https://au.trip.com/moments/detail/cairo-326-129939874
Logan Ainsworth77Singapore

It can hold 20,000 people! The Cave Church in Cairo, Egypt is truly stunning!

Also known as St. Simon Monastery or the Cave Church, this site is located in the Mokattam Hills area of Cairo. It's one of the largest churches in Egypt and among the largest Christian worship centers in the Middle East. ⛪️ It was actually dug out by scavengers! The history of the Cave Church dates back to the 1970s. At that time, Cairo's Zabbaleen (garbage collector) community was forced to relocate near Mokattam Hills due to urban development. Most of these residents were Christians, and they dug caves in the mountainside, transforming them into churches as places for religious activities. . Currently, half of the church's seating area is closed off to visitors, with only the other half accessible. This doesn't affect photo opportunities. However, you can't walk to the two towers. The church features numerous religious murals and carvings depicting biblical stories and images of Christian saints, showcasing a rich religious and cultural atmosphere. . Tips: Getting there: Hire a car. . Visit duration: 1 hour is sufficient. You'll pass through Garbage City, which is a bit dirty and messy, but full of life. It's a chance to experience the local culture. . Taboos: Sleeveless or backless clothing is not allowed, and makeup is prohibited.
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Posted: Mar 7, 2025
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Mohamed Atef Wahdan
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The Cave Church

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Cairo
No.12 of Best Things to Do in Cairo
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🕌 1‑Day Cairo Itinerary (No Giza) ☀️ Morning: Coptic Cairo Wander Cairo’s sacred heritage sites: The Hanging Church St. Sergius & Bacchus Church Ben Ezra Synagogue ✅ Entry: Free 🎟 Optional: Coptic Museum - tickets required 🕘 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM --- ☕ Coffee by the Nile 📍 Starbucks (Zamalek or Maadi) Recharge with a coffee and panoramic Nile views. 🕛 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM --- 🍴 Lunch at Zooba 📍 Zooba (Zamalek or Maadi) Modern Egyptian street food—koshari, taameya, and bright flavors in a relaxed, stylish space. 🕐 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM --- 🏛 Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square) Uncover ancient wonders like King Tut’s mask and royal mummies. 🎟 Entry: ₤550 EGP 🕑 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM --- 🛍 Optional: Khan El-Khalili Bazaar (Daytime Only) If you have the energy, stop by for a brief stroll. > ⚠️ Important Warning: Avoid the bazaar after dark—we experienced hustling and harassment and don’t recommend it. Prices are often hugely inflated—don't feel pressured to buy anything. Tourist shops offer better deals. 🕓 4:30 PM – 5:15 PM --- 🍽 Dinner at Mama’s Restaurant 📍 مطعم ماماي (Mama’s Restaurant) It is a beautiful setting with fantastic Egyptian cuisine and, often, live entertainment. 🕕 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM 💡 Go early so you can enjoy the show and still reach the boat before it gets too late. --- 🚤 Evening Nile Boat Ride 📍 Zamalek or Maadi Felucca Dock End your day with a calm, magical 30–45 minute boat ride on the Nile under the city lights, but this is also an option for the morning, which is also a cooler part > ✅ Best done after dinner when it’s cooler and more atmospheric. 🎟 Around 200–300 EGP (negotiate beforehand). Choose a quiet felucca, not a party boat, for a peaceful ride. 🕗 7:30 PM – 8:15 PM 📍 Head directly back to your hotel via Uber or Bolt after the ride. --- 🚗 Transportation Tips Use Uber or Bolt all day—they’re cheap and convenient. > ⚠️ Notes: Cars are often old and basic but reliable. Number plates use Arabic numerals (٠١٢٣٤٥٦٧٨٩)—save a screenshot to match your ride. --- 🛑 After-Dark Safety This itinerary ensures you're only out briefly and safely at night in trusted areas (Zamalek or Maadi). Avoid wandering city or visiting the bazaar after sunset. After the boat ride, I'd suggest you head straight back to your hotel via Uber/Bolt. Happy travels✨️#cairo_egypt #cairo #Itinerary #museums #history

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