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The Holy Family in Egypt

The Journey of the Holy Family in Egypt is an important event in Christian history and Islam as it portrays the refuge of Joseph, Mary the Virgin, and Jesus Christ from the persecution of "King Herod" after the warning from an angel to Joseph in a dream about the intention of Herod to kill all the male children in the area so they traveled through so many places in Egypt where they performed many miracles, and later they went back to Palestine after the angel told Joseph in another dream that Herod had died. This great event was mysterious and has been a source of inspiration for believers throughout history for the Christian society and Egyptians. It also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah, who said: "It will be a sign and witness to the Lord Almighty in the land of Egypt".

When they cry out to the Lord because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue them. The Lord will make himself known to the Egyptians, and the Egyptians will know the Lord on that day and worship with sacrifice and offering. The Lord will strike Egypt with a plague; he will strike them and heal them. They will turn to the Lord, and he will respond to their pleas and heal them. The main goal of the article is to provide a comprehensive guide to the places in Egypt that are believed to have been visited by the Holy Family during their stay in Egypt. Through our meticulous research, Trips In Egypt Team will take our readers on an amazing journey through time to allow them to connect with the profound spirituality of these sacred places.

What Was the Reason Behind the Journey of the Holy Family to Egypt?

Reasons Behind the Journey of the Holy Family to Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Reasons Behind the Journey of the Holy Family to Egypt - Trips in Egypt

A group of wise men presented Jesus over 2000 years ago as a prophet chosen by God and destined to become the ruler prophet of the Jews during this period. This remark alarmed "King Herod" who tried to put an end to this budding menace. Fearing for their life, the Holy Family set out on a perilous trek from Bethlehem to Egypt. So, their journey began in the northern areas of Sinai and led them to the village of Farama, each place where the Holy Family took sanctuary, which was later consecrated with churches and monasteries. Tel Basta was the next stop on their journey where Jesus blessed the area, as it caused a miraculous spring to come out from the soil. Their way brought them to the sacred lands of the Valley of Natroun which is located in the western desert of Egypt. The Valley of Natroun later became famous as the earthly birthplace of monasticism, and the Christian people dedicated themselves to worship.

The Holy Family traveled to Matariyah and Ain Shams neighborhoods of Cairo where Jesus blessed a water well. Virgin Mary washed Jesus' garment and emptied the water on the ground, which resulted in a balsam tree blossoming, and it was later used for holy Myron. They went to old Cairo and sought sanctuary in a cave that is known today as the Abu Serga Church within the fortress of Babylon, this site later became a worldwide pilgrimage site. The next destination of the family was Al Maadi where they constructed the Church of the Virgin Maryin Maadi along the Nile River before sailing south on the Nile.

The Holy Family traveled later to Minya where they crossed the Nile River from the west bank to the city "Assiut" and stayed for six months. After three years in Egypt, the Holy Family retraced their paths and went back to Palestine when they heard that King Herod had died. They visited Assiut again where the Christians greeted them with joy, they also stopped by Matareya, where a spring had sprung up when Mary washed Jesus' clothes. The spring still flows today and is revered by many pilgrims.

Where Did the Holy Family Stay in Egypt?

The journey of the Holy Family in Egypt has great importance for both Christians and Muslims as it is a symbol of divine protection and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The Holy family traveled across the country from the Nile Delta to Upper Egypt, and they stayed in many places that became sacred sites for Christians and Muslims. These places include churches, monasteries, caves, wells, and springs that still attract tourists who want to follow the path of the Holy Family.

1. Bethlehem

Bethlehem - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Bethlehem - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Bethlehem is an iconic pilgrimage site that began with the journey of the Holy Family who fled to Egypt from "Herod". Bethlehem is a town of great religious significance, and it lies six miles south of Jerusalem. This amazing destination is where the famous king "David" was born, and where Jesus Christ was also born. They left their home in Nazareth, where they had lived quietly, to go to Bethlehem, where they had to register for the census ordered by the Roman emperor.

The Holy family faced many difficulties along the way, such as the Samaritans, the cold nights, the hungry wolves, and the greedy robbers; however, they did not know what awaited them in Bethlehem, whether they would find a place to rest or not. They only knew that God was with them and that he had a plan for their child. The journey took them about four or five days, and they had to walk most of the way or ride on a donkey. Finally, they arrived in Bethlehem at night, and they had hoped to find a house where they could stay, but there was no place for them except a stable.

