Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga), Cairo - Medine Gamame mescidi
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Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga) Cairo

4.7
·2k reviews·, Egypt

Ancient 4th-century church in Coptic Cairo, believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga), Cairo - Medine Gamame mescidi

Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga) Cairo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient 4th-century church in Coptic Cairo, believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"The crypt is especially moving; a small spot tucked away in Old Cairo, definitely worth a visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly to show respect for this holy site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Coptic Cairo

Combine your visit with other historical churches and sites in the charming Coptic Cairo area. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Crypt of the Holy Family

The Crypt of the Holy Family

Underground crypt

Descend into the sacred space where Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus are believed to have taken refuge. A truly moving experience.

Ancient Architecture

Ancient Architecture

Main church area

Admire the 4th-century architecture and feel the weight of centuries of prayer and devotion within these walls.

Miraculous Column (Historical)

Miraculous Column (Historical)

Main church area

Learn about the historical account of a column that reportedly bled during Holy Week, a testament to faith.

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Planning Your Visit

Sacred Ground: A Glimpse of History

This ancient church is believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family. Descend into the crypt for a moving experience, but be mindful of the narrow passages. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

Navigating Coptic Cairo

The Church of Abu Serga is nestled within the historic Coptic Cairo. Prepare for winding streets that some liken to Jerusalem. Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the area's significance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The place that kept Baby Jesus safe from the massacre ordered by King Herod when Jesus was born is located beneath the Church of Abu Serga. This is where Baby Jesus, Mary, and Joseph stayed hidden for three months in an underground crypt in Old Cairo, Egypt. Highly recommend adding it to your list of places to visit! #Abuserga #christian #christiantiktok #egypt #cairo #jesus #jesuschrist #bible #n...
@bianca.kesto
61.8K likes • 300.2K views

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly to show respect for this holy site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Coptic Cairo

Combine your visit with other historical churches and sites in the charming Coptic Cairo area. :world_map:

Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church (aka Abu Serga church) 📍Masr el Adima /Coptic Cairo Do you know that the Holy family (Virgin Mary, Jesus and Joseph) came to Egypt? During our tour to Coptic Cairo on the 10th of February, we will learn more about this. Join us to discover more 😍 . . . #cairo #egypt #travel #discoveregypt #walklikeanegyptian #thisiscairo #thisisegypt #discoveregypt #cultura...
walk_like_anegyptian
36 likes • 2.1K views
In the heart of Coptic Cairo, a pillar in the ancient Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus bore witness to a divine miracle. During the period of Saint Pope Cyril VI (1959–1971), this column mysteriously began to bleed during the Holy Week, astonishing the faithful and drawing awe from all who beheld it. Seen as a sign of God’s presence, the phenomenon ceased through the Pope’s prayers, cement...
thecopticnation
1.6K likes • 40.9K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Cairo can be hot, especially when exploring the old city. Carry water, especially if visiting during warmer months. :droplet:

💰 Donation Appreciated

While entry is free, consider a small donation or purchasing a candle to support the church and community. :moneywithwings:

Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church In Coptic Cairo (also known as Abu Serga). This was the highlight of my trip. Being in the presence of The Holy Family when they fled Israel to avoid the anger/wrath of Herrod The Great after The Magi came to Him asking about Our Savior. The Angel Gabriel came to tell Joseph to flee….and so they did…they stayed for what experts and scholars believe was 3 months 6...
drninaradcliff
282 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly to show respect for this holy site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Coptic Cairo

Combine your visit with other historical churches and sites in the charming Coptic Cairo area. :world_map:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Cairo can be hot, especially when exploring the old city. Carry water, especially if visiting during warmer months. :droplet:

💰 Donation Appreciated

While entry is free, consider a small donation or purchasing a candle to support the church and community. :moneywithwings:

📸 Capture the Moment

The crypt is dimly lit, so a good phone camera or a camera with low-light capabilities is helpful. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus deeply moving, particularly the crypt believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family. The ancient history and spiritual atmosphere are frequently praised, though some note the narrow passages and the challenge of verifying the historical claims.

"Very beautiful church, with its ancient history.
Don"t know Really if the savred family stay here in the cave, but I wanted to believe: so emotion when I go down in the crypt!

The visit is free. A little offer and a candle for peace could be a good idea!"

Lido Rossi

"Beautiful place, there are the big souvenir shop and there are reasonable price to you, and also the money spending here will used for helping Egyptian community, not mafia around. The church and shop own by the government."

Tat Orio

"This church is believed to be one of the places the Holy Family stayed during their time in Egypt. The underground crypt is especially moving. It’s a small spot tucked away in Old Cairo - definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the area."

Paulomi Roy

What People Like

Moving crypt experience
Ancient history
Spiritual atmosphere

What People Dislike

Narrow passages
Historical verification

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is located in Coptic Cairo. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing app. It's also accessible via the Mar Girgis metro station. Many visitors explore the area on foot after arriving.

It's situated within the historic Coptic Cairo district. While the streets can be winding, following signs for Coptic Cairo or asking locals will guide you. Some visitors mention the approach feels like Jerusalem.

Yes, the Mar Girgis metro station is the closest public transport option. From there, it's a short walk to the church and the surrounding Coptic Cairo sites.

Parking in Old Cairo can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transport to avoid parking difficulties.

