BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Sunday marked a significant milestone in Romanian history as thousands of pilgrims gathered in the capital city for the consecration of religious paintings within the magnificent walls of the People’s Salvation Cathedral, renowned as the largest Christian Orthodox church in the world. After fifteen years of rigorous construction, the cathedral finally opened its doors, welcoming both worshippers and officials in a spirit of religious fervor. The cathedral is a striking architectural feat, standing over 125 meters (410 feet) tall and capable of accommodating 5,000 worshippers, reflecting Romania’s deeply Orthodox cultural heritage.
The proposal for a national cathedral dates back over a century, representing a vision stifled by historical turmoil, including two world wars and decades of communist oppression, which sought to suppress religious expression. For many, the cathedral transcends mere structure; it serves as a potent symbol of national identity according to the Romanian Orthodox Church.
Romania, home to approximately 19 million residents, is celebrated as one of the most pious countries within the European Union, with around 85% of the population identifying as religious. Its location, directly behind the imposing Palace of the People—erected by the former communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu—puts the cathedral in the heart of a city steeped in contrasting layers of history.
Construction of the cathedral officially commenced in 2010, with the altar consecrated in 2018. The project has come at a steep financial cost, estimated at a staggering 270 million euros (about $313 million), mostly funded by public resources, raising eyebrows among many in a nation dealing with one of the largest budget deficits in the EU.
The sense of communal worship was palpable during the service. Traffic restrictions around the cathedral ensured that thousands could gather without disruption, including several dignitaries, such as President Nicușor Dan and Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan. For those unable to fit inside, large TV screens were set up outside, allowing worshippers to partake in the monumental occasion.
Within its opulent interior, the cathedral boasts an impressive array of mosaics and frescoes, covering an area of approximately 17,800 square meters (191,000 square feet). According to the cathedral’s website, artist Daniel Codrescu, who dedicated seven years to this project, emphasized that the iconography draws heavily from medieval Romanian art combined with influences from the Byzantine tradition. “It was a complex collaboration with the church, art historians, and contemporary artists,” Codrescu explained, expressing hope that the cathedral would leave a profound impact on society by serving as a critical public space.
Despite the grand celebration, the funding of such a colossal project has ignited debates across the country. Critics argue that the financial resources could have been better allocated toward pressing societal needs, like healthcare and education. Claudiu Tufis, an associate professor of political science at the University of Bucharest, labeled the cathedral project a “waste of public money.” He acknowledged, however, that it could bolster national pride for many Romanians who view the cathedral as a triumph of cultural identity.
Supporters like Rares Ghiorghies, 37, recognize the church’s significance but champion the argument that fiscal responsibility should take precedence over monumental religious architecture. “The big problem in society is that most of those who criticize do not follow the activities of the church,” he remarked, illustrating the complexity and multifaceted nature of public perception surrounding the cathedral’s funding.