2. The Sinai Desert at Rafah

The Sinai Desert - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
The Sinai Desert - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The journey of the Holy family continued when they reached the northeastern edge of Egypt, "Near Rafah City". This was an important event that marked the start of their refuge in the Sinai Desert. The first place that the Holy Family visited in Egypt was Rafah, which is a town on the border with Palestine. Here, they saw the power that saved them from the thirst of the desert and the anger of the people. 

The Holy Family crossed the border under the cover of darkness, and they followed an angel who showed them a secure place; it was a vital point that controlled the warfare between Egypt and Palestine. They proceeded with their journey through Sinai and arrived at Tell al-Farama, where they saw a statue of Isis and Osiris.

3. The Journey through Mariamiah

Mariamiah - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Mariamiah - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family traveled through Sheikh Zouaid in Arish and Baloza city which is now called "Farama". They arrived at Tell al-Farama, where they drank from a spring of sweet water and ate from a palm tree. They also prayed at the ruins of a temple that was dedicated to Horus who was the god of the sky.  The only green thing in these lands was a grass called "Mariamiah" which looked like green tea. Mariamiah was very important as the people say that the Virgin Mary ate this grass when she was in these places.

The Holy Family departed from Mariamiah after half a year, went to the south, and left behind a blessing and a promise that whoever visits this place will receive grace and healing from God. The monks kept the memory of their visit and passed it on to the next generations from all over the world. There is an amazing monastery that is still standing today as one of the oldest and holiest places in Egypt.

4. The Mount of Churches

The Mount of Churches - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
The Mount of Churches - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family continued their journey in the Sinai Desert until they arrived near "Farma" where an old fortress and some pillars remain to the day and age. There is also a memory of the monastery of St. Virgin Mary and St. Isidoros El-Farmy among these ruins. This area is known as "The Mount of Churches" because of its religious importance and a great place where the Holy Family found consolation during their journey to Egypt.

It is said that a series of miraculous events occurred at the Mount of Churches as legends tell of a spring that appeared to provide water for the Holy Family during their stay.

5. Tel Basta

Tel Basta - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Tel Basta - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Tel Basta is located 81 kilometers northeast of Cairo in the governorate of Sharqiah, which is a great destination in the journey of the Holy Family to seek refuge and safety. Jesus showed his divine power by making a spring of water appear from the earth, and by destroying the statues of the pagan goddess Bastet. Tel Basta was also called Bubastis, and it was a sacred city for the ancient Egyptians who worshipped Bastet, the cat goddess. 

Now, Tel Basta is a field of ruins with a cat cemetery and mummified museum that demonstrates objects from the old and Coptic times. The journey of the Holy Family Tel Basta is one of the many stops that the Holy Family made in Egypt, there are many churches and monasteries that honor these places, and some of them have icons related to the Holy Family. This miracle remains important for the Holy Family in Egypt, and it still attracts pilgrims to Tel Basta.

6. The Holy Family in the Town of Mostorod

Mostorod - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Mostorod - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Mostorod (which was known as Al-Mahama) is located about 10 kilometers from Cairo. Al-Mahama means "The Bathing Place" and has got its name from the deed of the Virgin Mary of washing the Christ Child there. The Holy Family had visited Mostorod, where their presence caused a spring that still flows to this day and age.

Jesus made this spring of 18 springs that he dug in Egypt during his journey and some of many of them still exist today which is unbelievable. Many people come to visit the town of Mostorod at the feast of Mary the Virgin.

7. The Holy Family at the Town of Belbeis

Belbeis - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Belbeis - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family left Mostorod and headed northeast to Belbeis, a town in the Sharquia governorate. In Belbeis, the Holy Family rested under a large tree known as "The Tree of Mariam", and they enjoyed the peace and prayed to God. According to some stories, the Virgin Mary hung the clothes of the Christ Child on the branches of the tree after washing them. As soon as the Holy Family came near, the statues of the goddess broke and fell to the ground as a sign of the power and presence of Jesus Christ. The Egyptians of Belbeis were amazed by this event.

The Holy Family did not stay long in Belbeis, as they continued their journey towards other places in Egypt, and they left behind a legacy of faith for the people of Belbeis who later became Christians and built a church in honor of the Virgin Mary and her connection with this place. Many people still visit Belbeis to pray and honor the Holy Family and their journey in Egypt.

