Overview:

The Monastery of Saint Anthony is situated in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, on an island off the coast of the Red Sea in a region known as the Faran. It is one of Egypt's most famous coptic monasteries and one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the fourth century. The monastery enjoys an isolated yet captivating location, surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape, and is said to host some of the oldest surviving Christian biblical manuscripts in the world. It also boasts a vast and unforgettable collection of Coptic art that illuminate the depths of its extensive religious history. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Egypt
Prominent Features:

The Monastery of Saint Anthony (also known as the Monastery of St. Anthony the Great) is located along the banks of the Red Sea in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, approximately 135 miles from Cairo. Constructed in the mid-fourth century, at the request of St. Anthony the Great, this ancient monastery is the oldest Coptic Church in the world. The monastery is dedicated to and named after the father of monasticism; Saint Anthony, who is also known as Anthony the Great. He was born in Coma, Upper Egypt in the third century, and took on a life of an ascetic during his twenties. The Monastery of St. Anthony the Great is a three-story complex with multiple churches, courtyards, and bell towers. In addition to its religious significance, the architectural grandeur of the monastery, in addition to spectacular views of the surrounding desert, attract visitors from all over the world. Its walls are decorated with 11th - 12th century frescoes, which are some of the earliest surviving examples of Christian art. The monastery library also houses important religious texts and manuscripts. The Monastery of Saint Anthony is a place of peace, prayer and reflection. Its secluded location, along with the hallowed atmosphere, is a reminder of past monks, who struggled through inclement conditions to find strength in this tight-knit Christian community. This is a living legacy of the sacrifices made by Saint Anthony and countless Coptic monks over thousands of years. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Egypt.

History:

The Monastery of Saint Anthony (also known as Anba Antonios) in the Red Sea region of Egypt is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, and among the most important centers for Coptic monasticism. It dates back to the 3rd century AD when it was founded by St. Anthony, the “Father of Monasticism”, who lived in the area for nearly two decades. Since its founding, the monastery has had many renovations and expansions, most notably in the 5th century under the orders of Emperor Theodosius II, and in the 8th century under the authority of the Coptic Church. Today, the monastery still stands as one of the largest Coptic monasteries in the country, as it houses around 2,000 Coptic monks on its grounds. The monastery offers impressive historical sites, such as the 4th century Church of Saint Anthony, a highly regarded relic of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and two Coptic chapels. Visitors to the monastery can enjoy the stunning views of the Red Sea and the surrounding mountains, as well as take part in a variety of activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and spending time in the nearby village of Talla’a. Visitors also can stay at the monastery itself, as it features a variety of guesthouse and accommodations, some of which include views of the nearby mountains and beach. Visit one of the famous monuments of Egypt with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Monastery of Saint Anthony is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. It was founded in the 4th century AD by Saint Anthony and Saint Paul the Hermit. It is located in the Eastern Desert of the Red Sea in Egypt, on the western edge of the thebes mountain range. 2. The Monastery of Saint Anthony was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 as part of the group of monasteries known as the Red Sea Monasteries. 3. The Monastery of Saint Anthony is home to about 250 monks of the Eastern Orthodox Church, as well as many other Christian denominations. It is the oldest continuously inhabited monastery in the world and one of the most visited in Egypt. 4. Since its founding, the Monastery has served as an important center for Christian worship, learning, and pilgrimage. Many important Christian martyrs and hermits have lived at the Monastery during its long history, and pilgrims have continued to visit the Monastery for many centuries. 5. Among the many relics kept at the Monastery is an ancient pocket-watch that was believed to have belonged to Saint Anthony. The watch's hands are believed to have stopped on the day Saint Anthony's died, and the watch has sat there for centuries. 6. The Monastery of Saint Anthony is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors coming to see its beautiful frescoes and artwork, its unique atmosphere, and to take part in the regular monastic services. The courtyard of the Monastery is especially popular with tourists, as it is one of the few places in the world where Asian and African cultures mix side by side. One of the historical monuments of Egypt, it tells the story of a bygone era