Visit Coronation Cathedral In Alba Iulia

Coronation Cathedral is one of two cathedrals in the Alba Carolina Citadel in Alba Iulia. They both sit alongside each other. This place of worship is Orthodox; the other next door is a Roman Catholic cathedral.

The Coronation Cathedral, or, in Romanian, Catedrala Încoronării, is dedicated to the Holy Trinity and the Holy Archangels, Michael and Gabriel.

This is a Romanian Orthodox cathedral constructed to commemorate the union of Transylvania with Romania. Visiting the cathedral is free; however, donations are welcome.

The cathedral was built in 1921 and 1922. It was finished in time for the coronation of King Ferdinand and Queen Marie, who were crowned monarchs of Greater Romania on October 15, 1922.

Catedrala Încoronării Courtyard & Buildings

The cathedral forms part of a group of buildings erected beginning in the late 19th century. They were built in the national style promoted by Ion Mincu and Petre Antonescu. These incorporated traditional forms of Romanian architecture. This is in the Brâncovenesc style and adapts it to modern tastes.

The buildings and gardens surrounding the cathedral felt like being in a monastery and were quite uplifting. You pass an archway to access the courtyard. This arch is underneath a tower. This was in the design I had seen a few times in Romania.

Visit Inside Coronation Cathedral

The inside is spectacular, with intricate art everywhere, especially on the ceilings. The detail of the decor is very special, as are the stained glass windows.

The altar of the cathedral was made from dark wood. The altar has an Orthodox cross at the top and lots of religious art incorporated into it. I reflected while sitting in a chair at the edge of the church. Meanwhile, others took their time to pray. Entry to the historical attraction is free.