Luxury Cairo Old Coptic Church and Monastery St Simon Cave Church

Enjoy the captivating history and architectural splendor of Cairo’s ancient religious sites on this comprehensive tour. From the iconic Hanging Church to the enigmatic Ben Ezra Synagogue, you’ll uncover the diverse tapestry of faiths that have shaped this vibrant city. With expert Egyptologist guides leading the way, you’ll explore the captivating narratives that lie within these hallowed walls, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. Prepare to be enthralled as you explore the hidden gems of Cairo’s spiritual heritage, uncovering the stories that have stood the test of time.

Good To Know

• This half-day tour focuses on Coptic, Jewish, and pre-Christian attractions in Old Cairo, including the 3rd-century Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue.
• The tour is led by qualified Egyptologist guides and includes private vehicle transport with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Highlights of the tour include the Hanging Church, known for its intricate wooden carvings and ornate iconostasis, and the 9th-century Ben Ezra Synagogue.
• The Monastery of St. Simon, with its stunning cave church in the Mokattam hills, is another prominent attraction on the tour.
• The tour is highly rated, with 4.8 stars from 44 reviews, and is recommended by 98% of travelers, offering a captivating journey through Cairo’s religious heritage.

Overview of the Tour

The tour is titled "Luxury Cairo Old Coptic Church and Monastery St Simon Cave Church" and has an impressive 4.8-star rating from 44 reviews.

It’s recommended by 98% of travelers and focuses on Coptic, Jewish, and pre-Christian attractions in Old Cairo.

The highlights include the 3rd-century Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue.

This half-day tour includes all entrance fees, snacks, beverages, bottled water, and private vehicle transport with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Pricing starts at $13.60 per person, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is led by qualified Egyptologist guides, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

This half-day tour includes all entrance fees, snacks, beverages, bottled water, and private vehicle transport with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Prices start from $13.60, discounted from $17.00, and vary depending on group size. There’s an additional $30 charge for pickups outside Cairo downtown or Giza.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Qualified Egyptologist guides are provided, ensuring a private tour experience with just your group.

Guide and Transportation

Qualified Egyptologist guides are provided for the tour, ensuring a private tour experience with just your group.

These knowledgeable guides escort visitors through the Coptic, Jewish, and pre-Christian attractions in Old Cairo.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Travelers should note the additional costs for pickups outside the Cairo downtown or Giza areas, which can add $30 to the overall price.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Positive reviews from past travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides, safe driving, and informative nature of the tour.

Travelers commonly praise guides like Doaa, Marcil, and Mona for their expertise and personal touch. Participants have enjoyed visiting notable sites such as St. Simon Monastery, Garbage City, and traditional Egyptian food experiences.

However, a few reviews mention issues with certain guides, particularly regarding language barriers and engagement.

Travelers are advised to confirm guide arrangements to avoid potential issues, as the tour experience can vary depending on the assigned guide.

Exploring the Coptic Churches

Although the tour primarily focuses on Coptic Christian sites, visitors can also explore the Jewish and pre-Christian heritage of Old Cairo.

The Hanging Church, dating back to the 3rd century AD, is a highlight, showcasing the architectural style of early Coptic churches. The Ben Ezra Synagogue, built in the 9th century, provides a glimpse into Cairo’s Jewish history.

The tour also includes a visit to the Monastery of St. Simon, renowned for its stunning cave church carved into the Mokattam hills.

Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides who bring these ancient sites to life, providing a comprehensive understanding of Cairo’s diverse religious and cultural legacy.

The Significance of the Hanging Church

The Hanging Church, also known as the Suspended Church or the Church of the Virgin Mary, stands as a remarkable testament to Coptic architectural ingenuity.

Built in the 3rd century AD, it’s named for its unique location atop an ancient Roman fortress. This elevated position, accessible by a flight of stairs, gives the church its distinctive appearance.

The Hanging Church is renowned for its intricate wooden carvings, ornate iconostasis, and important role in Coptic Christian history.

It remains a popular destination for visitors seeking to enjoy the rich cultural and religious heritage of Old Cairo.

Unraveling the Mystery of Ben Ezra Synagogue

Amidst the winding streets of Old Cairo, the Ben Ezra Synagogue stands as a captivating relic of the city’s rich Jewish heritage.

This ancient house of worship, dating back to the 9th century, has weathered the sands of time, bearing witness to the ebbs and flows of Egypt’s diverse religious tapestry.

The synagogue’s architectural grandeur, with its intricate carvings and ornate design, captivates visitors.

Three key features of the Ben Ezra Synagogue:

1. The Geniza: A repository of medieval Jewish manuscripts discovered in the synagogue’s storeroom, offering invaluable insights into the community’s history.
2. The Water Wheel: An ingenious water system that once provided the synagogue with a reliable water source.
3. The Hanging Torah Ark: A remarkable architectural element that showcases the synagogue’s enduring legacy.

Practical Tips and Additional Information

Visitors to the Cairo Old Coptic Church and Monastery St Simon Cave Church can expect a captivating journey through the city’s rich religious heritage.

Those booking the tour should confirm guide arrangements to ensure a seamless experience. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and modest clothing when visiting sacred sites.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults. Guests should also be prepared to pay an additional $30 for pickups outside the Cairo downtown or Giza areas.

With knowledgeable Egyptologist guides, private transportation, and a focus on Coptic, Jewish, and pre-Christian attractions, this half-day excursion offers an immersive look into Cairo’s diverse spiritual past.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Suitable Is This Tour for Families With Young Children?

The tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it includes snacks, beverages, and private vehicle transport. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, so families should consider accessibility needs for their children. Contact the tour provider for more details on child-friendly arrangements.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for Visiting the Churches?

There are typically modest dress code requirements when visiting churches in Cairo. Visitors are generally expected to wear long pants or skirts and cover their shoulders. The tour operator can provide guidance on appropriate attire.

Do the Tours Accommodate Travelers With Mobility or Dietary Restrictions?

The tours generally accommodate travelers with mobility restrictions, though they may not be fully wheelchair accessible. Dietary restrictions can often be accommodated with advance notice, but travelers should confirm details with the tour provider.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Tailored to Specific Interests?

The tours can be customized to specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who may be able to adjust the itinerary or focus based on the group’s interests, such as Coptic Christian sites or archaeological interests.

What Is the Process for Booking and Paying for This Tour Experience?

The tour can be booked directly through the tour provider. Travelers pay a per-person rate that varies based on group size. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Additional fees apply for pickups outside the Cairo downtown area.

The Sum Up

The "Luxury Cairo Old Coptic Church and Monastery St Simon Cave Church" tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Cairo’s rich religious heritage. Visitors can discover iconic landmarks like the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue, guided by knowledgeable Egyptologists. With convenient inclusions and transport, this half-day experience caters to history enthusiasts and cultural explorers seeking an insightful and hassle-free journey through Cairo’s diverse religious past.