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Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Al-Muharraq)

Discover Al-Muharraq Monastery: a sacred Coptic site where the Holy Family found refuge, rich in history, ancient churches, and spiritual significance.

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The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Al-Muharraq, is a significant Coptic Orthodox monastery in Egypt, considered the place where the Holy Family spent over six months during their flight to Egypt. Located near El Qusiya in the Asyut Governorate, it's a major pilgrimage site and home to ancient churches and a rich library.

A brief summary to Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Muharraq)

  • 9QMH+XPH، شارع بيت بو عبد, El Qusiya, El-Ansar, Assiut Governorate, EG
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Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; as a religious site, respectful attire is required.
  • Photography inside the churches may be restricted; always ask for permission beforehand.
  • Consider visiting during the Feast of the Virgin in June for a vibrant religious experience, but expect larger crowds.
  • The monastery is an active religious site; be mindful of ongoing services and maintain a quiet demeanor.
  • Hire a local guide in Al-Qusiya for easier navigation to the monastery, as it is located in a remote area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Asyut city center, take a microbus to Al-Qusiya. Microbus fares are typically around 5 EGP. Upon arrival in Al-Qusiya, hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to the Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, located a few kilometers outside the town. Confirm the fare before starting your journey, but expect to pay around 20-30 EGP.

  • Taxi

    From Asyut, a taxi directly to the Monastery will cost approximately 150-200 EGP. Ensure the driver uses a meter or negotiate the fare beforehand. The journey takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Muharraq)

Nestled in the Asyut Governorate, approximately 60 km from Asyut and 327 km south of Cairo, the Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Al-Muharraq) stands as one of the most venerable and historically significant Coptic monasteries in Egypt. Its name, derived from the Arabic word for 'burnt,' reflects a history marked by partial destruction at the hands of foreign invaders. However, its spiritual importance far outweighs its physical trials. Al-Muharraq is revered as the place where the Holy Family, including the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus, sought refuge for over six months during their flight from Herod's persecution. Tradition holds that the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph here, instructing them to return to Israel. This sacred association has earned the monastery the affectionate title of 'Second Bethlehem' among Egyptian Copts. The monastery complex encompasses an area of 30 feddans and houses five churches, a substantial library, and living quarters for around 100 monks. The oldest and most significant church is the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary (al-Adra), believed to date back to the 1st century AD. It is said to be built over the cave where the Holy Family resided. Other notable structures include the Church of St. George, showcasing Byzantine-Greek iconographic styles, and the Church of the Archangel Michael, which was renovated in the 16th century. The monastery also features an ancient keep, a fortified tower used for defense during invasions. Throughout the year, Al-Muharraq celebrates all Coptic Orthodox feasts, with major celebrations during the Feast of the Virgin in June, drawing numerous visitors and pilgrims. The monastery's library is divided into two sections, one containing thousands of modern books and reference materials, and another housing ancient Coptic manuscripts. Despite a fire in 2013 that damaged parts of the monastery, efforts continue to preserve its invaluable historical and religious heritage.

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