8. The Town of Samanoud

Samanoud - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Samanoud - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Church of the "Virgin Mary" and "St. Abanoub El Neheisy" are historical treasures in Samanud that lie in the governorate of Gharbeya. The diocese of Mehalla El-Kobra oversees this sacred place as it is an important area in history due to the visit of the Holy Family who traveled through the northern parts of Egypt. The people of Samanud received them with great joy, and Jesus performed a miracle by giving life to a dead person. The Holy Family stayed in Samanud for a long time.

A woman from the city of Samanud gave the Virgin Mary a stone bowl for kneading dough, and the Virgin Mary used this bowl to make bread for the Holy Family; this amazing bowl is still preserved in a glass case in the church courtyard. Next to this holy place, there is a spring from which the Holy Family drank water. The water from this spring is still poured into the old bowl, and it blesses everyone who visits this holy site. Samanud has also witnessed the journey of the Holy Family, which is a place of faith and miracles and one of the stops of the Holy Family in Egypt. The town of Samanoud also hosts a yearly celebration that remembers the visit of the Holy Family and draws many visitors from different parts of Egypt and the world.

9. The City of Sakha

Sakha - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Sakha - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Sakha is a city in Kafr El Sheikh Governorate near the Mediterranean Sea, and it was an important stop for the Holy Family on their journey from Samannud. The Coptic name of the city is "Bikha Isos" which means in the old language "The Foot of Jesus" because he was here and he left his footprint on a rock, which is still kept in a glass case in the Church. The rock is also said to offer healing, and many people touch it and ask for grace.

The rock also has the words "God is One" written below it. There is also a well that miraculously sprang from the rock, and it provided water for the Holy Family. The city also had a monastery called “Deir El Maghtas” which was destroyed in the 13th century and replaced by a lasting church.

10. Wadi El-Natroun

Wadi El-Natroun - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Wadi El-Natroun - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family traveled westward from Sakha to the Natroun Valley in the Beheira governorate. This valley is 60 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide and was called "Sokhty Hamam" or "Wady El-Malh" in Arabic which means "The Valley of Salt" because of its salty lakes used by the pharaohs for mummification. The Holy Family suffered from thirst in this desert area, so Jesus Christ performed a miracle and created a freshwater well that is now called "The Source of Mariam". The Holy Family drank and rested in Wadi El-Natroun. This also becomes useful for healing diseases like psoriasis.

The Natroun Valley also saw the birth of monasticism in 330 AD under St. Makaire the Great. St. Makaire lived in a cave in the western part of the valley where the Baramos Monastery was founded by Saint Domadios and Saint Maximos who were the sons of a Roman King. As more monks joined the Monastery, St. Makarios left Baramos Monastery and built the Monastery of Anba Makar in the Eastern part of the Natroun Valley. Later, this monastery became famous as it had more than 15 Coptic Church patriarchs coming from it. Baramos Monastery also gained fame in the 19th and 20th centuries.

There are two other important monasteries were built between Anba Makar and Baramos Monastery “St. Bishoy Monastery” which was established in the 5th century by St. Bishoy, and St. Virgin Mary El-Sourian Monastery which was built in the 6th century near the cave of Bishoy for prayer. This cave still exists today next to the main church of the Sourian Monastery. The last Monastery was founded after the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD and is called the Monastery Surian because of the presence of Syriac Orthodox monks.

The desert of Shihit in the Natroun Valley was famous for the teachings of monastic. This place attracted monks from different countries and different people who wanted to learn monasticism according to the old traditions of monks. Monasteries like the Saurians, Ethiopians, Armenians, and Nubians had a great role in this desert. The Saurians Monastery was known for its hermits, monks, and a large library containing ancient manuscripts in many languages, such as Coptic, Arabic, Syriac, Greek, English, French, and Ethiopian.

The Pope of the Coptic Church, SS Pope Shenouda III came from the Sourians Monastery and raised the reputation of the church worldwide with his deep knowledge. Many bishops were well-educated and had wisdom and also originated from this monastery in Wadi El-Natroun.

11. El-Matarieh and Ain Shams

El-Matarieh and Ain Shams - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
El-Matarieh and Ain Shams - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

When the Holy Family traveled to Cairo, they visited Matariyah and Ain Shams, where another miracle happened. In Ain Shams, Jesus blessed a well with holy water and his mother Mary washed his clothes there. The Virgin Mary also poured some of the water on the ground, and a balsam tree sprouted from it. This tree was later used to make the holy Myron oil.

