Debrecen4U
December 17, 2025
Interior renovation of Attila Square Greek catholic cathedral nearly complete
The scaffolding has been dismantled, and by Christmas all the marble floor tiles will be in place in the “Protection of the Mother of God Greek catholic cathedral,” (Istenszülő Oltalma Görögkatolikus Főszékesegyház). Although the icon painters will continue their work for months, they will no longer need scaffolding. Renovation of the surrounding park has also begun, but that will only continue in the spring.
Renovation of the cathedral began in autumn 2023, yet it remained open to the faithful throughout, with services held on weekends. This will be no different during the holidays, when holy liturgies, worship services, and evening vespers will welcome the faithful. The schedule of festive occasions is available here.
Construction of the independent Greek Catholic church in Debrecen began in 1907 and lasted nearly three years. Bishop Gyula Firczák consecrated the neo‑Byzantine-style church on May 22, 1910, in honor of the Protection of the Mother of God.
The Greek Catholic Church has continuously sought to maintain the building in good technical condition and carry out necessary preservation works. However, more than a hundred years have passed since its construction, making a complete renovation of the cathedral necessary.
As part of the renovation, the building has been enriched with a new heating system and copper sheet roofing. The church has been repainted and received a new altar.
The comprehensive renovation cost HUF 2.5 billion, of which the state provided HUF 2 billion, while the remainder was covered by donations from the faithful and the archdiocese’s own resources.
Renovation works can still be supported by purchasing a “brick ticket,” for which donors receive a special keepsake. During the renovation, experts salvaged original bricks from the early 1900s, which were given unique packaging as a token of gratitude for financial support.
“Brick coupons” can be purchased in several ways:
- In person: at the Archbishop’s Office (Debrecen, 8 Petőfi Square) and at the Debrecen community house (5 Attila Square)
- By bank transfer: Hajdúdorog Metropolitan Church, account number 10702071‑19204886‑53200008.
Source: dehir.hu
