Archdiocese of Sinai, Pharan, and Raitho, Eastern Orthodox archdiocese at Mount Sinai, Egypt
The Archdiocese of Sinai, Pharan, and Raitho is an Eastern Orthodox administrative body centered at Saint Catherine's Monastery at the base of Mount Sinai in a remote desert region of Egypt. The monastery serves as the administrative center and houses several dependent religious institutions spread across a large territory.
Saint Catherine's Monastery was founded by order of Emperor Justinian I between 527 and 565 to protect a chapel near the site of the burning bush. This monastic establishment laid the foundation for the religious structure that continues in this region today.
Greek remains the primary language in worship and administration, reflecting centuries of continuous Hellenistic religious traditions. This language shapes the daily religious life and practices of the community that lives here.
The monastery sits in an isolated desert region, so planning ahead is essential for any visit. Visitors should prepare for extreme heat and limited food options, as on-site conditions require care and patience.
The monastery library holds around 4,000 manuscripts and ancient religious texts, including some of the earliest Christian icons still in existence. This collection makes the monastery an extraordinary repository of rare religious and artistic works from early Christianity.
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