The Hanging Church: A Majestic Journey Through Time
Discover the captivating history and stunning architecture of The Hanging Church in Old Cairo, a testament to Coptic Christian heritage.
The Hanging Church, or Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church, is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Cairo. Perched high above the ground on the ruins of a Roman fortress, this remarkable structure dates back to the 3rd century AD, making it one of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt. Visitors are welcomed by a stunning entrance adorned with beautiful wooden carvings that hint at the splendid artistry inside. Once inside, guests are treated to breathtaking views of ancient architecture, highlighted by an exquisite wooden ceiling made from cedar wood, designed to resemble Noah's Ark. Each corner of the church is filled with vibrant icons and intricate frescoes depicting biblical scenes, offering a glimpse into the religious significance of the site. Beyond its architectural beauty, The Hanging Church holds a deep historical significance for Coptic Christians. It is believed to be built on the site where the Holy Family took refuge during their flight into Egypt. This connection to early Christianity adds a layer of spiritual depth to your visit, inviting contemplation and reverence. The church is also home to several relics and artifacts that tell the story of the Coptic faith and its resilience through centuries of change. Visitors can explore the adjacent Coptic Museum for a more comprehensive understanding of the Coptic heritage. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, The Hanging Church is situated within a vibrant neighborhood rich in history. The surrounding area is filled with bustling markets and traditional eateries, allowing tourists to experience the local cuisine and hospitality. Plan your visit to coincide with one of the church's services or events to witness the community's devotion and participate in a truly unique cultural experience.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Dress modestly out of respect for the sacred environment.
- Take time to explore the nearby Coptic Museum for a deeper understanding of Coptic history.
- Check the church's schedule for special services or events for a unique cultural experience.
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
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start your journey from the Giza Plateau heading east on the Pyramids Road (Al-Haram Street). Continue straight until you reach the intersection with the Ring Road. Turn right onto the Ring Road and follow the signs towards Cairo. After about 17 km, exit towards Old Cairo. Follow the signs for 'Old Cairo' and continue on the road until you reach Kom Ghorab Street. The Hanging Church will be located on your left at Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo. Parking may be limited in the area, so look for nearby parking spots or street parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach The Hanging Church using public transportation, start at the Giza Plateau and take a taxi or Uber to the nearest metro station, which is the 'Giza' station on Line 2 (the red line). From there, take the metro towards 'El-Marg'. At 'Sadat' station, switch to Line 1 (the blue line) towards 'Helwan'. Get off at 'Marg' station. Once you exit, you can take a taxi or a local minibus directly to Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo. The fare for the metro is around 5 EGP, while a taxi from the metro station to The Hanging Church may cost approximately 30-50 EGP depending on traffic.
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Walking from Nearby Attractions
If you're visiting nearby attractions like the Citadel of Saladin, you can walk to The Hanging Church. From the Citadel, head southeast on Salah Salem Street. Continue walking straight until you reach the intersection with Kom Ghorab Street. Turn left, and The Hanging Church will be about a 15-minute walk ahead on your left. This walk is approximately 1.2 km long and is a pleasant way to explore the local area.
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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Giza
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Giza pyramids
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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
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سبيل وكتاب الست صالحة
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Nubian Village
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"Winds of Change" = your private English guide + personal driver in Cairo&Giza, Egypt
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EGYPTIANS WALKWAY - PH. 3
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Pyramid