Egypt Christian Legacy
Coptic Churches may not be on your ‘Must See’ list, but you won’t regret seeing these fascinating and interesting old churches.
Discover the historical treasures of the Coptic Christian community on this private tour. Travel into this captivating neighborhood and visit a medley of early, icon-adorned churches, including the Hanging Church and Abu Serja, where the holy family is said to have found refuge. Learn about Egypt’s rich Coptic heritage, and visit the Church of Saint Simeon, known as Cave Church, considered the largest church in the Middle East.
Tour Plan
Our tour-guide will pick you up from your hotel or cruise ship.
1st stop – The Hanging Church:
Tucked among Coptic Cairo’s meandering streets, the Hanging Church is over 1,000 years old. Enter its 19th-century façade to discover elegant screens, icons, a marble pulpit, and a window revealing Roman ruins underneath the church.
The Hanging Church, built into the walls of the Roman fortress’s water gate, is possibly Egypt’s oldest Christian church. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it is one of Cairo’s most beautiful churches.
2nd stop – Church of Abu Serga:
The Abu Serga is revered as a place where the Holy Family rested after fleeing King Herod and Israel. Twenty-four marble columns line the central court, with a series of 12th-century icons depicting the 12 apostles.
Its fame is due to the belief that it was built on the site where Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus resided during their time in Egypt. One of its most interesting features is the crypt where the Holy Family were said to have rested. The crypt is ten meters deep and, when Nile levels are high, often prone to flooding.
3rd stop – The Cave Church:
Located at the heart of southeastern Cairo’s Mokattam Mountain, St. Simon Monastery (The Cave Church), represents a masterpiece. It contains impressive stories and paintings carved on the wall and mountain rocks, in addition to sculpted statues of Mary Magdalene and the Virgin Mary.
After an informative and meaningful trip, your tour-guide will escort you back to your hotel or cruise ship.
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