiguration of Our Lord
Русскій Православный
Спасо-Преображенскій Соборъ
Begun 1916 — Consecrated 1922
Credits. This page was last revised on May 10, 2026. It was originally submitted on May 3, 2026, by Ian Lefkowitz of New York, New York. This page has been viewed 20 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on May 3, 2026, by Ian Lefkowitz of New York, New York. • Michael Herrick was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A link to the National Register of Historic Places nomination form citing the building's historic significance. • Can you help?
