Half day visit Old Cairo Churches & Coptic Museum

Your Travel Experience with Travco Egypt

Half day visit Old Cairo Churches & Coptic Museum

1. The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church)

• Start at the famous Hanging Church, known for its unique architecture. It is called "The Hanging Church" because it was built over a Roman fortress, giving it a “suspended” appearance. The church dates back to the 3rd century AD, making it one of the oldest churches in Egypt. Inside, you’ll see intricate wooden paneling, icons, and beautiful mosaics depicting scenes from Christian scripture.

2. Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church (Abu Serga)

• Nearby is the Church of Saint Sergius and Bacchus, also known as Abu Serga. Tradition holds that the Holy Family rested here during their flight to Egypt. Built in the 4th century, this church is known for its historical and religious significance, as well as its beautiful wooden ceiling, resembling Noah's Ark. Don’t miss the crypt where the Holy Family is said to have taken refuge.

3. The Church of St. Barbara

• Another remarkable church to visit is St. Barbara’s. It houses some of the oldest and most precious relics and manuscripts of Coptic Christianity. Known for its simplistic basilica style, it stands as a testament to Egypt's ancient Christian heritage.

4. Ben Ezra Synagogue

• Ben Ezra Synagogue is also nearby, originally a church that was later converted into a synagogue. Though primarily significant to Jewish history, it adds to the cultural richness of Old Cairo and is reputed to be the site where Moses was found in the reeds by Pharaoh’s daughter.

5. Coptic Museum

• Finally, visit the Coptic Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Coptic Christian art. Established in 1910, the museum showcases a vast array of artifacts, manuscripts, textiles, frescoes, and sculptures that trace the development of Christianity in Egypt. The exhibits illustrate the fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences in early Coptic art.