Full day visit National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Old Cairo Churches

Ihr Reiseerlebnis mit Travco Egypt

Full day visit National Mus. of Egy. Civilization, Old Cairo Churches

National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)

Start your day at the NMEC, located in the heart of Fustat, Cairo’s first capital under Islamic rule. This museum is relatively new, having opened its doors fully to the public in 2021, and is dedicated to showcasing the vast and varied civilization of Egypt across millennia.

1. Main Exhibition Halls Begin with the main exhibition halls, where you’ll encounter artifacts that span the full scope of Egyptian history—from prehistory, Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic eras, all the way to modern and contemporary times. Exhibits are arranged in a way that highlights the development of Egyptian culture, society, and achievements.
2. The Royal Mummies Hall One of the museum's highlights, the Royal Mummies Hall, houses 22 royal mummies, including the famous pharaohs Ramses II, Hatshepsut, and Seti I. This display is set in a dimly lit, serene environment to provide a sense of respect and awe. The hall offers insights into the royal lives, beliefs, and funerary practices of Ancient Egypt.
3. Temporary Exhibitions and Specialized Galleries The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and specialized galleries on topics like Egyptian crafts, textiles, and pottery, giving visitors a chance to understand the richness of Egyptian artisanal culture.
4. Interactive Displays and Multimedia Experiences For a more immersive experience, NMEC incorporates interactive technology and multimedia displays, allowing visitors to virtually explore Egyptian sites and engage with augmented reality exhibits.

Take a break for lunch at the museum’s café, where you can enjoy a view of Ain el-Sira Lake and refresh before heading to your next destination.

Churches of Old Cairo

After immersing yourself in Egypt’s ancient past, head to Old Cairo (also known as Coptic Cairo) for a walk through the city’s early Christian sites. This area is home to some of the oldest churches in Egypt, and each site is steeped in both religious and architectural history.

1. The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Church) Begin your tour at the Hanging Church, one of the oldest and most iconic Coptic churches in Egypt, dating back to the 7th century. Built atop an ancient Roman fortress, this church is known for its beautiful wooden ceiling, which resembles the hull of Noah’s Ark, intricate icons, and the marble pulpit. The church has significant historical importance for Egyptian Christians.
2. Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church Known as Abu Serga, this church is traditionally believed to be built over the site where the Holy Family (Joseph, Mary, and infant Jesus) took refuge during their journey in Egypt. Inside, you’ll find a small crypt where the Holy Family is believed to have stayed, along with beautiful ancient Coptic art and architecture.