Wadi El-Natron Monasteries
Description
Wadi ElNatron which is in the eastern desert near the delta, is one of the prime attractions for the Christian religious tourist that comes to Egypt Christianity reached Wadi El-natron with St. Macarius the Great who retreated there in C.330.Then the area became a sanctuary for Christians who were fleeing the systematic Roman persecution in the 4th century and there they started to develop a monastic order The area was once flourished by tens of monasteries of which only four survived the time. This was to protect monks against the Berbers and Bedouins Join us in this awesome coptic tour during 7 hours
Tour Options
Itinerary
Our guide will take you from your hotel in El-Behera to start your Coptic tour to Wadi Natron , you will start your tour by visiting the The Monastery of El Syrian It was built by St. Beshoy in the sixth century. It was built to be dedicated to Virgin Mary. It has an interesting cave where St. Beshoy is said to have prayed with his hair tied with a chain to the roof to prevent him from sleeping. The monastery was acquired by Syrian monks at some time, this is why it gained its modern name “Al-Suryan” which means (the Syrians). The name is shortened from the monastery’s long name
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
we pick up all travelers from cairo
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(2)
The valley, which owes its name to the natron that was once mined here and used by the ancient Egyptians for mummification, became the place where some of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world were built, some of which are still active today. Compact buildings with domed roofs surrounded by palm trees look interesting from a distance, and you should choose a day other than Sunday to visit them, because their interiors, filled with believers, are not available to tourists then.
A fascinating tour around the monastery by one of the senior monks who told us the history of the site and the purpose of many of the buildings.
