St. Anthony's Monastery From Hurghada

Take a tour to the Coptic monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul and explore the history and culture of ancient Egypt.

The monasteries are located 254km From Hurghada, standing in an oasis in the Eastern Desert of Egypt they are the largest and oldest of the Coptic Monasteries  dating back to the 4th century AD, surrounded by high walls built beneath the Cliffs of Mount Kalalah. More than 1600 years ago this was the home of St. Antony, who lived in a cave on the mountain, 680 meters above sea level. The Monastery of St. Anthony is built over the Saints tomb by his disciples, it is hidden deep in the Red Sea Mountains, a large complex surrounded by high walls, including churches, chapels, a garden and a spring.  The Monastery looks like a village with streets and is considered the holiest venue of the Coptic Church in Egypt, within its walls are several Churches decorated with frescoes.

Higher up the cliffs you can visit  the monastery of St Paul also known as the Monastery of the Tigers,  built in the 4th century by hermits who isolated themselves from the materialistic world at the same site where Saint Paul had chosen to live in a cave for 90 years. You have also a chance to visit the beautiful cellar that is located deep under the level of the monastery and ornamented by colourful frescos. look outside for gorgeous views of the mountains and the desert, on the horizon you can even see the Red Sea

Both monasteries are worth a visit, even if you’re not interested in the spiritual side of the experience. The beauty of the views you’ll see from high up will make the tour unforgettable.