The church was originally commissioned by Queen Marie of Romania as a votive monument.
World War II and the subsequent communist regime caused significant delays, leaving the church unfinished for several decades.
The interior mosaics cover over 1,200 square meters, created using gold leaf and Murano glass.
The floor is constructed from high-quality marble arranged in complex geometric patterns.
The site was intended to be a royal necropolis, though no members of the royal family are interred there.
The building was completed and consecrated only in the 21st century after decades of construction interruptions.
Cașin Church, officially the Monastery of the Archangel Michael, is a monumental Neo-Byzantine structure located in northern Bucharest. It was commissioned by the Romanian Royal Family and construction began in 1935 under the direction of architect Dumitru Ionescu-Berechet. The building features an expansive central dome and interior walls adorned with extensive mosaics executed in the Italian tradition. Its design was inspired by the 14th-century Curtea de Argeș Monastery, blending traditional Moldavian motifs with modern structural techniques. The church serves as a significant site for both religious services and formal state events. It remains an active Orthodox parish church, maintaining its role as a key community and spiritual landmark. The exterior is characterized by intricate brickwork and a prominent bell tower that dominates the local skyline.
From the park across the street for a clear, full-height shot of the main facade and dome.
Respect the ongoing religious services by remaining silent and staying toward the back of the nave.
Look up at the central dome to fully appreciate the scale of the interior mosaic work.
Visit during the morning to see the sunlight hit the front facade, highlighting the brickwork details.
Avoid visiting during Sunday morning liturgies unless you intend to participate in the service, as the church becomes very crowded.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Hats should be removed upon entry. Women may choose to wear a headscarf, though it is not strictly mandatory for visitors.