The Holy Family continued their journey and reached Old Cairo where they hid in a cave. This cave became the famous church of Abu Serja, which lies inside the walls of the Babylon fortress. This place became a holy site for pilgrims from all over the world who came to see where the Holy Family stayed. These places where the Holy Family went in Matariyah, Ain Shams, and Old Cairo are still important for faith, and many people visit them today.

12. El-Zeitoun

El-Zeitoun - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
El-Zeitoun - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

After leaving Matarieh, the Holy Family continued their journey in Egypt and rested for a while in the area of Zeitoun. This place became the site of a miraculous event on April 2, 1968, when the Church of the Virgin Mary on Toman Bay Street witnessed the appearance of the Virgin Mary. This was not a one-time occurrence, but a series of visions that lasted for a year and attracted hundreds of thousands of people from different religions.

The church gained worldwide fame and recognition because of the appearance of Mary which it still enjoys today. The Coptic Church celebrated the 50th anniversary of this unbelievable phenomenon in 2018 with a grand ceremony in honor of the Virgin Mary.

13. Haret Zoueila

Haret Zoueila - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Haret Zoueila - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family came to Haret Zoueila in the 4th century in Egypt which is a place of great spiritual importance and drank from a well that still exists today. A Coptic man named "Hakim Zeilon" obeyed the command of God and built an old church that was the home of the popes for more than 300 years and had two monasteries next to it for the Virgin Mary and St. George.

The faithful sisters in this monastery follow the example of the Virgin Mary, and they are living in worship and the love of God in the same place that was graced by the presence of Mary the Virgin.

14. Ezbawia

Ezbawia - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Ezbawia - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family left Haret Zoueila and headed to Old Cairo, and they crossed Ezbakiah. This home was where nine church leaders lived for more than a century and a half. This place shows how much the Holy Family blessed it when they were there. Near the Cathedral of St. Mark, there is a place that used to be farmland when the Holy Family came here. There was a big garden with fruit trees, and at the entrance of Ezbaweya, there was a well, called the “Well of Ste. Virgin Mary” where the Holy Family drank water.

This place has a wonderful miracle because the Holy Family met an Egyptian farmer who was planting watermelon seeds. The farmer talked to the Virgin Mary, and she told him that the seeds would grow into ripe watermelons overnight. That is what happened, and when the soldiers of “Herod” came looking for the Holy Family, the farmer told them about them and the watermelons. This confused them, and they could not find the Holy Family. This is how the Holy Family traveled through these old places, and their visit made those lands sacred.

15. Abu Serga Church

Abu Serga Church - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Abu Serga Church - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Family found shelter in a refuge under the Fortress of Babylon in Old Cairo where they lived for three months. This refuge became a church over time, and a bigger church was built over it later. This sacred place of worship is called “the Church of Abu Serga” and was named after Saints Sergeos and Bacchus. The Church of Abu Serga is famous worldwide and attracts tourists who want to be blessed at the place where the Holy Family stayed. Inside Abu Serga, there is an old well that the Holy Family used to drink from, and there is also a deep pool that relates to the history of Christianity. To celebrate the Epiphany, churches made large holes at their entrances filled with water. Abu Serga Church is one of the oldest churches.

Next to Abu Serga Church, there is another church from the same time called "The Hanging Church". This church got its name from being built on more than a tower of the old Roman fortress of Babylon. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has historical importance. There is also the Coptic Museum, which was founded by Séméka Pasha, a Christian who loved Coptic history. Abu Serga Church celebrates the arrival of Christianity in Egypt on the 24th of the Coptic month, ‘Bashans’.

16. The Church of the Virgin Mary in Maadi

Maadi - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Maadi - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The place where the Holy Family stayed in the "Maadi" district is a historical site that connects to the religious past. Maadi was an important stop for the Holy Family as they crossed the Nile River from here to go to Upper Egypt. The church was built to remember their visit, and it was called "The Church of the Blessed Virgin", Maadiya, which means who crossed, and The Holy Family left “Maadi” by boat to continue their journey. The whole area was later named ‘Maadi’ after this great event. There was also a monastery here, called “The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin El-Adwiya” where monks lived, but when the city expanded, the monks moved to the desert for more peace. The monastery then became a church that serves the local people who worship there. In the courtyard of the church of the Virgin Mary, there is a special place, a hole that leads to stairs going down to the Nile, and this is where the Holy Family got on the boat.

