Embarking on a private day tour to St. Simon Monastery, Cave Church, Garbage City, and Coptic Cairo promises a transformative expedition. Delving deep into the soul of Egypt’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This journey isn’t just a physical exploration. It’s an odyssey into the heart of the country’s faith, resilience, and the vivid tapestry of its communities. Enjoy St Simon Monastery&Cave Church&Garbage City and Coptic Cairo.
The Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, also known as the Cave Church, is one of the most extraordinary religious sites in Egypt, nestled within the rocky Mokattam Hills in Cairo. It serves as a spiritual haven for the Zabbaleen (garbage collectors) community of Manshiyat Naser, often referred to as Garbage City. Together, the Cave Church, Garbage City, and Coptic Cairo weave a narrative of resilience, faith, and the enduring legacy of Egypt’s Christian heritage.
The Cave Church is dedicated to St. Simon the Tanner, a revered figure in Coptic Christianity whose story is tied to a miraculous event in the 10th century. During the reign of the Fatimid Caliph Al-Mu’izz Li-Din Allah, the Coptic Pope Abraham faced a challenge to demonstrate the truth of Christianity by moving the Mokattam Mountain, inspired by Christ’s words in the Bible: “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move” (Matthew 17:20). Through fasting, prayer, and the intercession of St. Simon, the mountain reportedly lifted, saving the Coptic community from persecution.
Centuries later, this miraculous tale became the foundation of the Monastery of St. Simon, established in the 1970s within the natural caves of the Mokattam Hills. The Cave Church, carved into the rocky terrain, is the largest of its kind in the Middle East, capable of hosting over 20,000 worshippers. Its walls are adorned with intricate carvings depicting Biblical scenes and the life of Christ, transforming the raw stone into a sacred canvas of faith. The site also includes smaller chapels, such as the Church of St. Mark, and serves as a center of spiritual life for the surrounding community.
The area surrounding the Cave Church, known as Garbage City, is home to the Zabbaleen, a primarily Coptic Christian community that migrated to Cairo from Upper Egypt in the mid-20th century. They established a vital, informal waste management system, collecting, sorting, and recycling the city’s garbage. Despite facing social stigma and challenging living conditions, the Zabbaleen have become pioneers in sustainable waste management, achieving recycling rates of up to 80%, among the highest in the world.
Their community transformed the harsh environment of Garbage City into a thriving ecosystem of labor and ingenuity. The construction of the Cave Church under Father Samaan Ibrahim in the 1970s gave the Zabbaleen a place of worship and solidarity. The church and its surrounding monastery became symbols of hope and resilience, illustrating how faith can uplift and empower even the most marginalized communities.
While the Cave Church and Garbage City showcase the modern challenges and triumphs of Egypt’s Copts, Coptic Cairo takes visitors on a journey into the roots of Christianity in Egypt. This historic district, also known as Old Cairo, is home to some of the oldest and most sacred Christian sites in the world.
The Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa), dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is a centerpiece of Coptic Cairo. Built on the ruins of a Roman fortress, it is named for its unique construction, appearing to “hang” over the ancient gatehouse. Its ornate wooden ceiling and intricate icons offer a glimpse into the artistry of Coptic Christianity. Nearby is St. Sergius and Bacchus Church, believed to be built over the site where the Holy Family rested during their flight to Egypt. Another must-visit is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a historical landmark reflecting Egypt’s multicultural religious heritage.
Coptic Cairo also hosts the Coptic Museum, which houses an unparalleled collection of Christian artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks. This area is a living testimony to the early days of Christianity, preserving traditions that date back nearly two millennia.
Visiting the Cave Church, Garbage City, and Coptic Cairo is a deeply moving experience that bridges the ancient and the contemporary. Together, they tell the story of Egypt’s Coptic community—a journey of faith, perseverance, and cultural preservation. From the miraculous legacy of St. Simon the Tanner to the Zabbaleen’s inspiring resilience and the ancient roots of Christianity in Old Cairo, these landmarks offer a profound insight into the enduring spirit of Egypt’s Copts.
