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Hanging Church
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Landmark
The Hanging Church, officially known as Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church, is one of the oldest and most significant Christian landmarks in Cairo. It derives its name from its location above the gatehouse of the Roman Babylon Fortress, giving the impression that the nave is suspended over the passage below. The church's origins date back to the 3rd or 4th century, with the current structure primarily dating from the 7th century and undergoing various restorations since. Its interior is renowned for its magnificent wooden iconostases inlaid with ebony and ivory, as well as over 110 icons, some of which date to the 8th century. For centuries, it served as the seat of the Coptic Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria. The church is not only a place of deep spiritual importance but also a masterpiece of Coptic art and architecture, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.
- Location: Egypt
- Top sights: Darb 1718 · Egyptian Geological Museum · Fisher Boats
- Nearby: Al Hawamdeya (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 25 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 19 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 17 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Visitors are welcome to enter this historic Coptic Orthodox church, admiring its wooden roof shaped like Noah's Ark and the ancient iconostasis. As it is an active place of worship, appropriate and respectful attire covering shoulders and knees is required for all guests.
Typical hours
The church is generally open to visitors daily from morning until late afternoon, though access may be temporarily restricted or limited during Sunday masses and significant religious holidays. Check locally for exact timings around Easter and Christmas.
Photography
Photography without flash is typically permitted inside the main areas of the church, allowing you to capture the remarkable icons and architecture. However, always be respectful and avoid taking photos during services or of individuals in prayer.
Time needed
A visit to the Hanging Church itself usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the level of crowding and your interest in the detailed icons. If you are exploring the wider Coptic Cairo area, you will easily need two to three hours overall.
Combine with
The church is perfectly situated to be combined with other sites within the Babylon Fortress enclosure, such as the Coptic Museum and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus. The nearby Ben Ezra Synagogue also adds another layer of rich religious history to your walking tour.
Getting there
The easiest and most stress-free way to arrive is via the Cairo Metro, alighting at the Mar Girgis station which drops you right at the entrance of the Coptic Cairo complex. Taxis and ride-sharing apps can also bring you close to the main gate, though traffic in the area can be dense.
Insider tip
Take a moment to step onto the glass panels installed in the floor of the church; they allow you to gaze down and actually see the ancient Roman gatehouse pillars upon which the entire structure is suspended.
Geography
Facts
- Built over the gates of Babylon Fortress
- Founded in the 3rd or 4th century AD
- Houses a collection of 110 historic icons
- Former seat of the Coptic Pope in Cairo
- Features ivory-inlaid wooden screens
- Accessible by climbing 29 stairs to the entrance
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Hanging Church (8)
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Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the 'Hanging Church'?
It was built over the gatehouse of the old Roman fortress of Babylon.
In which district is the church located?
It is located in the Coptic Quarter (Old Cairo).
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the church is free, donations are welcome.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, visitors should wear respectful, modest clothing.
Is photography allowed during services?
Photography is not allowed during services; otherwise, it is permitted without flash.
Hanging Church: where is it located?
Hanging Church is located in Egypt.
Hanging Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Darb 1718, Egyptian Geological Museum, Fisher Boats.
Hanging Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Hanging Church: why is it worth visiting?
The Hanging Church, officially known as Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church, is one of the oldest and most significant Christian landmarks in Cairo.
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