Hanging Church, Old Cairo

Description

Al-Mo’allaqa Church (Hanging Church), built over one of the Roman bastions, visible at the back of the church. The building is reached via a steep staircase and a vestibule where Coptic souvenirs are on sale. The church probably dates from the 7th century, although some Cops claim it’s older. Its dark interior is magnificent, with cedar paneling, a wooden Ark-like ceiling, a fine carved marble pulpit supported by 12 pillars representing the Apostles, and superb 13th century panels inlaid with bone and ivory hiding the three haikals (altars). A famous wooden lintel showing Christ’s Entry into Jerusalem was found at Al-Mo’allaqa; it dates from the 5th/6th century. However, the earliest mention of the church came during the reign of Patriarch Joseph, when he referred to the destruction of the church’s upper section down to the columns on the orders of the Governor of Egypt.

Church synods were held in Al-Mo’allaqa to determine on which day Easter would fall or to judge priests or bishops suspected of heretical teaching. The Holy Chrism (sacred oil) was consecrated several times in the church under the direction of patriarchs during this period.

In the eastern part of the church stand three sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary (centre), Saint John the Baptist (right) and Saint George (left). These sanctuaries are fronted by wooden screens. The splendid screen adorning the central sanctuary features ebony inlaid with ivory and dates from the 12th/13th centuries. It is carved into segments showing fine geometric designs and crosses. A series of icons decorates the top of this screen. In the centre Christ is enthroned, with the Virgin Mary, the Archangel Gabriel and Saint Peter to His right, John the Baptist, the Archangel Michael and Saint Paul to His left.

Top tips

 - Attend a Coptic Mass at the Hanging Church (Friday 8—11am and Sunday 9—11am) and hear the sound of the pharaohs, as the Copts claim to be their direct descendants. The instrument, music and language you hear are Family’s stay in the area.

- Hidden gems to the right of the entrance of the Hanging church is a beautiful 10th century icon of the Virgin and Child with obvious Egyptian facial features.

- Walk along the alleys behind the 11th century St Barbara’s church to discover a hidden Christen cemetery.