Back to Cairo

Today we flew back to Cairo for the remaining part of our tour. Upon arrival we went to an area called Masr Al-Qadima or old Cairo. This area has been a strong hold of Christianity since the Roman period and is known colloquially as Coptic Cairo. We visited two churches. We then visited Ben Ezra Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Egypt, and the place where the Cairo Geniza was discovered in 1896.

St. Mary’s Church known as the Hanging Church
The church goes back to the late fourth century CE. The pupil dates back to the 11th century and rests on 15 columns made of marble. The church was the seat of patriarchs for hundreds of years till the 14th century.
Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church also known as Abu Serga. This church is believed to have been the spot where the holy family rested at the end of their journey to Egypt, and it is where many patriarchs of the Coptic church have been elected and consecrated.
Holy family journeying to Egypt
Cave where holy family took refuge
Ben Ezra Synagogue
Area outside the synagogue. The claim is that the baby Moses was found at this spot.

Leave a comment