Catedrala ’’Sfanta Fecioara Maria Regina’’ (Our Lady Queen Cathedral), Iasi

Catedrala „Sfânta Fecioară Maria Regină” is the principal Roman Catholic cathedral of the Diocese of Iași and one of the largest Catholic churches in Romania. Built between 1992 and 2005, it was created for the growing Catholic community after decades of restrictions under communism. Consecrated in 2005, it reflects the renewal of Catholic life in Moldavia.

The cathedral has a modern circular plan, with an exterior diameter of about 38 meters. Its curved roof and upward lines are often linked to the image of a ship, while the 24 tall ogive windows and the large steel cross above create the impression of a royal crown. The number 24 also appears in the central chandelier, which surrounds the monogram of Jesus.

Inside, the bright space focuses attention on the altar and can host large diocesan celebrations and pilgrimages. The cathedral contains 117 stained-glass windows arranged by themes such as Creation, the Sacraments, the Rosary, and the Cosmos. A floor motif with 12 stars leads toward the altar, suggesting a symbolic path of salvation. The cathedral hosts Masses, sacred music concerts, and diocesan events, and was visited by Pope Francis in 2019.