Some religious people saw a miraculous thing at this church after the Holy Mass on March 12, 1976. A Holy Bible was floating on the Nile water, and it moved towards the door of the church. The Book stopped before the stairs that lead to the church, and the people picked it up. They were surprised to see that it was open to the Book of Isaiah, chapter 19 which says “The prophecy against Egypt: See, the Lord rides on a swift cloud and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt tremble before him, and the hearts of the Egyptians melt with fear." Isaiah 19:1 (NIV) and "The Lord Almighty will bless them, saying, 'Blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria my handiwork, and Israel my inheritance." Isaiah 19:25 (NIV)

In the church, a glass hut shelters the Holy Bible, which has been left open on this page for ages. The Church has guarded it with care as a witness to the journey of the Holy Family to this blessed land through Egypt.

These verses highlight the presence and power of the Lord in Egypt and the blessings bestowed upon the people.

17. The Village of Deir El-Garnos

Deir El-Garnos - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Deir El-Garnos - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Village of Deir El-Garnos is located in Minya Governorate, about 20 km west of Maghaghah. The Village attracts pilgrims for its spiritual importance and is inhabited by Christians. The main attraction of the village is “the Coptic church” which dates back to the 19th century. This church is a witness to the history of Christianity in Egypt.

The church has a holy well inside it which has a connection to the Holy Family. According to tradition, the Holy Family drank from this well when they stayed in this place. Deir El Garnos is a spiritual place where you can follow in the footsteps of the Holy Family.

18. Al-Bahnasa

Al Bahnasa - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Al Bahnasa - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Bahnasa is a place of ancient sanctity and historical relevance as it is one of the places where the Holy Family sought refuge during their journey in Egypt. Near Bahnasa, there is a site called “Abai Issus” which is believed to be the House of Jesus. This is where the Holy Family stayed, at the village of Bani Mazar which lies east of Bahnasa.

This village offers a chance to experience the spiritual legacy of the presence of the Holy Family in Egypt. Although most of its inhabitants are Muslims today, Bahnasa has a great Christian past as it was once a major Christian diocese and had many churches and monasteries.

A wonderful piece of history can be seen in the courtyard of the mosque of the village where two large trees bear the inscription "The Tree of Mariam". This is where the Holy Family also visited during their stay in Egypt.

19. The Monastery of the Virgin Mary - Gabal El Teir

GabalEl Teir - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
GabalEl Teir - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Discover the secrets and wonders of Gabal El Teir, the "Mountain of the Birds" which has been a witness to the divine and the historical events that shaped this land. As you explore the mountain trails, you will feel a sense of reverence for the sacredness of this place. Visit the Monastery of the Virgin which is a jewel of Coptic Christianity and a living testimony of the ancient traditions of this community. This monastery was founded in the 4th century and is an oasis of serenity in the desert. You will witness the skill of its art which expresses the faith and imagination of the monks who reside here.

The mother of King Constantine, "Queen Helena" came to this place in the 4th century and built a church in honor of the Virgin Mary. The church is unique because it is cut into the mountain and has a large space inside. Inside the church, there is a big stone column in the middle of the church that has a basin for baptism.

20. El-Ashmounin - Malawi

Malawi - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Malawi - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The religious history of Egypt has great significance because of the journey of the Holy Family across its lands. The Holy Family crossed the Nile and headed west to El-Ashmounin which is an ancient city full of monuments, monasteries, churches, and saints. Among them was "Sawiros El-Anba Mokafaa" a 10th-century bishop who witnessed the miracle of displacement of Mount Mokattam in Cairo.

Sawiros El-Anba also preserved the biographies of the patriarchs from St. Mark, the founder of the Coptic Church in Egypt to his successors. These historical events prove the cultural and religious significance of El-Ashmounin and the other places that the Holy Family visited. Their journey is a link between the ancient legacy of Egypt and its spiritual heritage as it highlights the importance of these places in Egyptian history and culture.

