The Hanging Church

The Hanging Church

After just a few steps of climbing, you can reach one of the most exquisite churches in the Middle East—the Hanging Church. Also known as the Church of the Virgin Mary, locally called El-Muallaqa, which means “suspended,” it was built between the 3rd and 4th centuries. The Church of the Virgin Mary is called the Hanging Church because it was built over the southern gate of an ancient Roman fortress wall—not actually hanging in midair.

The Hanging Church is arguably the most beautiful church in all of Egypt. Its snow-white towers and lovely crosses stand out against the deep blue sky, radiating the unique holiness and brilliance of a Christian church. In the sunlight, the plants in the church garden seem to glow with an almost unbelievable radiance, filling visitors' hearts with awe. Inside, the black altar table and chairs, ivory-inlaid screens, and marble pulpit are all exquisitely crafted. The interior also features carefully arranged elements, such as the small altar supported by 13 stone columns, symbolizing Jesus’ 13 disciples—one of which, made from black basalt, represents Judas who betrayed Jesus. The church also houses many relics of saints, among which the icon of the Virgin Mary is the most famous.

Walking through the interior of the Hanging Church and listening to the ancient Coptic language chanted during worship feels like stepping back into scenes of life in ancient Egypt.

The Hanging Church

Must-visit reason: One of the most exquisite churches in the Middle East

Continent: Africa【Africa】

Country/Region: Egypt[Egypt]

Province/State: Cairo Governorate [Cairo Governorate]

City: Cairo [Cairo]