Abu Serga Church is considered one of the oldest churches in Egypt. It is located in the Old Cairo district, next to the Hanging Church and close to Ben Ezra Synagogue. This church has several names as the Cavern Church, the St. Sergius Church, or Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church.
The history of this church:
The church is dedicated to Sergius and Bacchus, who were martyred during the fourth century AD in Syria by the Roman Emperor Maximian.
This church was built in the fourth century AD and completed in the fifth century AD. Later, the church got burned during the fire of Fustat in the period of Marwan II around 750 AD. Then it was restored and rebuilt in the eighth century AD.
The importance of this church:
In this church, there is the cave where the Holy Family (Virgin Mary, Christ, and Joseph) hid during their journey for escaping to Egypt from Roman persecution. They rested in this cave, which is 10 meters deep. This church was built on this cave because of its sanctity.
This cave consists of a courtyard, two passages with a vaulted ceiling, and at the end of the southern passage of the cave, there is a baptism.
Abu Serga Church celebrates every year on the first of June the anniversary of the journey of the Holy Family to Egypt.
The design of this church:
This church was built in the basilica style and consists of three parts: the corridor, the courtyard, and the sanctuary (the cave located below the sanctuary). The two passages are separated by 12 columns with Corinthian crowns. This church is distinguished by its precious icons.
On the northeastern side, there is a pulpit made of marble and this pulpit is used once a year on the Good Friday prayer.
you can visit Abu Serga Church with Cairo Attractions in 5 Days
