Thousands of pilgrims flocked to Romania’s capital to venerate religious paintings inside the world’s largest Orthodox Christian church.
The People’s Salvation Cathedral, known as the National Cathedral, opened after 15 years of construction as worshipers and officials arrived in large numbers.
The cathedral is more than 125 meters (410 ft) high at its highest point and has an internal capacity of 5,000 worshipers in the Orthodox country.
According to the National Cathedral’s website, the interior of the cathedral is covered with frescoes and mosaics depicting saints and icons, covering an area of 17,800 square meters (191,000 sq ft).
Mega Cathedral took 15 years to build
Romania is one of the most devout countries in the European Union, with approximately 85% of the population identifying as religious.
Construction of the cathedral began in 2010, and its altar was consecrated in 2018. It is reported to have cost €270 million ($313 million) so far, most of which has been raised from public funds.
Some work still remains to be completed.
The Sunday service was attended by President Nikosor Dan and Prime Minister Elie Bologen. Many worshipers watched through TV screens set up outside the cathedral.
With one of the largest budget deficits in the European Union, there is some unhappiness over the cost of the project.
Critics have complained that the huge church has used up public money that could have been spent on schools or hospitals.
Edited by: Zack Crellin