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The Red Monastery: A Coptic Treasure

Explore the Red Monastery: A journey through early Christian art and architecture in the heart of Egypt's Sohag.

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The Red Monastery, near Sohag, is an important early Christian monastery named for its red brick construction. Founded in the 4th century AD, it's known for its well-preserved vibrant frescoes, offering a glimpse into the art and culture of the Byzantine era.

A brief summary to The Red Monastery

  • HJ39+WX9 دير الانبا بيجول والانبا بشاى, Sohag, ADFA, Sohag Governorate, EG
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Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a religious site.
  • Photography inside the church may be restricted to preserve the frescoes; ask for permission before taking photos.
  • Combine your visit with the nearby White Monastery for a comprehensive experience of early Christian monasticism in the area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Sohag, take a public microbus from the Monastery Lot (mawgif al-dayr). These microbuses are an economical way to reach the Red Monastery, covering the 21 km distance. Negotiate the fare before departure, as prices may vary. The ride provides a glimpse into local life and the surrounding rural landscape.

  • Taxi

    Taxis offer a direct and convenient option from Sohag to the Red Monastery. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The cost for a one-way trip is approximately 50-75 EGP, depending on your negotiation skills and the taxi driver. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes.

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Discover more about The Red Monastery

The Red Monastery, officially the Monastery of Apa Psoi, stands as a remarkable testament to early Christian monasticism in Egypt. Located 21 kilometers west of Sohag, its name derives from the red brick used for its exterior walls. Founded in the 4th century AD by Saint Pishoy, a contemporary of Saint Pigol, founder of the White Monastery, it is one of the most important monasteries established during Christianity's early history. Inside, the monastery's church terminates in a tripartite structure adorned with murals painted with tempera, depicting biblical scenes featuring Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, the Four Gospels, and the Apostles. These ancient wall paintings, dating back to the 10th and 12th centuries, showcase vibrant colors and intricate designs, offering invaluable insights into the religious and cultural life of the period. The frescoes have survived for 1,500 years, because they were covered by an interior wall for over a millennium. The quality and extent of the surviving work has led this chapel to be likened to the Aya Sofya in Istanbul and the church of Ravenna as one of the great surviving monuments of late antiquity. The Red Monastery is not only a historical site but also a functioning monastery that serves the Coptic community. It attracts many visitors annually, including tourists and official envoys, drawn to its unique architectural style and historical significance.

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