Day 01
Old Cairo and Citadel Highlights
- Your tour representative will pick you up from your hotel in Cairo to start the program.
- Transfer to the Citadel of Salah al-Din, which was built under the order of Saladin between 1176 and 1183 to protect the city from European attacks. Today, it is one of Cairo's main tourist attractions and offers privileged views over the city. Here, you will also visit Mohamed Ali "Alabaster Mosque," considered the largest mosque built at the beginning of the 19th century by the ruler of Egypt (1805-1849), who governed the country for over 45 years. It was built in Turkish style.
- Then, move on to explore Old Cairo. Visit Babylon Fortress, also known as the Wax Palace of Babylon Castle, an ancient fortress located in Cairo, Egypt. The fortress is considered one of the largest fortresses of Roman civilization in Egypt and one of the largest fortresses built by the empire. It also served as the center on which the city of Fustat was built.
- Go to the Hanging Church, which was built in the 3rd century and the 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 in Egypt's most magnetic city. With an essence that mixes Roman, Egyptian, and Babylonian architecture, it is a place where legend and history blur.
- Next, head to the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, which holds 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 Saints Sergius and Bacchus, who were martyred in the region of Rusafa in Syria according to Christian belief.
- Further, continue the tour to the Ben Ezra Synagogue. No one can be in Coptic Cairo without visiting the Ben Ezra Synagogue in Cairo, called El-Shamieen Church, now located behind the Hanging Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
- Afterwards, proceed to Amr Ibn El-Aas Mosque, the very first mosque built in Egypt. After that, transfer to important mosques and high places of worship for the Islamic faith in Cairo. With 80 percent of its population following Islam, Cairo showcases amazing architecture built for worship. Appreciate Islamic Cairo through its artistic mosques and sacred spaces.
- Later, return to your hotel to conclude the tour.
