Our Lady of Heliopolis Co-Cathedral, Catholic cathedral in Heliopolis, Egypt
Our Lady of Heliopolis is a cathedral in Heliopolis featuring Byzantine Revival design that blends Eastern Orthodox influences with grand architectural forms. The structure showcases large domes, rounded arches, and a distinctive southwest-facing facade that reflects these mixed stylistic traditions.
Baron Édouard Empain commissioned this cathedral in 1911 and selected architect Ernest Jaspar to design it. The building was constructed as part of Empain's broader vision for developing modern Heliopolis.
This cathedral serves as the spiritual center for Heliopolis's Catholic community, hosting daily worship and celebrations that draw both locals and visitors. The building anchors Catholic life in this predominantly Muslim neighborhood, creating a distinctive religious space.
The cathedral is located on Al-Ahram Square and is accessible to visitors during daytime hours, requiring about one hour to explore the architecture and interior spaces. Plan your visit outside worship times to view the building comfortably and respectfully.
The cathedral houses a crypt containing the remains of Baron Empain and his family members, directly connecting the building to Heliopolis's founder. This burial place transforms the structure into a permanent memorial to the visionary who created the neighborhood.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
