Deir el-Anba Samu'il

The monastery stands at an elevation of 36 meters on the northern edge of Wadi el-Muweiliḥ valley, along a historical caravan route between Minya and Faiyum.

The monastery dates back to the early 4th century when hermits settled in caves during Christian persecution under Emperor Diocletian, forming a monastic community by the 5th century.

Monks at the monastery maintain traditional Coptic Orthodox practices, preserving religious manuscripts and conducting daily services in accordance with ancient Egyptian Christian traditions.

The monastery contains multiple chapels, monk cells, defensive towers, and agricultural areas where approximately one hundred monks currently reside and maintain the grounds.

The site holds relics of St. Bisada and St. Dumadius, alongside personal belongings of Father Andraus of Samueliten, who served the monastery despite being blind.

Location: Beni Suef Governorate

Elevation above the sea: 36 m

Website: http://stsamuel.monastery.free.fr

GPS coordinates: 28.90860,30.50526

Latest update: March 4, 2025 11:22