The “Hanging Church” is one of the most famous and oldest Coptic monuments in Egypt. Where the church is distinguished by the rare architectural style. That makes it one of the most beautiful churches in the Middle East. As the church represents the first house for the patriarchs in Cairo. Located in ancient Egypt next to the Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque. Stands tall on The ruins of an ancient Roman fortress dating back to the second century AD.

why its name is The Hanging Church?

The reason for calling it “The Hanging Church” is due to its construction on two ancient towers. From the Roman fortress known as the “Fortress of Babylon“. And the church was built at an altitude of 13 meters from the surface of the earth and an area of ​​23 meters. It also features a very unique architecture with its famous towers, which are designed in the style of Noah’s Ark.

Its religious and architectural importance

The mystery of the importance of this church is due not only to its great spiritual value to the Copts and Christians in Egypt and the world. But also to its unique historical location. Some suggest that the building of the Hanging Church is one of the places where the Holy Family. The Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ, and Saint Joseph the Carpenter resided during their stay in Egypt.

There are three structures in the church. they are: the middle bears the name of St. Mary the Virgin, the second is in the name of St. John the Baptist and the left is in the name of Saint Mar Gerges. And the drawings inside the church are very impressive.

Church inside

To reach the church, visitors must enter through iron gates into a courtyard decorated with biblical mosaics. At the end of the courtyard, you find a beautiful facade with two towers. The facade is a modern addition dating back to the nineteenth century. Inside, the church is divide into three main corridors. One of the highlights of the hanging church is the roof. Which is built of vaulted wood and is intended to resemble the interior of Noah’s Ark.

Another highlight is the marble minbar, supported by 13 marble columns. representing Jesus and his twelve disciples. One of the columns in black, depicting the betrayal of Judah. The other is gray, to represent Thomas’ suspicion upon hearing the resurrection.

The church is famous for its religious icons, of which 110 are still displayed inside its walls. The oldest and most famous icon is the Coptic Mona Lisa. It depicts the Virgin Mary and dates back to the eighth century. Many of the original relics of the Hanging Church have been removed and are now on display in the nearby Coptic Museum.

Visiting times

The church located in Coptic Cairo and is accessible via Mar Gerges Metro. From there, a few steps away from the Hanging Church. Also, visits include a tour of the Coptic Museum, which is two minutes from the church itself. The church is open every day from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. While the Coptic Liturgy held from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday and Friday. From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Sunday. Admission to the church is free.

Old Cairo Tour: http://www.anikiragtours.com/index.php/tours/old-cairo-day-use/