A notable Coptic monastery to visit is the Monastery of Saint Anthony in the desert east of the Nile Delta. Founded in the 4th century, it is the oldest active monastery in the world. The monastery consists of an impressive collection of buildings, chapels and hermitages, harmoniously embedded in the desert landscape. It is also a place of spirituality and retreat for monks dedicated to the contemplative life.

Another important monastery is the Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as the Monastery of Al-Muharraq, in Upper Egypt. Founded in the 4th century, it is known for its impressive architecture and rich history. The monastery houses an impressive collection of icons, manuscripts and religious artifacts, offering an insight into Coptic art and culture.

program of the Coptic monasteries

Your excursion in detail: We will pick up you  at the entrance of your hotel early in the morning. On the way to the monasteries, which are about 280 km from Hurghada, we drive past the village of Zafarana, which is located in the desert. At the end of a rough valley we reach the St. Paul monastery. It was built on the cave of Saint Paul, a hermit who lived in the 4th century AD. He preferred an ascetic life in the desert to the comforts of city life and dedicated his life to worshiping God. According to legend, God himself sent ravens to his faithful servant to bring him bread to save him from starvation. After Paul died at the age of 105, his grave is said to have been dug by lions. Deep beneath the monastery lies the beautiful crypt, which is decorated with many colorful frescoes. In addition to sacred buildings and liturgical objects, you can also discover things of everyday use, such as an old mill and an olive press. Another little highlight: there is even a water spring in the middle of the desert.

After a short break with fresh drinks, we head to the other side of the mountain. More than 1,600 years ago, the hermit Antonius lived in a cave on the mountain at an altitude of 680 meters. A staircase with around 1,000 steps leads into his grotto. If you climb up to the saint's dwelling, you can enter the cave - there you will see interesting writings and drawings. From the entrance you have a fantastic view over the desert and mountains, and in good weather you can even see the sea on the horizon. Immediately after the ascetic's death, Christian monks founded the St. Anthony Monastery at the foot of Anthony's Mountain in 356 AD. This monastery is considered the beginning of Christian monasticism, as it served as an example to believers throughout the Christian world. Today it still houses more than 100 monks. It covers a huge area of ​​6 hectares, which is surrounded by a 1,200 meter long and 12 meter high wall that once protected the holy site from attacks by enemy Bedouins. Here you can visit the old Christian church where the tomb of Saint Anthony is located. Medieval paintings that are equally well-preserved can be found, and the library contains valuable ancient manuscripts.

The monastery was recently renovated. In the afternoon you will return to your hotel.

Price from:

60€

• Book online and pay on site
• Pick up from your hotel lobby
• English speaking tour guide
• Customer service available 24/7
• Insurance included

Prices per person

Payment options: Cash in euros or Dollar – credit card payment not possible – payment on site.

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