Away from the pyramids, a different aspect of Cairo's diverse and colourful history can be discovered in the medieval quarter, a melting pot of ancient architecture and religious monuments.
Although most visitors to Cairo are keen to the see the Pyramids and Sphinx, Cairo’s rich Christian, Jewish and Islamic history should not be ignored. The medieval quarter – often referred to as Old Cairo or Coptic Cairo is home to fascinating examples of ancient architecture and countless Coptic Christian monuments. Your entrance to Old Cairo is through one of the oldest structures in Cairo.
The rounded towers of Western Gate of the Roman Fortress of Babylon date from 98AD and are only pre-dated by the Southern Gate. From here, your guide will take you to the Hanging Church of the Virgin Mary that is literally built into the walls of the Roman Fortress. Dating from the 4th century, this is arguably the oldest church in Egypt and houses a beautiful wood carving depicting Jesus Christ entering Jerusalem.
You will also be taken to the Church of St Sergius or Abu Serga, which is believed to be built atop one of the sites where the Holy Family rested on their flight from Herod. Your tour concludes with a visit to the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Hidden in the alleyways of Old Cairo the synagogue dates from the 9th century and according to Coptic tradition a well outside marks the location where the pharaoh’s daughter plucked the baby Moses from the reeds.
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