The Citadel of Salah El-Din, a cornerstone of Cairo’s rich medieval history, rises majestically over the city as a symbol of resilience and power. Constructed in the late 12th century by the great military leader Salah El-Din (Saladin), this fortress was designed to protect Cairo from potential Crusader invasions. Its strategic location atop the Mokattam Hills offered military advantages and provided breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis below. Within the Citadel’s walls lies a collection of architectural masterpieces, the most prominent being the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque.
Built in the 19th century by Muhammad Ali Pasha, this mosque is celebrated for its exquisite Ottoman design, gleaming alabaster walls, and towering domes that dominate Cairo’s skyline. The Citadel also houses several museums, including the Military Museum and the Police Museum, making it a hub of both history and culture.
Journeying into Old Cairo, visitors are transported into the heart of Egypt’s ancient and religious past. This district, often referred to as the Coptic Cairo, is home to some of the oldest churches and synagogues in the region. Among these, the Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa), suspended above a Roman fortress, stands out as a beacon of Coptic Christian heritage. Nearby, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, steeped in Jewish history, tells the story of Egypt’s diverse religious fabric. Old Cairo offers a fascinating narrative of coexistence, where Coptic, Islamic, and Jewish traditions have intertwined for centuries.
One of the most remarkable and unique landmarks in this area is the Cave Church of St. Simon the Tanner, an awe-inspiring site carved into the rugged Mokattam Hills. This massive church, also known as the Monastery of St. Simon, is a spiritual haven for Cairo’s Zabbaleen (garbage collector) community. With a capacity to hold over 20,000 worshippers, it is one of the largest Christian churches in the Middle East.
The Cave Church’s stunning carvings and frescoes depict Biblical stories, creating an environment of profound spirituality. It serves as both a place of worship and a reminder of the Zabbaleen community’s resilience and faith amidst challenging circumstances. The history of St. Simon the Tanner, a Coptic saint credited with performing miracles, adds a deeper layer of significance to this extraordinary site.
The Citadel, Old Cairo, and the Cave Church embody the essence of Egypt’s vast historical and cultural tapestry. From the Citadel’s imposing walls that echo tales of medieval battles to Old Cairo’s sacred spaces that reflect centuries of religious devotion, and the Cave Church’s inspiring story of faith and community, these landmarks offer an unparalleled journey through time. Exploring them reveals the architectural splendor, spiritual depth, and rich history that make Cairo a city unlike any other in the world.
This Cairo Sightseeing Tour is a profound reminder of our past, and present. It inspires us to embrace our diversity, persevere through challenges, and pursue excellence in all our endeavors. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of human creativity, and determination.
The beauty of unity in a rich tapestry of cultures. So, as you embark on this journey. Let the history and heritage of Cairo motivate you to embrace the endless possibilities that life has to offer.
You will be picked up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza by Ancient Egypt Tours representative. start visiting to the Citadel of Salah El-Din, where you will see the view of all Cairo, as you will visit Mohamed Ali Alabaster Mosque which is considered the largest to be built in the beginning of the 19th century the ruler of Egypt (1805-1849) who ruled Egypt over 45 years & it is built in Baruk style.
you will move on to Coptic Cairo to visit Babylon Fortress and the Hanging Church, Church of St. Barbara, Church of St. Sergius and Ben Ezra synagogue.
Enrich you tour with a visit to Amr Ibn El-Aas Mosque which is the very first mosque built in Egypt.
Then move to visit the important church Simon the Tanner (fl. 10th century), also known as Saint Simon the Shoemaker (Sam’ān al-Kharrāz) is the Coptic Orthodox saint associated with the story of the moving the Mokattam Mountain in Cairo, Back to Hotel.
Adults Numbers | Price/Person |
---|---|
Single | 80 $ |
2 -3 | 50 $ |
4 – 6 | 40 $ |
7 – 10 | 35 $ |
11 – 15 | 30 $ |
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.
A hat to protect your head and face from the sun’s rays.
A camera to capture the beautiful sights and memories of your trip.
An umbrella to shield you from unexpected rain showers.
Comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy while exploring.
Sunblock and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
Warm clothes if you’re traveling in winter, especially if you plan to visit the desert at night.
Cotton clothes if you’re traveling in summer, as they are breathable and lightweight.
Always wear comfortable shoes.
Medication for any pre-existing medical conditions or emergencies.
A valid passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival.
Buy a local SIM card.
If you’re interested in more detailed information about
The temperature in Egypt varies from 14°C to 37°C. During summer, the temperature is hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night. In winter, the temperature is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5°C in the wintertime to 23°C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17°C in the wintertime to 32°C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
The temperature details of Egypt. According to Climates to Travel, Egypt’s climate is characterized by the scarcity of rainfall and the abundance of sunshine. In fact, in much of the country, occupied by the eastern part of the Sahara, the climate is desert. Only on the northern coast, overlooking the Mediterranean, there is a certain amount of rain in winter. As for the temperatures, they are milder on the north coast, while they gradually get warmer as you go south. Along the Red Sea coast, temperatures are higher than on the Mediterranean coast but lower than in inland areas. However, summer is very hot. The only mountainous areas, where it can get cold in winter, are located in the east, on the Sinai Peninsula.
Pick-up and drop-off at centrally located City hotels
Add 10$ Pick-up or Drop-off international airport
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.