Cultural, historical, adventure, and custom customized trips are just a few of the tours that Deluxe trips offer in Egypt and Jordan.
Old Coptic Cairo, a classic district buried deep in Egypt's sprawling capital, is more than a historic district—more a sacred doorway to one of the globe's most ancient Christian communities. Renowned for its ancient monasteries, churches, and religious relics, Coptic Cairo maintains a rich legacy of religion, resilience, and culture. For tourists who have a taste for religious history, early Christianity, and Egypt beyond the pharaohs, this destination is a must see while taking your Cairo day tours.
Coptic Cairo is applied to refer to a specific neighborhood in Old Cairo that is traditionally associated with the Coptic Orthodox Christian community. It holds some of Egypt's oldest Christian churches that were built centuries ago in the early days of Christianity—long before the propagation of Islam throughout the country. The district houses Jewish and Islamic historic sites as well, thereby being a blend of Egypt's multi-cultural heritage.
The word "Coptic" comes from the Greek appellation Aigyptos, i.e., "Egyptian." It is today employed primarily to refer to Egypt's native Christian population belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Church.
1st Century AD – According to tradition, the Holy Family—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—took refuge in Egypt. They are believed to have rested in what is today Coptic Cairo when they fled King Herod.
3rd to 7th Century AD – Christianity prospers in Egypt under Roman rule. Dozens of monasteries and churches were built during the period, most of which survived until the modern era.
641 AD – Islam conquest of Egypt begins, though the Coptic community continues and maintains their religion in the same area.
Modern Day – Coptic Cairo is kept in good condition as a heritage site and living religious hub welcoming tourists and pilgrims from around the globe.
1. The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church)
This is the most recognizable landmark of Coptic Cairo. Built above a Roman fortress gate, this church literally "hangs" in mid-air—hence the name. It boasts beautiful wooden screens, icons, and a marble pulpit.
2. The Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga)
Believed to be built over the cave where the Holy Family took refuge, this church is a sacred pilgrimage site. It shows early Coptic architecture and remains a place of worship.
3. The Coptic Museum
This museum houses one of the world's largest collections of Coptic art, manuscripts, textiles, and artifacts, giving a glimpse of early Christian Egyptian life in-depth.
4. Ben Ezra Synagogue
Although not Coptic, this ancient synagogue is located within the same compound and is a testament to Egypt's past religious diversity.
Coptic Cairo is more than a collection of churches—it is an active record of Egypt's Christian heritage. It is the birthplace of Christianity in Africa and gives us a glimpse into a religion that survived Roman persecution, Islamic rule, and contemporary reform.
The Coptic Cairo architecture and art are a blending of the Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic traditions, illustrating how Egypt's culture evolved over the centuries.
Be dressed modestly – They are work religious sites, after all, so thoughtful attire is required.
Take a guide – An expert Egyptologist or Coptic guide can provide depth to your religious and historical background.
Skip Sundays and Fridays – These are peak prayer times and might limit access to some of the churches.
If you wish to gain maximum benefit from your Cairo travel itinerary, you should pair your visit to Coptic Cairo with:
Islamic Cairo tours so you can view historic mosques and Al-Muizz Street
A visit to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where you can learn about over 5,000 years of history
A trip to the Giza Pyramids, a comparison between Christian legacy and ancient Egyptian mythology
Optional Tour: Full Day Tour to Museum, Citadel and Old Cairo
Also Read: The History of Old Islamic Cairo
Coptic Cairo is a deeply spiritual and historical pilgrimage that artfully juxtaposes against the grandeur of the pharaohs and Islamic Cairo's vigor. With its peaceful ambiance, rich symbolism, and sacred shrines, it is an absolute must-see for anyone wanting to understand the total story of Egypt's religious evolution.
Whether pilgrimage or simply visiting Egypt's historical bounty, a walk through Coptic Cairo will leave an unforgettable impression—one replete with religion, determination, and timeless beauty.
Discover now our answers to the most common questions that may come to your mind about tourism and trips to Egypt
Cultural, historical, adventure, and custom customized trips are just a few of the tours that Deluxe trips offer in Egypt and Jordan.
The Dead Sea, Petra in Jordan, the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor's historic temples, and many other famous sites can be expected to be explored with Deluxe Tours.
offer a hassle-free holiday, Deluxe Tours' packages generally include lodging, transport, meals, guided tours with experienced local experts, and entry fees to attractions.
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the finest weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, making those months the best times to visit Egypt and Jordan.
These two countries are close by, only a 1.5-hour flight apart, and when combined, offer a variety of distinctive experiences. We advise you to spend at least 12 days visiting both countries for a truly unforgettable experience
Combining the eclipse viewing with visits to historic sites like the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and a Nile River cruise are highly recommended.
