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Monastery · Aswan, Aswan
Monastery of St. Simeon
Ruins of a large Coptic monastery from the 7th–13th centuries in the desert on Aswan's west bank, with walls, a church and monks' cells.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Monastery of St. Simeon
The Monastery of Saint Simeon (Deir Anba Samaan) stands in the desert of the west bank, about 1 km from the river, on an elevation above the dunes. It was founded around the 7th century and expanded in following centuries, until it was abandoned in the 13th century.
What remains are stone and brick walls, the church with faded paintings of saints, the monks' cells, the refectory and ovens. The two-level construction, surrounded by desert, shows how Nubian monastic communities lived.
You reach it on foot or by camel from the riverbank, a short walk across the dunes.
From the top of the walls you see the surrounding desert and, in the distance, the Nile and the city of Aswan. Visits are commonly combined with the Tombs of the Nobles.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour, including the walk.
Best time
Early in the morning, before the heat rises on the dunes.
How to get there
Cross the Nile to near the hill of the nobles and follow the dunes on foot or by camel for about 1 km.
Tip
Bring water and a hat for the walk across the dunes.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monastery of St. Simeon
Where is the Monastery of Saint Simeon?
On top of the dunes on the west bank, near the river.
How do I get to the Monastery of Saint Simeon?
Cross the Nile and follow the dunes, on foot or by camel.
Is the Monastery of Saint Simeon still in use?
No. It is the ruins of a monastery abandoned in the 13th century.