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Cairo Heritage Tour: Discover the Rich Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Sites in One Day

Cairo Heritage Tour: Discover the Rich Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Sites in One Day

7 hours and 30 minutes
Easy

Embark on a spiritual journey through Cairo, exploring the city's rich religious tapestry. Start in the Coptic area, marveling at ancient holy churches and the venerable Ben Ezra Synagogue, delving into the intertwining Jewish and Christian histories that have shaped Egypt. The adventure continues to the architectural wonders of the 9th-century Ibn Tulun Mosque and the monumental Sultan Hassan Mosque and Madrasa, where engaging conversations with your Egyptologist guide will illuminate the foundational pillars and principles of Islam. Cap off this enlightening tour with leisure time at the sprawling Khan El Khalili market, savoring a traditional local drink at El Fishawy, Cairo's oldest coffee shop.

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Embark on a spiritual journey through Cairo's rich religious tapestry with a tour that introduces you to the city's cherished religious landmarks. Explore the quaint lanes of the Coptic area, home to ancient churches bearing centuries of Christian heritage, and stand in the historical aura of Ben Ezra, Cairo's oldest synagogue, uncovering the intertwined Jewish and Christian roots of Egypt.

Dive deeper into Cairo's spiritual history with a visit to the 9th century Ibn Tulun Mosque, marveling at its distinguished minaret, before standing in awe at the monumental mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan, a testament to Islamic architecture and education. Engage in enlightening conversations with your knowledgeable Egyptologist guide about the foundational pillars and rich principles of Islam.

The journey concludes with leisure time at Khan El Khalili, Cairo's sprawling market, where the scents of spices and the buzz of traders fill the air. Savor a moment of reflection over a traditional local drink at El Fishawy, the oldest coffee shop in Cairo, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant culture.

Itinerary

Discover the great religious heritage of Cairo through touring the holy churches of the Coptic area and the oldest synagogue in Cairo known as Ben Ezra. Have the pleasure of learning about the Jewish and Christian history of Egypt

Visit the 9th century mosque of Ibn Tulun with its unique minaret and the impressive gigantic mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan. Enjoy discussing with your Egyptologist guide all about the basic pillars of Islam and its principles

Then, enjoy some free time at Khan El Khalili, the biggest market in Cairo, and try a local drink at El Fishawy, the oldest coffee shop in Cairo

Itinerary:

Day 1: After spending your time in Coptic Cairo, you will move to the mosques. Built between 1356 and 1363 by the Mamluk ruler Sultan Hassan, the Madrassa-Mosque of Sultan Hassan is located at the Citadel Square, which is considered the pyramid of Islamic structures. This fascinating place was used as a school, mosque, and mausoleum. Your Egyptologist will provide you with an introduction to the main elements of the mosque and basic Islamic principles.

Day 1: The last part of the tour is the souk of khan El Khalili where you can have free time around the shops and cafes. Our tour guide will invite you to have a local drink in the oldest coffee shop in Cairo; EL Fishawy.

Day 1: Upon meeting your Egyptologist guide, you will start your day tour with the Coptic area where you will visit the Roman fortress of Babylon. The fort was built in the 1st century A.D; the ruins of one of the towers still exist while a very impressive church was built on the walls of another known as the Hanging church. Consecrated to Virgin Mary, the Hanging church was built in a basilica style. Let your eyes and feelings absorb the beauty of the wooden roof that resembles the Ark of Noah, the icons, the altars, and the pulpit. Then carry on to Abu Serga or St Sergius church. It is also known as the cavern church as the holy family stayed in the cave underneath the church during the escape journey in Egypt, a short walk will lead you into Ben Ezra synagogue, the oldest Jewish temple in Cairo. There you will learn about the history and customs of the Jewish community in Egypt. The temple is famous for the Geniza: archives of valuable and rare documents.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Qualified Egyptologist guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by private vehicle

Exclusions

  • Food and drinks, unless specified
  • Gratuities

Important Notes

  • Discover Cairo's religious heritage by touring Coptic churches and the oldest synagogue, Ben Ezra.
  • Learn about the Jewish and Christian history of Egypt.
  • Visit the 9th century Ibn Tulun Mosque with its unique minaret, and the impressive Sultan Hassan Mosque and Madrasa.
  • Discuss the basic pillars of Islam and its principles with an Egyptologist guide.
  • Enjoy free time at Khan El Khalili, Cairo's biggest market, and visit El Fishawy, the oldest coffee shop in Cairo.
  • The duration of transfers is approximate, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
  • Not stroller accessible.
  • Not suitable for pets.
  • No public transportation nearby.
  • Infant seats unavailable.
  • Not wheelchair accessible.

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