Overview:

Wadi el-Natrun is a desert in the north-west of Cairo, Egypt. It is located in the depression of the Nile Delta, and includes 9 Coptic Orthodox monasteries, the most important of which is Deir el-Baramus. Aside from being a source of great religious significance, these monasteries are known initially as centers of Biblical study, copying, and bookbinding. These monasteries date back to the 4th century, when the first monks of religious or devotional intent resided on mount Nitrian. Communal life has been present in Wadi el-Natrun since the 8th century, and since the 9th century, this area has been an important area for center of pilgrimage and learning. Today, the monasteries serve as important locations for the Coptic Orthodox Church, containing many relics of the Church’s history and more. They also offer retreat, rest, and an escape from the hectic life in Cairo. Visitors of Wadi el-Natrun have included spiritual leaders like Pope Benedict XVI, who visited this area to pay homage to these ancient churches. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Egypt
Prominent Features:

1. Located in the Western Desert of Egypt, the Wadi el-Natrun monasteries are some of the earliest Christian monastic complexes in the world. 2. The monasteries were first established in the approximately fourth century by Saint Anthony the Great and are believed to have played a key role in the development of early Christianity. 3. The ancient monasteries still remain largely intact, offering visitors an insight into the past. 4. Visitors can explore the many churches, chapels, courtyards, and living quarters that make up the monasteries. 5. Among the most notable churches is the Church of the Nativity, which is the oldest still functioning church in Egypt. 6. The Wadi el-Natrun monasteries are widely respected for their spiritual and cultural heritage, and are one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the region. 7. The monastic complex is home to thousands of monks, and it continues to attract many worshippers and visitors from around the world. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Egypt.

History:

The Wadi el-Natrun Monasteries in Egypt, also known as the Monastery of the Areopagus, have a long and fascinating history dating back to the 4th century. According to tradition, St. Anthony of Egypt founded the first monastery in the Natrun Valley in the year 284. While the history is disputed, it is believed he cited the biblical story of the Biblical Areopagite in Athens, where the Apostle Paul preached. This valley was key to the development of Christianity in Egypt as it provided a refuge to anchorites and those seeking to become hermits. The Monastery of the Areopagus is the oldest of the eight monasteries of the Wadi el-Natrun, consisting of St. Macarius the Great, St. Macarius the Lesser, St. Bishoi, St. John Kame, St. Hesychius, St. Isidore, St. Pishaya, and St. Apollo. The monasteries played an important role in the spiritual, intellectual and social life of Egypt during the Byzantine period. Many renowned figures who influenced the development of Christian thinking throughout history were affiliated with the Monasteries, including the Cappadocian Fathers of the 4th century: St. Basilius the Great, St. Gregory of Nazianzus and St. Gregory of Nyssa. The monasteries were also the heart of religious arts, literature, and music in Egypt. Numerous manuscripts, frescos, and icons are found throughout the monasteries and attest to the flourishing of the arts. The libraries of the monasteries contained much of the works of the Church Fathers, as well as commentaries on the Bible, Apocryphal works, and other religious texts. Music was also a major part of the religious life at the Wadi el-Natrun Monasteries. Thousands of hymns, liturgies, psalms, and chants were composed and performed at the monasteries. The Wadi el-Natrun Monasteries endured attacks, destruction, desertion, and rebuilding during its long history. In the 7th century, Bedouin raids damaged and destroyed most of the monasteries. Rebuilding efforts did not begin until the 11th century. By the 12th century, the monasteries were restored to their former glory. However, the monasteries suffered another attack in the 14th century when Timur Lenk sacked Egypt. Once again, the monks abandoned the monasteries and returned in the 16th century. Today, Wadi el-Natrun Monasteries are still home to a small but dedicated community of monks. It remains an important part of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt and plays a role in transmitting the Christian faith and traditions for generations to come. Visit one of the famous monuments of Egypt with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Wadi El-Natrun is the modern name for the ancient desert called Scetis, meaning "Desert," located in the western part of the Nile Delta. 2. It is believed to be the birthplace of monasticism in Egypt, with the first monk, St. Macarius the Great, settling in the desert in c.347. 3. St. Macarius’ Monastery is one of the four main monasteries located in the Wadi El-Natrun, also known as the Nitrian Desert. 4. The other three are St. Bishoi's Monastery, the Monastery of St. Pishoi, and the Monastery of St. Abraham (Deir Abu Makar). 5. All four monasteries are Coptic Christian monasteries and are currently still in use and actively maintained by the Coptic Church. 6. The monasteries are home to many relics, including ancient manuscripts, icons, clothing, and other artefacts. Some of these date back to the fourth century. 7. The monasteries have been damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries, including during the Arab invasion of Egypt in the seventh century. 8. Today, visitors to the monasteries can enjoy the frescos and religious art within the walls, such as the depiction of the Last Judgment in St. Macarius’ Monastery. One of the historical monuments of Egypt, it tells the story of a bygone era