The Church of Saint Sergius and Bacchus
The Church of Saint Sergius and Bacchus, commonly referred to as Abu Serga, is situated in the historic district of Old Cairo. Scholars have engaged in discussions regarding the church's construction date; some assert that it was built between the late fourth century and the early fifth century, while others contend that it originated in the seventeenth century.
This church is constructed on the remnants of the Roman Fortress of Babylon, making it a significant site to explore during Cairo Day tours in Egypt. It is named in honor of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, two martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their Christian faith.
The Roman Fortress of Babylon, which dates back to the era of Emperor Trajan, was established by the Romans.
The Cavern Church
According to the account provided by the evangelist Matthew, the Holy Family, consisting of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and the Infant Jesus, took refuge in the vicinity of the church and Old Cairo for several weeks to escape King Herod's decree to kill the Infant Jesus. Consequently, the church and its surrounding area are among the most captivating destinations for visitors during Egypt Classic Tours.
As narrated by the evangelist Matthew, the Holy Family, consisting of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and the Infant Jesus, resided in the vicinity of the church and Old Cairo for several weeks to evade the threat posed by King Herod, who sought to kill the Infant Jesus. Consequently, this church and its surrounding area are among the most captivating destinations during Egypt Classic Tours, attracting visitors from across the globe.
The Architecture of the Church
The Church of Abu Serga is designed in the basilica style, featuring two side aisles and a central nave. It is supported by twelve columns, of which eleven are crafted from white marble and one from red granite. The church also boasts a wooden screen adorned with exquisite ebony and ivory decorations that date back to the 13th century. This remarkable church is distinguished by its exceptional icons depicting scenes from the lives of the Infant Jesus and the Virgin Mary. Notably, the roof is an artistic highlight, designed to resemble Noah’s Ark. Thus, a visit to this church is an unforgettable experience during Egypt Christmas Tours for both Egyptian and international visitors. The church also contains a pulpit that is utilized once a year on Great Friday.
Coptic Cairo
Coptic Cairo is a prominent area in Cairo that attracts tourists from around the world, including those arriving via cruises from various ports, such as Alexandria. Visitors often partake in Alexandria shore excursions to explore the Great Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, Coptic Cairo, and Islamic Cairo. The Church of Abu Serga houses Egypt’s oldest altar, which has been relocated to the Coptic Museum, a repository of a vast collection of artifacts.
The Cavern of the Church Historians reference the accounts of Pope Theophilus, the 23rd Patriarch of Alexandria (385-412 AD), alongside the writings of the theologian Hippolytus of Rome, which describe the church as encompassing the cavern where the Holy Family chose to rest. This site includes the spring from which they drank, several stones they traversed, and the stone upon which the infant Jesus lay. Our team at Cairo Top Tours is prepared to assist you during your travels in Egypt, offering opportunities to visit these sacred churches and sites associated with the Holy Family's journey, guided by professional Egyptologists who will provide comprehensive explanations of each detail.
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