Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is a unique part of Old Cairo that takes you back in time to the early days of Christianity in the country. This area is filled with ancient churches, each telling its own story of faith and history. Here, you can explore the Babylon Fortress, built in 300 AD to link the Nile to the Red Sea. 

One of the major highlights of Coptic Cairo is the Coptic Museum, which was opened in 1910. It is home to an impressive collection of Coptic artefacts, offering insights into Egypt's Christian community. Another must-visit is the Hanging Church, also known as Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church. Built on the gatehouse of the Babylon Fortress, this church appears to be hanging in the air. It is one of the oldest and most famous Coptic churches in Cairo, dating back to the 3rd century AD. 

Coptic Cairo is a living, breathing part of the city. It is where the Coptic Christian community still gathers for worship. The area features the five original churches and the first mosque ever built in Egypt. You can also find the oldest synagogue here. This district allows you to step back in time and explore the roots of Christianity in Egypt. Whether you are interested in history, religion, or art, Coptic Cairo offers a fascinating glimpse into a past that has shaped the present.

Location: Sharia Mar Girgis, south of Downtown

• Explore the Hanging Church, perched atop ancient Roman gates, and see stunning 3rd-century icons and religious art.
• Discover the Coptic Museum, housing the world's largest collection of Coptic Christian artefacts.
• Visit the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their visit to Egypt.
• Admire the architecture of the Babylon Fortress, a testament to Cairo's rich historical tapestry.
• Experience the unique blend of cultures at the Ben Ezra Synagogue, ranked as the oldest in Cairo.