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Church · Cairo, Cairo
Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa)
Coptic church in Cairo’s Coptic quarter, built on the towers of the Roman fortress of Babylon, with a wooden boat-shaped ceiling and ancient icons.
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 Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa)
The Hanging Church (al-Muallaqa) is the best-known church in Coptic Cairo, in the southern part of the city. It is called “hanging” because the nave was built over the passage between two towers of the Roman fortress of Babylon, so it appears suspended above the street.
A staircase leads to the courtyard and the church, with its wooden boat-shaped ceiling, a marble pulpit on thin columns and icons from several centuries. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and played an important role in the history of the Coptic Church.
Around it, the Coptic quarter gathers other old churches, such as Saint Sergius, linked by tradition to the Flight into Egypt of the Holy Family, the Ben Ezra synagogue and the Coptic Museum, with pieces of Christian art from Egypt.
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
Two to three hours for the church, the quarter’s narrow streets and the Coptic Museum.
Best time
In the morning. Churches hold masses and ceremonies at certain times; visits are more restricted during those moments.
How to get there
By metro, Line 1, to Mar Girgis station, opposite the Coptic quarter, or by taxi.
Tip
Wear clothing that covers shoulders and legs and also visit the Coptic Museum next door.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa)
Why is it called the Hanging Church?
Because the nave was built above the passage between two towers of the Roman fortress of Babylon, and it appears suspended over the street.
How do you get to Cairo’s Coptic quarter?
By metro, line 1, to Mar Girgis station, in front of the quarter, or by taxi from downtown.
What else is there to see in the Coptic quarter?
The Church of St. Sergius, the Ben Ezra synagogue and the Coptic Museum, with pieces of Egypt’s Christian art.