Description

Discover the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul , the oldest Christian monasteries , they both date back to the 4th century AD,Exploar the holiest sites of the Coptic Church in Egypt.

Included

pick up from your hotel

air-conditioned transfer

entrance fees to the above mentioned sites

English speaking guide during your tour

all service charges and taxes

transfer back to your hotel at the end of your tour

Excluded

any extras not mentioned

Tipping

Remember to bring

Hat

sunscreen

Your Itinerary

  • 1) Coptic monasteries st.Anthony and st.Paul from Cairo

    The monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul are the oldest Christian monasteries; they both date back to the 4th century AD, when monks began to settle at the foot of the Red Sea mountain of Galala Al-Qibliya, in hidden cliffs and caves. Both monasteries are considered as the holiest sites of the Coptic Church in Egypt. Located off the Zafarana Road leading to Beni Suef, some 70 km south from Ain Sukhna, 45 km from Hurghada City Monastery of St.Anthony The Monastery of Saint Anthony is a Coptic Orthodox monastery standing in an oasis in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, in the southern part of the Suez Governorate. Hidden deep in the Red Sea Mountains, it is located 334 km (208 mi) southeast of Cairo. The Monastery of Saint Anthony was established by the followers of Saint Anthony, who is the first Christian monk. The Monastery of St. Anthony is one of the most prominent monasteries in Egypt and has strongly influenced the formation of several Coptic institutions, and has promoted monasticism in general. Several patriarchs have come from the monastery, and several hundred pilgrims visit it each day. - Other names:    Deir Mar Antonios - Established: 300 - Dedicated to: Saint Anthony the Great - Diocese: Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria - Founder(s): Saint Anthony the Great - Location: Red Sea Governorate Monastery of St.Paul The Monastery of Saint Paul the Anchorite in Egypt is a Coptic Orthodox monastery located in the Eastern Desert, near the Red Sea Mountains. It is about 155 km (96 mi) south east of Cairo. The monastery is also known as the Monastery of the Tigers. - Other names: Deir Anba Bola(Boula) - Established:4th century - Dedicated to: Saint Paul the Anchorite - Diocese: Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria
    - Location: Red Sea Governorate

Frequently Asked Questions

These are two of the world's oldest Christian monasteries, located in the Red Sea Mountains. St. Anthony's Monastery (founded 356 AD) is the oldest in the world and is still inhabited by Coptic monks. St. Paul's Monastery commemorates the first hermit saint. Both are UNESCO heritage candidates and deeply sacred to Coptic Christians worldwide.

Yes, both monasteries welcome visitors of all faiths with respect and openness. The monks are warm and hospitable. Visitors are expected to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees), maintain a respectful demeanor inside the sacred buildings, and follow the monastery's guidelines for photography and conduct.

The drive from Cairo to St. Paul's Monastery (the first stop) takes approximately 3.5 hours through the Eastern Desert. St. Anthony's Monastery is about 30 minutes further. The total distance is around 350 km from Cairo. Tours depart early morning to maximize time at both monasteries before the return journey.

Modest dress is strictly required. Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered. Women may also be asked to cover their hair when entering certain buildings. Loose, comfortable clothing in breathable fabric is recommended as the area can be quite warm. Shawls or wraps can be borrowed at the entrance if needed.

Reviews

  • Jean Dupont

    March 16, 2026, 5:28 a.m.

    Une visite magnifique! Les monastères de Saint Antoine et de Saint Paul sont de véritables joyaux historiques. Les lieux dégagent une sérénité incroyable et offrent une plongée passionnante dans l'histoire du christianisme. À ne pas manquer lors d'un séjour en Égypte.

  • Sophie Martin

    Jan. 29, 2026, 9:25 a.m.

    Exploring the holiest sites of the Coptic Church was a deeply moving experience. Both the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul are fascinating and beautifully preserved. They tell the story of early Christian monastic life in a way that's truly inspiring.

  • John Smith

    Jan. 2, 2026, 6:01 p.m.

    What an extraordinary tour! Visiting the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul felt like stepping back in time. The history embedded in these walls is incredible, and it was amazing to see the oldest Christian monasteries first-hand. A must-see for anyone interested in the roots of Christianity.

  • Elena Ferrari

    Oct. 13, 2025, 2:48 p.m.

    Un'esperienza davvero unica! I monasteri di Sant'Antonio e San Paolo sono delle vere e proprie meraviglie storiche. La guida era molto preparata e la visita è stata un'autentica immersione nella storia del cristianesimo. Un tour che non si può perdere.

  • Olga Ivanova

    Sept. 11, 2025, 12:14 a.m.

    Потрясающий тур! Посещение монастырей Св. Антония и Св. Павла было настоящим открытием. Эти древнейшие христианские монастыри очаровывают своей историей и духом. Обязательная экскурсия для всех, кто интересуется религиозной историей.

  • Anna Müller

    Sept. 3, 2025, 3:44 p.m.

    Eine unglaublich faszinierende Erfahrung! Die ältesten christlichen Klöster zu besuchen war wie eine Zeitreise. Die Klöster sind wunderschön erhalten und strahlen eine tiefe Spiritualität aus. Absolut empfehlenswert für jeden, der sich für Geschichte und Religion interessiert.

  • David Goed

    Aug. 19, 2024, 10:13 p.m.

    This tour was absolutely breathtaking. The monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul offer a deep dive into early Christian history. Each site is beautifully preserved and provides an insightful look into the past. I highly recommend this tour to everyone.

  • Max Bauer

    June 4, 2024, 11:22 p.m.

    Ein unvergesslicher Besuch! Die Klöster sind nicht nur historisch bedeutsam, sondern auch kulturell überwältigend. Es war faszinierend, mehr über die frühchristliche Geschichte in Ägypten zu erfahren. Sehr zu empfehlen!

  • Alexis Lewis

    April 8, 2024, 4:51 p.m.

    The tour of the St. Anthony and St. Paul monasteries was a highlight of my trip. These sites are not only significant historically but are also stunningly beautiful. The entire experience was well-organized and left a lasting impression on me. Don't miss it!

  • Maria Rossi

    March 3, 2024, 3:56 p.m.

    Un viaggio straordinario! Ho visitato i monasteri di Sant'Antonio e San Paolo ed è stato come entrare in un'altra epoca. Questi luoghi sacri sono incredibilmente affascinanti e pieni di una tranquilla bellezza. Consigliato a tutti coloro che sono interessati alla storia della Chiesa Copta.

All tours are operated by licensed Egyptian travel companies under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

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