Old Cairo is part of what is known as “Historic Cairo” or “Islamic Cairo”, it is also an open space that combines many features of architecture from different periods in Egypt.
Old Cairo
Where is Old Cairo located?
In general, Old Cairo (Misr al-Qadima) includes the area south of the Garden City neighborhood, up to the neighborhood known to foreigners as Coptic Cairo. Most visitors go directly to the latter. From there you can also visit the mosque of Umar ibn al-As.
In this traditional area of Cairo, it is essential to dress appropriately. Visitors, men or women wearing shorts or showing their shoulders are not allowed to enter churches or mosques.
How to get to Old Cairo?
The Mar Girgis station is next to the Coptic Cairo compound. It is much more convenient than crowded buses. A slow but pleasant option is to take a river bus. Vamos Viajando can transport you in a private and comfortable vehicle for this tour.
When is the best day to visit Old Cairo?
The liveliest day to visit is Sunday when the Coptic Cairoites come here to attend mass; however, if you prefer to enjoy a stroll, Fridays and Sundays should be avoided. The churches do not charge admission, but almost all have places to give alms.
What places can be visited in Old Cairo?
Roman towers. The main entrance to the Coptic compound is between the remains of the two round towers of the western gate of Babylon. The towers were part of the fortifications on the banks of the river; at that time, the Nile reached here.
Coptic Museum. Founded in 1908, this museum houses Coptic art from the Greco-Roman to the Islamic era in a collection gathered from all over Egypt.
Hanging Church. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it is located in the Coptic Quarter. Its name comes from the fact that it was built on top of the Water Gate of Roman Babylon.
Monastery and Church of St. George. Of Greek Orthodox cult. St. George (Mar Girgis) is one of the most popular Christian saints in the region. Since the 10th century, there has been a church dedicated to him in Coptic Cairo; this one dates from 1909. The monastery remains continuous.
Convent of St. George. Located in the Coptic quarter is located down the sunken staircase along the walkway and following the alley, the first portal on the left leads to the courtyard of the convent of St. George.
Churches of St. Sergius. The church of San Sergius is the oldest within the walls, with columns dating back to the 3rd and 4th centuries. It is said to have been built over a cave where Joseph, Mary, and the baby Jesus took refuge after fleeing to Egypt.
Ben Ezra Synagogue. Dating from the ninth century, it occupies the framework of a Christian church of the fourth century. In the 12th century, it was restored by Abraham Ben Ezra, rabbi of Jerusalem.
Gate 2 Egypt will take you to visit all these spectacular and important sites. Book with us and join this great adventure to explore new and historical places.
