Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa)
Old Cairo, Cairo, Egypt, 4244001
Tucked among Coptic Cairo’s winding streets, the Hanging Church is more than 1,000 years old. Enter the 19th-century façade to find icons, elegant screens, a marble pulpit, and a window onto Roman ruins beneath the church. The Hanging Church is an important site for Egyptian Christians, as well as one of Coptic Cairo’s top attractions.
The basics
A popular stop on tours of Coptic Cairo—also called Old Cairo—the Hanging Church is one of the city’s most important Christian landmarks. For visitors unfamiliar with Coptic art, architecture, and traditions, visiting with a tour guide can be very helpful, as the interior of the church is rich in symbolism and history. The Coptic Mass is held here on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and is open to visitors.
Things to know before you go
- The Hanging Church is a must-see for history buffs and travelers interested in Egypt’s religious traditions.
- Photography is not allowed inside of the church.
- The church has steep stairs and is not wheelchair-accessible.
- There is no fee to enter the church.
How to get there
The Hanging Church is located on Mari Gerges in Coptic Cairo, a short distance from the Mar Girgis subway station that’s served by the M1 line. If you’re visiting as part of a tour, transport will be taken care of. Otherwise, taxis are plentiful; be sure to agree on a fare before setting out.
When to get there
Coptic Mass at the Hanging Church is held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays. Visitors are welcome during church services, but it’s worth visiting at a different time if you’re hoping to explore the interior. The Hanging Church is open daily, but hours vary.
Top Churches in Coptic Cairo
This compact area is packed with Christian landmarks, and it’s well worth visiting a few Coptic Cairo churches. After the Hanging Church, head to the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, then the Church of St Sergius and Bacchus. Next, tour the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue, built on the place where the baby Moses is believed to have been found.
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