As the history of Egypt proves how the three heavenly religions have peacefully co-existed, the present still proves this fact. In the heart of the Egyptian capital, Cairo, lies the religious complex that gather some of the historic mosques, churches and Jewish temple all in the old Cairo neighborhood. As time passed by, the several religious building belonging to the three divine religions (Islam, Christianity and Judaism) held their status making the religious complex one of Cairo’s main touristic attractions for people from all around the world.
The complex, accessible by public transportations, is a family-friendly activity. The complex includes Amr Ibn El Aas mosque, the Synagogue Jewish temple, the Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church, Saint Barbra Church, Kasriet El Rayhan Church, Mary Girgis Church, the Coptic museum in addition to Babylon Fortress.
Amr Ibn El Aas mosque:
It is one of the oldest and largest Mosques in Africa and is the first mosque to be built in Egypt after Islam was introduced to the country. The Mosque wasn’t built as it is seen today, it was built of mud, mud-bricks and palm leaves.
The Synagogue Jewish temple:
It was turned into a church then returned to be a church after the Jewish community bought it under its leader Ibrahim Ben Ezra that’s why it is known as Ibrahim Ben Ezra temple. It is where Prophet Moses prayed so the temple is an important attractions for Jewish tourists.
The Babylon fortress:
It was built in the 2nd century by the Roman emperor Trajan and was reinforced 2 centuries later by emperor Arcadius. It was built to be the front defense line for Egypt’s eastern gates. The fortress includes the Coptic museum in addition to 6 churches and monastery.
The hanging Church:
It earned its name since it was built above the fortress at height of 13 meters to be the highest building in the area then. It was founded in the 5th century as a pharonic temple at the beginning. It is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Egypt.
Abu Serga Church:
It was built around the time when the hanging church was established. It was originally named after two famous soldiers who were killed in Syria under Emperor Maximinus named Sergius and Ahis.
Saint Barbra Church:
It is one of the most beautiful Coptic churches, it was built in the 14th century. It was named after Barbra who was born foe a rich family devoted her life to church and was martyred during the era of Emperor Maximinus.
Kasriet El Rayhan Church:
It was built in the 4th century and also known as the Virgin Mary church.
Mary Girgis Church:
It used to be one of the most beautiful churches inside the fortress when was built in 684 but it was burnt down 80 years ago leaving behind only a reception hall.
The Coptic museum:
It was built in 1910 for the purpose of gathering monumental collections dating back to the Christian era to facilitate studying the Christian history. It includes nearly 16000 pieces divided into 12 groups.
The complex is accessed for free. Note that there is no parking area or Wi-Fi service and smoking isn’t allowed.