Many visitors opt for guided tours that cover the key sites in Coptic Cairo, including Abu Serga. This provides historical context and ensures you don't miss anything. Alternatively, you can explore independently.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus is generally free. Visitors are often encouraged to make a donation or purchase a candle.

The church is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check locally or aim for daytime visits to ensure it's open. Many social media posts show visits during daylight hours.

Since entry is free, advance booking is not required. You can visit spontaneously as part of your exploration of Coptic Cairo.

The crypt is a sacred space. Visitors are expected to be respectful. The passages can be narrow, so be mindful of others. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially in sacred areas. Some areas might have specific signage regarding photography.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's one of the oldest churches in Egypt, believed to be built on the site where the Holy Family rested during their flight to Egypt. The underground crypt is a key feature.

You'll find ancient architecture, religious icons, and the famous crypt. Some accounts mention a historical miraculous column within the church. Instagram

The crypt involves descending stairs and navigating narrow passages. Visitors with mobility issues might find it challenging. Reddit

A visit typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how long you spend in the crypt and exploring the church. It's often part of a larger Coptic Cairo tour.

Restroom facilities may be limited or basic. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or at nearby cafes if available.

📸 📸 Photography

The crypt offers a unique, atmospheric setting. The church's architecture and interior details are also photogenic. Be mindful of lighting conditions, especially in the crypt. TikTok

The crypt is dimly lit, which can make photography challenging. Using a phone with good low-light performance or a camera with a wide aperture can help capture the ambiance. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas. Look for any posted signs.

Many photos focus on the ancient stone walls of the crypt, the religious artifacts, and the overall historical atmosphere of the church. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and religious sites in Cairo. It's best to avoid bringing drones to prevent any issues.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Church of Abu Serga offers a unique educational opportunity for families to learn about biblical history. The story of the Holy Family seeking refuge is captivating for children. Descending into the crypt can be an exciting, albeit sometimes narrow, adventure. Ensure children are supervised closely due to the historical and potentially crowded nature of the site. TikTok

Consider framing the visit as a 'treasure hunt' for historical stories. The surrounding Coptic Cairo area also offers a chance to see other ancient sites, making for a well-rounded cultural outing. Keep in mind that the narrow passages in the crypt might be challenging for very young children or strollers.

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those on a spiritual journey, the Church of Abu Serga is a deeply significant destination. The belief that the Holy Family rested here imbues the crypt with a powerful sense of sacredness. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace and connection to history and faith within its ancient walls. InstagramReddit

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere, reflect on the stories, and perhaps light a candle for peace. The simplicity of the crypt, combined with its historical weight, can be a very moving experience. The surrounding Coptic Cairo area also offers a rich spiritual landscape with other ancient churches to explore.

🏛️ History Buffs

As one of the oldest churches in Egypt, dating back to the 4th century, Abu Serga is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Its connection to the biblical narrative of the Holy Family's flight to Egypt provides a tangible link to ancient history. The architecture itself, though modified over centuries, offers insights into early Christian building practices. Instagram

Beyond the church, the entire Coptic Cairo district is a living museum. Exploring the adjacent sites like the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue will provide a broader context of the area's historical and religious significance. Consider hiring a local guide to unlock deeper historical narratives and hidden details.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Holy Family's Refuge

The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, often called Abu Serga, holds profound significance as it is believed to be built upon the very spot where the Holy Family—Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus—sought refuge during their flight from King Herod's persecution. This biblical narrative is central to the church's identity and draws pilgrims and tourists alike. The underground crypt, where they are said to have stayed for approximately three months, is the most revered part of the site. Visitors often describe an overwhelming sense of emotion and spiritual connection upon entering this sacred space. TikTokInstagram+1

This tradition is deeply rooted in Coptic Christian history and folklore. The story recounts how the Angel Gabriel warned Joseph to flee to Egypt, and they found sanctuary in a cave, which is now the crypt of Abu Serga. The church itself dates back to the 4th century, making it one of the oldest Christian sites in Egypt. Its enduring presence serves as a testament to the long history of Christianity in the region and the enduring faith of its followers. Reddit

Exploring Coptic Cairo

The Church of Abu Serga is a jewel within the historic district of Coptic Cairo, a neighborhood rich with ancient churches, synagogues, and mosques. The area itself is a journey back in time, with narrow, winding streets that evoke a sense of historical depth. Many visitors find the atmosphere here to be quite unique, with some likening the experience to walking through Jerusalem. Reddit

Beyond Abu Serga, Coptic Cairo offers several other significant sites, including the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church) and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Exploring these landmarks together provides a comprehensive understanding of the diverse religious heritage of this part of Cairo. It's recommended to dedicate at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in the history and spirituality of this fascinating district. Instagram

Historical Accounts and Miracles

Beyond its primary significance as a refuge for the Holy Family, the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus is associated with other historical accounts and reported miracles. One notable story, shared by some visitors and historical accounts, involves a pillar within the church that is said to have mysteriously bled during Holy Week in the 20th century. This phenomenon, attributed to divine intervention, ceased through prayer, adding another layer to the church's spiritual aura. Instagram

These narratives, whether historical accounts or deeply held beliefs, contribute to the church's mystique and draw visitors seeking spiritual connection or historical intrigue. While the focus for many is the Holy Family's crypt, these additional stories enrich the visitor's understanding of the church's enduring legacy and its place in the tapestry of Coptic Christian tradition.

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