Old Cairo

A tour of Old Cairo provides the chance to see some of the relatively little known but fascinating Christian and Jewish heritage of the city. The Copts (Coptic Christians), thrust into the limelight in 2012 with the election of their new pope, are an ancient Christian church whose language is the only descendent of the language of the Pharaohs. The Hanging Church is one of their most impressive constructions, built over a Roman gatehouse, with the nave situated directly over a passageway. As well as the dramatic setting, the interior holds an assortment of treasures, from ancient icons to delicate frescoes and impressive marble columns. The nearby Coptic Museum is home to many important artefacts, some 15,000 of which are on display and help to unveil the story behind this little-known Christian church. You can also see the Ben Ezra Synagogue, believed to be built on the spot where Moses was found in the bulrushes, a reminder that Egypt has a surprisingly prominent role in both Jewish and Christian history.