Whether you are exploring the monumental Cave Church, witnessing the ingenuity of the Zabbaleen, or walking through the sacred streets of Coptic Cairo, this journey unveils a side of Egypt that resonates with history, spirituality, and hope.
Coptic Cairo, a historic district within the bustling metropolis of Cairo, Egypt, is a treasure trove of ancient churches, monasteries, and cultural heritage that reflects the rich history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. This area is home to some of the oldest Christian sites in the world, including the Hanging Church, the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Coptic Cairo serves as a spiritual and cultural center for Egypt’s Coptic Christian community, which has maintained its traditions and practices for centuries despite facing various challenges throughout history. The juxtaposition of Coptic Cairo’s historical significance with the nearby Garbage City and the Monastery of St. Simon highlights the diverse experiences of faith and community in modern Egypt.
The Monastery of St. Simon, also known as the Cave Church, is a remarkable religious site located in the Mokattam Hills, just outside of Coptic Cairo. Established in the late 20th century, the monastery is dedicated to St. Simon, a revered figure in the Coptic Orthodox tradition. The Cave Church, carved into the rock, is an architectural marvel that can accommodate thousands of worshippers. Its stunning interior features intricate carvings, beautiful murals, and a large altar, creating a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The church serves as a spiritual haven for the local community, providing a place for worship, education, and cultural preservation.
The Cave Church is the centerpiece of the Monastery of St. Simon and is renowned for its unique design and natural acoustics. Built in the 1970s, the church is a testament to the ingenuity of its creators, who transformed a natural cave into a place of worship. The church’s capacity to hold large congregations makes it a popular venue for religious ceremonies, including weddings, baptisms, and festivals. The murals and carvings within the church depict biblical scenes and Coptic saints, reflecting the deep spiritual heritage of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The Cave Church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub for the community, fostering a sense of identity and belonging among its members.
Adjacent to the Monastery of St. Simon is Garbage City, officially known as Manshiyat Naser. This unique urban settlement is home to the Zabbaleen, a community of garbage collectors who have developed a sustainable waste management system over generations. The Zabbaleen play a crucial role in Cairo’s waste management, collecting, sorting, and recycling the city’s refuse. Despite facing significant social stigma and economic challenges, the Zabbaleen have built a resilient community characterized by strong family ties and a shared sense of purpose.
Life in Garbage City is marked by both hardships and triumphs. The community grapples with poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to basic services. However, the Zabbaleen’s resourcefulness and commitment to their work have allowed them to create a thriving economy based on recycling. The Monastery of St. Simon stands as a beacon of hope for the Zabbaleen, offering spiritual support and a sense of community amidst the challenges they face.
The relationship between the Monastery of St. Simon, the Cave Church, and Garbage City exemplifies the interconnectedness of faith and community in Coptic Cairo. The monastery serves as a spiritual refuge for the Zabbaleen, providing a place for worship and reflection that transcends the difficulties of daily life. The church’s activities often extend beyond religious services, encompassing social initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in Garbage City. Various organizations and NGOs collaborate with the monastery to provide education, healthcare, and vocational training, empowering individuals to break the cycle of poverty.
The Coptic Orthodox Church plays a vital role in fostering social cohesion and cultural preservation within the community. The Monastery of St. Simon and the Cave Church serve as symbols of resilience, demonstrating how faith can inspire hope and transformation in the face of adversity. The Zabbaleen’s commitment to their work and their strong sense of community are complemented by the spiritual support they receive from the monastery, creating a harmonious relationship between faith and daily life.
Coptic Cairo, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is a vital part of Egypt’s identity. The area is home to numerous ancient churches and historical sites that reflect the deep roots of Christianity in Egypt. The preservation of these sites is essential for maintaining the cultural heritage of the Coptic community. The Monastery of St. Simon and the Cave Church contribute to this preservation by serving as active centers of worship and cultural expression.
The monastery hosts various events and programs that promote Coptic traditions, including religious festivals, art exhibitions, and educational workshops. These initiatives not only celebrate the community’s heritage but also foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents. The collaboration between the monastery and the Zabbaleen community highlights the importance of cultural preservation in the face of modern challenges.
