The Hanging Church: An Ancient Wonder in Cairo

Name: Hanging Church
Address: Cairo Governorate, 4244001, EG
Rating: 4.7

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The Hanging Church: An Ancient Wonder in Cairo

Overview

The Hanging Church, known as El Muallaqa, is a remarkable example of architectural ingenuity in Cairo, constructed atop the remnants of a Roman fortress. Dating back to the 7th century, this historic church stands suspended over a passage, showcasing a rich Coptic heritage as it once served as the residence for the Coptic Patriarch of Alexandria from the 7th to the 13th centuries. Upon entry through a beautifully adorned gateway, visitors are greeted by a serene courtyard adorned with vibrant mosaics. Ascend the 29 steps to reach the main entrance and admire the rare ark-shaped timber roof. Within its sacred interiors, you will find three sanctuaries dedicated to St. George, the Virgin Mary, and John the Baptist, alongside treasures like the 8th-century Coptic Mona Lisa. The intricate decor, from the 101 icons to the marble pulpit representing the 12 disciples, offers a captivating glimpse into the spiritual and artistic legacy of this ancient church.

Reviews

Mohamed

Egypt

This church is incredibly unique and ancient! Both the interior and exterior have ornate details. There are many wooden carvings inside that contribute to its beauty! The space is quite large inside. We highly recommend visiting if you find yourself in Cairo.

Ahmed

Egypt

I found it quite challenging to enjoy the visit due to the disruptive behavior of children. Parents were not managing them, and the noise was overwhelming. It got so disruptive that a caretaker had to appeal over the intercom for respect from the visitors. Such a shame since it is a beautiful building with a rich history.

Amina

Egypt

This church is stunning! I recommend visiting it along with nearby churches and the Coptic Museum for a half-day outing. The entrance is free, and there are toilets available on-site. We used Uber for transportation, which was a 30-minute ride costing about $3 each way.

Omar Hassan

Egypt

The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church) in Cairo is a historically significant site in Egypt's Coptic Christian Quarter. It is built atop the gatehouse of the Babylon Fortress, providing stunning views and impressive interiors filled with vibrant icons, frescoes, and intricate woodwork. As one of the oldest Coptic churches dating back to the 3rd century AD, it contains a rich array of Coptic artifacts and manuscripts. Nearby, you can explore other important landmarks such as the Coptic Museum and Ben Ezra Synagogue. This church is a must-visit for those interested in Egypt's Christian legacy and ancient architecture. It offers a profound spiritual and historical experience.

Hana Kadir

Egypt

The architecture and art here are fascinating and detailed inside and out. It is still a functioning Coptic Christian Church. The building is supported by two massive wooden beams over a former Roman structure, which is why it is called "hanging." You can see these beams at one particular spot.