National Cathedral, Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Sector 5, Romania
The National Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox place of worship in Sector 5, Bucharest, standing on Arsenal Hill above the city and designed with Byzantine forms. Bronze doors open into an interior with marble floors, while a central dome caps the structure at 120 meters (394 feet).
Construction began in 2010 on Arsenal Hill after the project was planned for nearly 130 years following Ottoman rule. Work followed a synod decision taken after the fall of the communist regime.
The name honors Romania's patron saint Andrew and the spiritual legacy of the country as an Orthodox nation. Worshipers gather inside beneath chandeliers while liturgy echoes through the tall vaults.
Access is through broad staircases that climb from the foot of the hill to the entrance level, offering wide views over the surrounding neighborhoods. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing, since the interior is actively used for services.
Beneath the main building stretch two large galleries used for exhibitions and events, able to host thousands of participants. These underground spaces connect with the overall concept of the hill as a spiritual center.
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