Coptic Christian Sites in Egypt

Coptic Museum in Old Cairo

The Coptic Museum in Old Cairo holds relics from Egypt's early Christians. Approaching its first century of existence, the Coptic Museum holds a treasure trove of relics such as painted textiles; icons; manuscripts; frescoes; and wood, ivory, stone, and glass carvings. 13 halls in the old wing are currently receiving massive overhauls, though the 17 halls in the new wing hold the majority of what the exhibits have to offer as well as an enclosed garden. Travel in Cairo would not be complete without a trip to Old Cairo and a stop at the Coptic Museum.

The Coptic Church

While most individuals are under the impression that Islam has always been the religion of Egypt, Christianity was at one time the dominant religion from 4th century AD to 641 AD-at which time Islam officially became the dominant religion. Christianity was first preached by St. Mark in 50 AD and Egypt was one of the first countries to adopt this young faith.

The Coptic Church is the Egyptian branch of Christianity, though it is unlike other branches of Christianity because they believe Christ was 100% divine and not both God and man. The Coptic Church elects its own Pope and many of the ceremonies held in the church are performed in the ancient Coptic language.

The Holy Family's Journey

If you are knowledgeable in regards to the stories in the Bible, you probably remember that Jesus and his family fled to Egypt from Bethlehem while trying to escape King Herod. They traveled 4 years and 2,000 km by donkey across 30 different locations in Egypt-from Al-Farma to the Al-Muharraq monastery. As you may have guessed, the Holy Family's Journey through Egypt is incredibly important to the Coptic Church, which celebrates Jesus' arrival in Egypt on June 1st annually-the 24th day of Bashans according the Coptic calendar.

Coptic Monuments in Alexandria

Once one of the pivotal seats of the Roman Empire, Alexandria is home to a multitude of gorgeous Coptic monuments which bear record of the many triumphs of the Roman Empire. Many wonderful sites can be seen on Egypt tours of Alexandria.

Virgin's Tree

Many different places have been named to honor the Virgin Mary, though the Virgin's Tree is one of the few which Mary actually visited accompanied by the young Jesus. It is believed that they took shelter under the branches of the tree, taking refreshment from the same spring that still waters its roots. Tours to Ancient Egypt may include a stop at this site.

Al-Muallaqa (Hanging) Church

It has proved to be somewhat difficult to date the al-Muallawa church as a result of its many renovations throughout the years, though it s believed to have been completed between the 7th and 9th centuries on top of the former Water Gate on the south-facing wall of the Babylon fortress. Visitors to this location can still view the gate through a hole in the baptistery's floor. There are two bell towers which stretch 13 m skyward. Major events in the Coptic calendar are celebrated beneath its vaulted ceilings. The church's impressive collection of chalices, censers, and crosses in gold, gilt, and silver go on display during the Enthronement of the Patriarch. If you are interested in viewing some of the ancient churches of Egypt, America Israel Travel highly suggests stopping at al-Muallaqa Church during your travel in Egypt.

Church of Abu Serga (St Sergius)

The Church of Abu Serga or St. Serguis was built on the location believed to be where the Holy Family took refuge during their flight into Egypt. This is another noteworthy site for Egyptian Church enthusiasts which can be viewed while on certain Ancient Egypt tours.

Church of St Barbara

The Church of St. Barbara is said to hold the relics of St. Barbara.

Saint Catherine's Monastery

As you may already know, it was at the top of Mt. Sinai where Moses is said to have received the 10 commandments directly from God. At the base of Mt. Sinai, near where the biblical burning bush is said to be located, the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine also sits. Saint Catherine's Monastery is a popular stop for Mount Sinai tours.

Saint Catherine's Monastery was named after one of the early Christian martyrs of Alexandria. Emperor Justinian had a basilica built to hold the recovered remains of St. Catherine centuries after her death. The church is now embellished with amazingly ornate icons and biblical paintings, which is another reason why many of those that wish to climb Mount Sinai stop here as well. The museum of St. Catherine's Monastery holds the 2nd largest collection of illuminated manuscripts in Arabic, Greek, Coptic, Hebrew, and Georgian in the world. For this reason, it is a popular destination for those on tours to Mount Sinai who are interested in the history of Christianity.

Church of Mar Guirguis (St George)

While the name St. George may remind you of the English dragon-slaying saint, Mar Guirguis was actually a Palestinian early martyr that was put to death in the 4th century by the Romans. Church of Mar Guirguis is the first to bear his name and it was built nearly 6 centuries after his death. The elegantly domed church of today was built at the turn of the 20th century and stands on the fire-ravaged remnants of the original. Inside the Church of Mar Guirguis, visitors can take in the awe-inspiring stained glass windows. America Israel Travel highly recommends visiting the Church of Mar Guirguis if you wish to see this marvelous church first hand during your travel in Egypt.