About Monastery of Saint Anthony
Saint Anthony the Great, often called the father of Christian monasticism, withdrew into the Eastern Desert in the late third century to live as a hermit. After his death his followers founded a community at the foot of the Galala mountains, and Coptic monks have lived there ever since. The fortified monastery encloses churches, gardens, a spring and living quarters. The monastery was once fortified against raids. Its walls are high and thick.
The Church of Saint Anthony contains a cycle of thirteenth century wall paintings, beautifully restored in the 1990s. High above the monastery, a climb of more than a thousand steps leads to the cave where Anthony prayed in solitude. Pilgrims come especially for his feast day, and monks often guide visitors through the compound. From the cave entrance the view stretches over the desert toward the Gulf of Suez on clear days.
What to see
- Restored medieval wall paintings
- Cave of Saint Anthony
- Ancient keep and fortifications
- Spring and monastery gardens
- Nearby Monastery of Saint Paul
Visiting Monastery of Saint Anthony: practical guide
- Best time
- October to April
- Hours
- Generally open daily; closed during Lent and some fasts
- Entry
- Free; donations welcome
- Dress code
- Modest clothing covering arms and legs
- Nearest airport
- Cairo International Airport (CAI), 330 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Start the cave climb early to avoid the heat
- Combine with the Monastery of Saint Paul about 30 km away
- Confirm opening before travel during fasting periods
Festivals and special days
- Feast of Saint Anthony on 30 January (22 Tobi)
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 Monastery of Saint Anthony?
Monastery of Saint Anthony is in Zafarana, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt, Africa. GPS coordinates: 28.9247, 32.3489. The nearest airport is Cairo International Airport (CAI), 330 km.
What is the best time to visit Monastery of Saint Anthony?
October to April
Is there an entry fee for Monastery of Saint Anthony?
Free; donations welcome Opening hours: Generally open daily; closed during Lent and some fasts
What should I wear when visiting Monastery of Saint Anthony?
Modest clothing covering arms and legs
Which religion is Monastery of Saint Anthony sacred to?
Monastery of Saint Anthony is sacred to Christianity. Active place of worship.
