Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is a historic district in Old Cairo featuring ancient churches, a synagogue, and remnants of the Roman Babylon Fortress, showcasing centuries of Egyptian Christian heritage and architecture within its narrow pedestrian streets and religious monuments.

The area was originally home to the Babylon Fortress built by the Romans around 100 AD to guard a strategic canal connecting the Nile to the Red Sea, and it later became the center of early Christian worship in Egypt before the Arab conquest in 641 AD.

Coptic Cairo remains the spiritual heart of Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Christian community, hosting churches that trace their origins to the 4th century and preserving traditions that include annual festivals commemorating the Holy Family's stay in Egypt.

Visitors can reach Coptic Cairo by metro at the Mar Girgis station or by car, with most churches open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and the Coptic Museum operating from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though dining options within the district are limited.

The Hanging Church appears suspended above the ground because it was constructed over the ancient Roman fortress gatehouse, and it features a wooden ceiling designed to resemble Noah's Ark with 12 pillars representing the Apostles.

Location: Cairo Governorate

Location: South Area

Location: Old Cairo

Part of: Al-Fustat

GPS coordinates: 30.00630,31.23180

Latest update: November 28, 2025 15:19