THE BLUE FIG CITY GUIDE / CAIRO

Coptic Christianity / Architecture

Cairo’s Coptic Christian heritage is woven into the city’s history. Around Old Cairo, churches, monasteries and the remains of the Roman fortress of Babylon sit close together, while the wider city is home to remarkable newer places of worship. This guide focuses on the architecture and places of Coptic Christianity in Greater Cairo.

Approach these sites as living places of worship as well as heritage destinations. Access can vary around services and religious holidays; dress modestly, follow local guidance and ask before taking photographs inside.

Hanging Church

The Hanging Church is one of the best-known churches in Coptic Cairo. Built above the southern gatehouse of the Roman fortress of Babylon, it is celebrated for its timber roof, icons and layered history.

Photo: Bertramz · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

Church of Abu Serga

Also known as Saints Sergius and Bacchus, Abu Serga is among the oldest churches in Cairo. Its crypt and traditional basilica plan are central to the religious history of Coptic Cairo.

Photo: Faris knight · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Church of St George

The Church of St George is part of the historic religious quarter around the Roman fortress. Its distinctive round form makes it stand out among the churches of Old Cairo.

Photo: Aude · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0

Saint Barbara Church

Dedicated to Saint Barbara, this church is known for its carved wooden screen, icons and richly detailed interior. It is one of the historic Coptic churches clustered within Old Cairo.

Photo: upyernoz · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

Church of Saint Simon the Tanner

Carved into the Mokattam hills, the Monastery of Saint Simon is an extraordinary modern Coptic Christian complex, with a vast amphitheatre-like church set within the rock.

Photo: Fadyashrafmahfouz · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Saint George in Coptic Cairo

A closer look inside the Church of St George, where icons, religious furnishings and the church interior offer a sense of the living tradition of Coptic worship.

Photo: Alessiaazari · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Further reading: Wikimedia Commons: Coptic Cairo image collection · UNESCO: Historic Cairo