Santiago Calatrava Begins Construction of Church on 9/11 Site

Construction has begun on the Saint Nicholas National Shrine in the World Trade Center complex in New York. Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava will complete the white Vermont marble shrine, which will surround a translucent central Cupola.

The original Greek Orthodox Church was destroyed during the 2001 attacks. Now located on 130 Liberty Street, not far from its former site, the structure will overlook the National September 11th Memorial. The building will continue to serve as an active parish and house of worship and will be open to the general public.

Photos by Santiago Calatrava

Echoing Byzantine architectural style, the shrines bright faade takes inspiration from the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, and the translucent cupola will allow for a glowing effect during the night. The building is slated for completion in 2016.

Santiago Calatrava is also responsible for the World Trade Center transportation Hub, set to open in 2015. The Hub will house a terminal for PATH trains, 225,000-square-feet of retail space, and 11 subway lines.

Photos by Santiago Calatrava

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Santiago Calatrava Begins Construction of Church on 9/11 Site