The Hanging Church

The Hanging Church is the oldest and most famous church in Egypt. It is one of Egypt’s most important Christian tourist attractions. It is located in the Old Cairo district, next to the Babylon Fortress.

The history of the Hanging Church:

The church was originally built at the end of the third century AD and the beginning of the fourth century AD. It was rebuilt and restored several times.

Some historians believe that its history dates back to earlier than this date. They suppose that it may have been a Roman temple that was converted into a church later, as in 1984, the alplaster of the right corridor of the church was discovered. This corridor contains beneath it scenes of Roman gods.

The Hanging Church became the seat of the Coptic Pope at the beginning of the 11th century AD, but now the headquarters has been moved to Abbasiya.

The design of the church:

The hanging church was built on two towers of the Roman fortress of Babylon, so it was called the Hanging Church. It was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Diana.

The church begins with a wonderful star gate. Then a courtyard marked by mosaic icons that indicate the most important Christian events, such as the miracle of moving the Mokattam Mountain and the Holy Family’s journey.

Then you reach a staircase consisting of 29 steps. Then you see the distinctive ceiling of the church, which is made of cedar wood. It is said that this ceiling symbolizes Noah’s Ark as a symbol of peace and love.

Then you enter the church building, which is in the basilica style. It has a marble niche supported by 12 columns representing the apostles of Christ. At the end of the nave, there are 3 shrines of the Virgin Mary, Mary Gerges, and John the Baptist.