5- The Coptic Quarter
Discover the oldest district of Cairo, also called "old Cairo".
A true jewel of riches. In this district you will cross the different eras by visiting the fortress of Babylon, the synagogue of Ben Ezra and the oldest churches in Egypt.
These churches, richly adorned inside, are real treasures which, however, are not distinguished by their exterior ornamentation.
Itinerary:
Departure in the morning by private air-conditioned car to visit:
The Hanging Church (Al Moallaqua)
Built towards the end of the 4th century, above the south portal of the Roman fortress of Babylon.
It is one of the most beautiful churches in Cairo, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
It has around 110 icons.
St. George's Greek Orthodox Church
Built on the ruins of an old church, dedicated to the Martyr since the 10th century.
Built on one of the two towers of the gate of the fortress of Babylon.
It is a circular church whose roof takes the form of a large dome.
The fort of Babylon
Built by Emperor Trajan in 98 BC. JC
It was built of fired bricks and stones arranged in alternating layers.
The church of Abu Serga (St. Sergius)
It is built on the place where the Holy Family had lived during their flight into Egypt.
It is a basilica built at the beginning of the 4th century above the cave where the Holy Family settled and, therefore, represents a blessed place where visitors come to meditate.
It bears the name of Saints Serge and Bakhus who were martyred soldiers at the beginning of the 10th century.
The Ben Ezra Synagogue
She was among the Coptic churches that belonged to the Moallaqua Church.
According to the Jews this synagogue was built before JC and the prophet Moses lived in this neighborhood.
The old synagogue was destroyed and a church was built in its place.
Later, the Jews bought the church and turned it back into a synagogue.
The Coptic Museum
At the end of the route, you will visit the Coptic Museum.
The exterior entrance to the Museum is in the west gate of the Babylonian Fortress.
The Coptic Museum contains 14,000 ancient pieces of Coptic art.
It is the richest museum in the world in Coptic art thanks to an important collection, fabrics, icons and manuscripts.
The pieces are displayed chronologically in twelve different sections.
The museum also presents different aspects of Hellenic, Nubian and Islamic civilizations.
Starting point:
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Hotels in downtown Cairo or Giza.
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Departure time: 9:00 am in the morning.
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Earlier or later departures are available.
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Back to the starting point.
Cost:
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65 dollars per person.
Prices are indicative and for a minimum of 2 people.
(15% reduction from 3 to 5 people.)
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Visits include:
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Entrances to the sites, trips by private vehicle and the services of a private French-speaking guide.
* Tips are not included.