Ancient Churches

Long before the arrival of Islam, Egypt was a heartland of early Christianity. Coptic Cairo, a historic enclave within the modern city, is a testament to this deep history. It is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, ancient walls, and churches that have served their congregations for nearly two millennia. Here, within the walls of the old Roman Fortress of Babylon, you can walk in the footsteps of the Holy Family and witness a faith that has endured through ages of trial and transformation.

The Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church, better known as the Hanging Church, is one of the most famous and oldest churches in Egypt. Its name comes from its incredible location: it was built suspended over the Water Gate of the ancient Roman Fortress of Babylon.

• A Feat of Engineering: To enter the church, visitors must climb 29 steps. The original foundation is visible through glass panels in the floor.
• Ancient Artistry: The church is home to a priceless collection of over 100 icons, the oldest dating back to the 8th century. Its 11th-century marble pulpit is a masterpiece.

The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, known to all as Abu Serga, holds a place of profound reverence for Christians worldwide. It is believed to be built upon the very spot where the Holy Family rested at the end of their journey into Egypt.

Carved directly into the face of the Mokattam mountain on the outskirts of Cairo is one of the most astonishing places of worship in the world. This massive complex can hold over 20,000 people, making it the largest church in the Middle East. It serves the Zabbaleen community, a population of sanitation workers.

The church memorializes the 10th-century miracle where Saint Simon the Tanner is said to have moved the Mokattam mountain through the power of faith.

Located near the Ben Ezra Synagogue, this church dates back to the 5th century but was rebuilt in the 11th century. It is dedicated to St. Barbara, a martyr from Nicomedia. The church is architecturally significant for its soaring nave and intricate wooden screen (iconostasis) dating to the Fatimid era. It houses the relics of St. Barbara and is a serene example of classical Coptic basilica design.

Unique among Cairo's churches, the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George is round. It is built directly atop the circular tower of the Roman Fortress of Babylon. The current structure dates to the early 20th century (after a fire destroyed the original), but it retains an ancient atmosphere. It is famous for the "chains of St. George," which visitors wrap around themselves to pray for miracles and healing.

Founded in 1908 by Marcus Simaika Pasha, the Coptic Museum is located within the walls of the Babylon Fortress in Old Cairo. It houses the largest collection of Coptic artifacts in the world, bridging the gap between Pharaonic and Islamic art. Its treasures include the Nag Hammadi Gnostic Gospels, intricate textiles, and frescoes that show the evolution of Egyptian art symbols into Christian iconography (like the Ankh becoming the Cross).

The ancient churches of Cairo are not dead museums; they are vibrant centers of living faith. The chants, the incense, and the prayers have continued uninterrupted for centuries. They stand as a testament to the resilience of the Coptic community and the rich, multi-layered history of Egypt.