St. Mary Church - A Spiritual Haven in Old Cairo
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St. Mary Church in Old Cairo, a cornerstone of Coptic heritage and spirituality.
St. Mary Church, known as Kasreyet El-Rehan, stands as a magnificent beacon of Coptic Christianity in the bustling district of Old Cairo. This historic church, with its stunning architecture and intricate frescoes, invites visitors to step into a realm of spirituality and art. The church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that narrates the rich history of the Coptic community in Egypt. As you approach the church, the serene atmosphere envelops you, making it a perfect sanctuary for those seeking peace amidst the city's chaos. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful icons and artwork that reflect the deep-rooted traditions of Coptic Christianity. The craftsmanship of the frescoes is a sight to behold, showcasing biblical scenes that have been preserved for centuries. Visitors can spend time admiring the details and immersing themselves in the tranquil ambiance that this sacred space offers. The church is surrounded by lush gardens, providing a refreshing escape where one can reflect and meditate. St. Mary Church is also an active place of worship, with regular services that reflect the vibrant community life of the Copts. This gives tourists a unique opportunity to witness local religious practices and connect with the culture on a deeper level. As you explore Old Cairo, don’t miss the chance to visit this remarkable church, as it offers not only a glimpse into the past but also an experience that resonates with the spiritual heart of Egypt.
Local tips
- Visit during the morning for a quieter experience and to appreciate the serene atmosphere.
- Dress modestly out of respect for the religious significance of the site.
- Take time to explore the gardens surrounding the church for a peaceful retreat.
- Check the service timings if you wish to attend a mass or see local worship practices.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the church's history and significance.
A brief summary to St. Mary Church - Kasreyet El-Rehan
- 264J+QMP Coptic Cairo،, Old Cairo, Kom Ghorab, Cairo Governorate, EG
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7 am-6 pm
- Friday 7 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from the Giza Plateau, take the Pyramids Road (Al Haram) heading east. Continue on Al Haram until you reach the intersection with Al-Mohandessin Street. Turn left onto Al-Mohandessin Street, which will lead you into Old Cairo. Follow the signs for Coptic Cairo, and once you reach the area, look for the address '264J+QMP Coptic Cairo, Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo'. The church will be on your right. Parking might be available nearby, but be prepared for a small fee (around 10-20 EGP) depending on the location.
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Public Transportation
To reach St. Mary Church via public transportation, start at the Giza Plateau and take a microbus or taxi to the metro station at Giza. Board the Cairo Metro Line 2 (the red line) towards El-Marg. Change at the Sayeda Zeinab station to Line 1 (the green line) towards Helwan. Disembark at the Coptic Cairo station. From there, you can walk to the church, which is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. It's advisable to use navigation apps to help you find the exact walking route. The total cost for the metro ride should be around 10-15 EGP.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
For a more convenient option, consider using a taxi or ride-hailing service like Uber or Careem. Simply input the destination 'St. Mary Church - Kasreyet El-Rehan' or use the address '264J+QMP Coptic Cairo, Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo' in your app. The ride from Giza Plateau to the church should take around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost approximately 80-150 EGP.
Attractions Nearby to St. Mary Church - Kasreyet El-Rehan
- Church of Saint Menas (Cairo)
- Saint Barbara Church Complex
- Saint George Cemetery
- Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church
- St. George’s Shrine
- Synagogue Ben Ezra
- St. George's church
- The Coptic Museum
- Fortress of Babylon
- Souq El Fustat
- The Hanging Church
- Foustat Traditional Crafts Center
- Amr ibn al-As Mosque
- Darb 1718
- Fustat Old Cairo
Landmarks nearby to St. Mary Church - Kasreyet El-Rehan
- Red Sea Bookstores - مكتبة البحر الاحمر
- Roman Tower
- Amr ibn Al-A'as Masjid Jama
- رباط الأثار
- Giza
- Giza pyramids
- Egypt's Renaissance Statue
- Ibn Tulun Mosque
- Gayer-Anderson Museum
- Orman Garden
- سبيل وكتاب الست صالحة
- Nubian Village
- "Winds of Change" = your private English guide + personal driver in Cairo&Giza, Egypt
- EGYPTIANS WALKWAY - PH. 3
- Ablaq Palace