The Hanging Church: A Jewel of Coptic Heritage
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of The Hanging Church, a key site of Coptic heritage in Old Cairo.
A brief summary to The Hanging Church
- Old Cairo, Kom Ghorab, Cairo Governorate, EG
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
The Hanging Church, or Saint Virgin Mary's Church, is a significant landmark in Old Cairo, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles that reflects its long history. This church, built above the ruins of a Roman fortress, is named for its elevated position, which gives it a striking appearance. As one of the oldest Coptic churches in Egypt, it dates back to the 3rd century and has been a center of Coptic Christianity for centuries. Inside, visitors are greeted by a tranquil ambiance, with beautifully crafted wooden ceilings and a collection of exquisite icons that depict various saints and scenes from the Bible. The church is particularly famous for its stunning altar and intricate wooden screen that separates the sanctuary from the congregation area. In addition to its architectural beauty, The Hanging Church is steeped in history and spirituality, making it a pilgrimage site for many. The church hosts various religious services and celebrations, allowing visitors to experience the living tradition of Coptic worship. The surrounding area of Old Cairo, rich in history and culture, adds depth to the visit, with other nearby attractions such as the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Coptic Museum. The Hanging Church is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the resilience and continuity of the Coptic community throughout the centuries. For those exploring the vibrant streets of Old Cairo, The Hanging Church offers a captivating journey into Egypt's religious heritage, inviting tourists to reflect on its significance and enjoy its serene atmosphere. Make sure to take your time to appreciate the details of this historic site, and consider visiting during a service to witness the church's vibrant community life.
Local tips
- Visit the church during weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Dress modestly, as this is a place of worship.
- Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding historic area.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning interiors, but be respectful of the worshippers.
- Check the church's schedule for any special services or events during your visit.
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Cairo Metro Line 1 (the red line) towards El Marg. Get off at the 'Sadat' station, which is located in Tahrir Square. From there, transfer to Line 2 (the yellow line) at the 'Sadat' station. Travel towards 'El Mounib' and get off at 'Mohamed Naguib' station. Exit the station and head towards the direction of 'Coptic Cairo'. You can take a taxi or a local bus from here, or continue walking towards Old Cairo.
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Walking from Metro
If you choose to walk after getting off at 'Mohamed Naguib', head south towards the Coptic Museum. Follow the signs leading to Old Cairo, which is about a 30-minute walk. As you approach the Coptic Museum, you will find signs leading you to The Hanging Church, which is situated on Kom Ghorab Street. Continue walking straight until you reach the church.
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Public Bus
From Tahrir Square, look for bus stops around the square. Catch a bus that goes to 'Old Cairo' or 'Coptic Cairo'. Ask the bus driver to drop you off near The Hanging Church. It’s advisable to have the name written in Arabic (الكنيسة المعلقة) to show to the bus driver. Once you get off, follow the signs to The Hanging Church, which is within walking distance.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hail a taxi from anywhere in Cairo. Ask the driver to take you to 'The Hanging Church' in Old Cairo (الكنيسة المعلقة). Make sure to confirm the fare or ask the driver to use the meter. The ride should take about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to The Hanging Church
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Fortress of Babylon
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The Coptic Museum
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Synagogue Ben Ezra
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St. George's church
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Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church
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Saint Barbara Church Complex
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Church of Saint Menas (Cairo)
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St. George’s Shrine
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Saint George Cemetery
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St. Mary Church - Kasreyet El-Rehan
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Darb 1718
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رحلة عشاء نيلية - Nile boat cruise
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Souq El Fustat
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Foustat Traditional Crafts Center
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Rawda Island Nilometer
Landmarks nearby to The Hanging Church
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Roman Tower
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Red Sea Bookstores - مكتبة البحر الاحمر
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رباط الأثار
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Amr ibn Al-A'as Masjid Jama
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The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
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Magra El Oyoun aqueduct
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Giza
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Giza pyramids
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برج الساعة
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Prince Mohamed Ali Palace (Al Manial Palace)
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Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i
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Egypt's Renaissance Statue
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Orman Garden
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Ibn Tulun Mosque
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Gayer-Anderson Museum