Coptic Cairo: Hanging Church, Abu Serga and Ben Ezra Synagogue (hours, duration, visit)
Coptic Cairo, in Old Cairo, packs the Hanging Church (al-Mu'allaqa), the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga), the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Coptic Museum into a few lanes. Allow 2 to 3 hours for everything. Sources agree that entry to the Hanging Church and Abu Serga is free (a donation is appreciated), from about 9am to 5pm, with a closure for services around 10:30am to 12pm; I found no reliable hours or fee for the synagogue. From Hurghada this is an excursion to Cairo (flight or long drive).
Highlights
The Hanging Church
Named because its nave is built above a passage; one of the best-known Coptic churches in Cairo.
Interior and facade
A short but dense visit: woodwork, icons and the atmosphere of a working place of worship; modest dress required.
Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga)
A 4th-century church according to the sources, linked in tradition to the stay of the Holy Family.
The Ben Ezra Synagogue
Built on the site of a 4th-century church according to a listing, and associated in tradition with the story of Moses. Entry price not confirmed: it is often included in excursions.
Practical info
Tips
- Dress properly (shoulders and knees covered): see dress code and mosques in Egypt. Arrive before 10:30am or after 12pm to avoid the service closure. The best-selling excursion pairs the district with the Citadel and Khan el-Khalili; otherwise a 3-hour guided visit of Old Cairo exists. From Hurghada, see Cairo by plane from Hurghada. For the rest of Cairo: Cairo Citadel and Khan el-Khalili. Site details and hours can change: confirm on the spot.
How to get there
In Old Cairo, south of the centre; Mar Girgis metro station is the nearest. From Hurghada: flight to Cairo (day trip) or coach/transfer (Hurghada to Cairo by bus).
Opening hours
Nearby
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