The Monastery of St. Simon, the Cave Church, Garbage City, and Coptic Cairo together weave a rich tapestry of faith, resilience, and cultural heritage. The Monastery of St. Simon stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Coptic community, providing a sanctuary for worship and a source of support for the Zabbaleen. The challenges faced by the Garbage City community are met with strength and determination, reflecting the deep-rooted values of faith and community that define Coptic Cairo.
As we explore the stories of these interconnected spaces, we are reminded of the power of faith to inspire hope and transformation. The Monastery of St. Simon and the Cave Church serve as symbols of resilience, inviting us to reflect on the complexities of life in modern Egypt and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Through their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and supporting one another, the residents of Garbage City and the Coptic community continue to thrive, embodying the essence of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
You will be picked up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza by Ancient Egypt Tours representative, starting visit Old Cairo The Start Visit Babylon Fortress, known as the Wax Palace or Babylon Castle, is an ancient fortress located in the city of Cairo in Egypt, The fortress is considered one of the largest fortresses witnessed by the Roman civilization in Egypt, and is one of the largest fortresses built by the empire, as well as the center on which the city of Fustat was built. Then move to Visit fascinated built wonders such as the Hanging Church that was built in 3rd and beginning of the 4th century. also, in the Basilica style. The Hanging Church of Cairo rises majestically on the ancient tower of the fortress of Babylon. With an interior full of symbolism and icons, it has become one of the most visited monuments of the most magnetic city in Egypt. And no wonder, with an essence that mixes Roman, Egyptian and Babylonian architecture becomes a place where legend and history blur. Than move to Visit The church of St. Sergius and Bacchus has a special place among the other Coptic churches because it is linked to the path of the Holy Family during their escape from King Herod to the land of Egypt. The name of the church is attributed to both Saints Sergius and Bacchus, who were martyred in the region of Rusafa in Syria according to Christian belief. No one can be in Coptic Cairo without visiting the Ben Ezra Synagogue in Cairo, called El-Shamieen Church, and now located behind the “Hanging Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary”.
Proceed to have your lunch at local restaurant.
Then Move to visit Cave church, Saint Simon Church, or the Tanner Monastery lies in the Mokattam Mountain, near Garbage city or in Arabic language El Zabbaleen city. This monastery is carved into the Mokattam Mountain in 1975. It houses many Coptic churches. Saint Simon Church is one of the hidden treasures in Egypt and the Middle East. It is famous for its design, taking the shape of amphitheater. It is considered the biggest church in Egypt, as it accommodates 20 thousand people. St. Simon St. Simon worked as a tanner, lived at the end of the 10th century. He was in charge of the legend of the transferring the Mokattam Mountain. The Garbage City The garbage city or El Zabbaleen city in the Arabic language is famous for its populations are working in collecting, sorting, and recycling the garbage.
At the end of the Tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
| Adults Numbers | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single | 60 $ |
| 2 -3 | 40 $ |
| 4 – 6 | 30 $ |
| 7 – 10 | 25 $ |
| 11 – 15 | 20 $ |
Tour price currency is set to USD but you can pay in Euro or British pound. The prices quoted per person per tour all-inclusive of tax and prices are always updated to ensure you receive the lowest price possible. Once your tour is confirmed we guarantee the price will not be changed.
0 – 05.99 free of Charge.
6 – 11.99 pay 50% of tour price.
12+ pay full tour price as per adult person.
Children policy is not applied on all kinds of transportation (Flight, train or bus) full ticket payment is required
We are offering a considerable down payment of just 25% to secure your spaces on the tour including domestic flight ticket, and other travel-related services. The remaining balance can be paid up to two days prior to your arrival date or in cash upon arrival at the destination. Therefore, making your booking a risk-free investment.
Ancient Egypt Tours does not charge a cancellation fee for tours and excursions canceled for ‘force measures reasons such as volcanoes, earthquakes, or reasons beyond control. If cancellation happens due to personal or business reasons and Ancient Egypt Tours has already incurred costs on your behalf, these costs will not be refunded to you.
To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
Flight & train tickets are nonrefundable
After your tour is confirmed, we will email final confirmation and voucher to print and bring with you. Details will include contact numbers of your tour operator and customer care and additional information for your convenience.
