About Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church
Old Cairo grew around the Roman fortress of Babylon, and its walled quarter remains the heart of Egypt's Coptic Orthodox heritage. The Church of the Virgin Mary, known as the Hanging Church or al-Muallaqa, is perched above a gatehouse of the fortress. It has served at times as the seat of the Coptic patriarch, and its interior has fine wooden screens inlaid with ivory. Visitors climb a staircase to reach it.
Nearby, the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus holds a crypt where the Holy Family is believed to have rested during their flight into Egypt. The Ben Ezra Synagogue, where the famous Cairo Geniza documents were found, shows the long Jewish presence. The Coptic Museum displays textiles, manuscripts and icons, and the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As stands just to the north. Narrow lanes connect these sites. They reward slow exploration.
What to see
- The Hanging Church and its icon screen
- Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus crypt
- Ben Ezra Synagogue
- Coptic Museum
- Mosque of Amr ibn al-As
Visiting Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church: practical guide
- Best time
- October to April
- Hours
- Churches open daily, roughly 9:00 to 16:00; museum hours vary
- Entry
- Churches free; Coptic Museum charges a fee
- Dress code
- Shoulders and knees covered
- Nearest airport
- Cairo International Airport (CAI), 25 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Take the metro to Mar Girgis station
- Visit Sunday morning to hear Coptic liturgy
- Expect security checks at entrances
Festivals and special days
- Coptic Christmas on 7 January
- Feast of the Entry of the Holy Family into Egypt on 1 June
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church?
Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church is in Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt, Africa. GPS coordinates: 30.0053, 31.2302. The nearest airport is Cairo International Airport (CAI), 25 km.
What is the best time to visit Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church?
October to April
Is there an entry fee for Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church?
Churches free; Coptic Museum charges a fee Opening hours: Churches open daily, roughly 9:00 to 16:00; museum hours vary
What should I wear when visiting Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church?
Shoulders and knees covered
Which religion is Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church sacred to?
Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church is sacred to Christianity, Judaism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
