The Greek War of Independence, begun on March 25, 1821 — a date now celebrated annually as Greek Independence Day — not only brought about the modern Greek nation-state. It also helped launch a fascination with classical Greek architecture and design in the second quarter of the 19th century. This was just as the present-day neighborhoods of Greenwich Village, the East Village, and NoHo were experiencing their first boom as developing urban neighborhoods. As a result, we have a wealth of what came to be known as Greek Revival architecture, including some of the most important landmarks of the style in the entire country. And thanks to hard-won landmark designations, more examples of this historic style survive in our neighborhoods than anywhere else in New York City.

The Greek Revival style includes everything from churches, synagogues, and monumental terraces of grand houses designed to impress and inspire viewers, to modest but carefully articulated structures meant to shelter average New Yorkers. These are familiar beloved monuments and anonymous edifices one passes every day. But they were all inspired by this classical style of architecture that a modern struggle for independence and self-determination helped bring to public attention, and continue to define our architectural heritage. 

Our Greek Revival map is one of dozens Village Preservation has created to guide you through the rich history of Greenwich Village, the East Village, and NoHo. They cover topics from hip-hop history to landmarks of women’s suffrage, civil rights sites to Bob Dylan’s hangouts.