When you visit Akron, Ohio, you can experience a rich tapestry of history and spirituality at St. Elia the Prophet Orthodox Church. Originally constructed in 1939 as the Macedonian Home by local Macedonian-Bulgarian immigrants—many arriving from Bitola, Florina, and Sorovich—this gathering place initially served as a lively community and cultural center. Over time, the main floor was permanently transformed into a dedicated place of worship, officially incorporating in 1946.
Today, it stands as an English-speaking Eastern Orthodox parish welcoming people from many different ethnic backgrounds under the Bulgarian Diocese of the Orthodox Church in America. As you explore the church, you will appreciate its striking architectural transformations. During renovations in the 1980s, the building's exterior was updated to its current brick design featuring elegant arched windows, alongside the addition of a prominent bell tower topped with a dome. Inside, you can admire the results of a 1993 interior refresh and gaze upon the beautiful iconostasis installed in 1996, which holds vibrant new icons.
Whether you are interested in local immigrant heritage or sacred Eastern Orthodox architecture, St. Elia offers a meaningful window into Akron's vibrant cultural evolution.
What to see at St. Elia the Prophet Orthodox Church
- Built in 1939 as the Macedonian Home cultural center by local immigrants
- Brick exterior redesign with arched windows and a domed bell tower
- Beautiful interior features a 1996 iconostasis complete with new icons
- English-speaking parish serving members from diverse ethnic backgrounds
Visiting tips
Take time to observe the interior iconostasis and icons added during the church's 1990s renovations.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
St. Elia the Prophet Orthodox Church is easy to reach on Akron’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Akron Art Museum and Akron Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Akron travel guide.
See the full Akron travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.