Thousands of pilgrims flocked to Romania's capital to consecrate religious paintings inside the world's largest Orthodox Christian church.

The People's Salvation Cathedral, known as the National Cathedral, was opened after 15 years of construction as worshippers and officials arrived in droves.

At its highest point the cathedral stands more than 125 meters (410 feet) and has an interior capacity for 5,000 worshippers in the conservative country.

The cathedral's interior has been covered with frescoes and mosaics depicting saints and icons, which cover an area of 17,800 square meters (191,000 square feet), according the National Cathedral's website.  

Mega cathedral 15 years in the making

Romania is one of the most devout countries in the European Union, with around 85% of the population identifying as religious.

Construction for the cathedral began in 2010, and its altar was consecrated in 2018. It has so far cost a reported €270 million ($313 million), with the majority having been drawn from public funds.

Some works are still yet to be completed.

Sunday's service was attended by President Nicusor Dan and Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan. Many worshippers watched via TV screens set up outside the cathedral. 

With one of the largest budget deficits in the EU, there has been some unhappiness about the cost of the project.

Critics have bemoaned that the massive church has drawn on public funds, which could have been spent on schools or hospitals.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story referred to the cathedral as the "biggest" worldwide.

Edited by: Zac Crellin