Egypt holds the oldest civilization in the world and its rich history has captivated many travelers across the globe.
One particular part of Egypt still fascinated us until today and it is Old Cairo. In this area, you can learn about Egypt’s rich Coptic heritage and the Christian community which is the oldest in the world.
Old Cairo, which is Masr el Qadīma in Egyptian Arabic is the southern part of Cairo, but Old Cairo holds the incredible stories about Egypt.
The city was founded in 969 CE and this part of the city has the first capitals like Fustat, al-Askar and al-Qatta’i. When wandering in the streets of Old Cairo, you can admire the remained ruins of the Roman, the incredible Fort Babylon, the Roman Catholic Cemetery and others wonders.
Old Cairo is packed with our history, our first traditions, and humanity, which allow us to rediscover ourselves in today’s society. The beloved Coptic area is a part of Old Cairo, where you can discover the Egyptian culture, literature, language, religions, and writing systems.
The region has a rich history, as any other part of the Old Cairo.
When walking in the alleyways of Old Cairo, you can still feel the presence of ‘set apart from the rest of the world.’
To get here, the Metro from Mar Girgis is the easiest way to travel to the district, but for the adventurous traveler, driving here is the best as the ride is full of excitement and moments you will remember your entire life.
Osiris Tours can provide you with your own private Egyptian tour guide and design a custom tour for you.
The incredible Wonders still standing in Old Cairo
The Holy Day Tour is the perfect way to get introduced to Egypt’s three religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam). The oldest and most important churches are to be found in the Coptic Area.
Abu Serga and Ben Ezra are the early, icon-adorned churches. It is said that the holy family has found refuge in Ben Ezra, and baby Moses was found on this site.
Abu Serga is one of the oldest churches in Egypt, dating back to the 4th century.
Darb 1718 is a cultural and Egyptian contemporary art center located in Fustat. The center opened in 2008.
The Coptic Museum was founded in 1908, and it holds the largest collection of Egyptian Christian artifacts in the world. It is located less than a mile away from the Egyptian Museum.
The Hanging Church is also known under the name Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox church. It is the oldest church in Egypt, and it dates back to the 3rd century AD.
The oldest mosque in Fustat – Amr Ibn al-Aas
When traveling to Egypt, it is necessary to visit Old Cairo, where authentic life and Roman ruins still stand. Where the locals are the nicest people you will ever meet and where the Egyptian cuisine has not changed.
Travelers have the opportunity to be introduced to the true face of Christianity and its origins while understanding Islam and its integration into society. Be open to this learning experience and absorb as much as you can of the positive energy around you because this trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Old Cairo has a way to intrigue any curious traveler and charm any reluctant heart. The city is vibrant and full of energy and love. Where else in the world will you enjoy seeing different religions living side by side in harmony?
Mingle with the locals and drink Egyptian tea with the elderly while playing some games. This is Old Cairo for you, and welcome to your land, the city of Kings and Queens. Check out our Egypt luxury tours for more!
Happy Traveling!