21. Mair

Mair - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Mair - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

Mair is an ancient village in the Nile Delta region of Egypt that lies about 7 kilometers away the west of Quoseya city. Mair has a long history that goes back to the times of the pharaohs when it was called Meir or Meira and had a magnificent temple dedicated to the god Osiris. The Holy Family traveled there and received great kindness from the villagers, and Jesus and the Virgin Mary blessed them for their generosity, which made the village of Mair famous until now for its lasting wealth.

Mair became a hub of Christian monasticism and learning during the Coptic era, and several monasteries were built in and around the village such as the Monastery of St. Mary, the Monastery of St. Macarius, and the Monastery of St. Bishoy. The village also has some ancient and Coptic monuments, such as the remains of the Osiris temple, the spring and the palm tree of the Holy Family, and the churches and monasteries that date back centuries.

22. Muharrak Monastery

Muharrak Monastery - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Muharrak Monastery - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The history of Egypt and Christianity is closely related to Mount Qosqam where the monastery of Muharraq stands today. This mountain was visited by the Holy Family, a key story in the Christian faith. The Holy Family, consisting of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus, escaped to Egypt from the persecution of Herod the King. The Holy Family lived in this mountainous area for some time. Mount Qosqam is therefore a revered place of spirituality, believed to be one of the spots where the Holy Family found refuge in Egypt.

The stay of the Holy Family in Mount Qosqam reflects the historical and religious legacy of the place. They are said to have inhabited a cave at the base of the mountain; this cave, called the "Holy Family Cave" is now a holy site of pilgrimage for Christians.

The Muharraq monastery is a great site in terms of history, architecture, and spirituality. The monastery dates back to a crucial historical era, and its architecture shows craftsmanship. The spiritual hub offers peace and connection, while also playing a vital role in preserving cultural heritage through events. Deir Muharraq is not an ancient site, but a living expression of our identity and values.

23. The Monastery of the Virgin Mary in Assiut

Assiut - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Assiut - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

One of the most important sites in the history of Christianity is the Monastery of the Virgin Mary in Assiut City where the Holy Family found another refuge. This monastery preserves the memory of a crucial event in the life of Mary, Jesus, and Joseph, and it allows visitors to connect with their sacred story. By visiting Assiut, pilgrims, and tourists can experience the same place that once protected the Holy Family for a powerful and moving experience.

The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Assiut is a great example of architectural diversity as its design incorporates elements from both Coptic Christian and Islamic traditions. Visitors can witness the ancient walls decorated with elaborate patterns and a church that reflects the history of Christianity in Egypt. Assiut is not only a place of historical and architectural interest; it also offers a distinctive spiritual and cultural experience as the location of the monastery on a hill provides a calm setting for contemplation.

Assiut is also home to the Coptic Christian community, and visiting the monastery allows travelers to engage with local Christians. Seeing the daily life of the local community and observing their religious practices can be a great aspect of the visit.

And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son".

The Feast of the Entry into Egypt

Feast of the Entry into Egypt - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Feast of the Entry into Egypt - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Coptic Orthodox Church celebrates this feast on June 1st on the Gregorian calendar and 24 Pashons on the Coptic calendar, this feast is one of the Seven Minor Feasts of the Lord. Mary the Virgin Mother held Jesus in her arms when the Holy Family entered Egypt, with Joseph at her side and Salome accompanying them. The feast also celebrates the connection between Egypt and Christianity. This is a great festival that honors the historical event of Jesus' coming to the land of Egypt. The church remembers this event every year as it shows the spiritual bond between the journey of the Holy Family and the Christians of today. 

As a result, the Lord's intention for us is to follow this example, walk in his footsteps, and escape from sin and evil. This getaway is a plan that we should always remember, believe in, think about, and follow. There was also a spiritual purpose for Jesus' entry into Egypt to create a church for the lord in the center of Egypt, as well as to abolish and demolish the pagan temples that had spread across the country and perverted it. So, we can believe that the journey of the Holy Family to Egypt is a journey with an important goal aimed at establishing the Temple of God in Egypt.

Biblical Connection and the Role of Egypt in Early Christianity

Role of Egypt in Early Christianity - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt
Role of Egypt in Early Christianity - Places Where the Holy Family Stayed in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The Holy Bible demonstrates the connection between Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and Egypt, and the role of Egypt as the most direct connection is in the Gospel of Matthew, where Joseph is warned in a dream to take Jesus and Mary to Egypt to escape Herod's massacre of infants.

Matthew 2:13-15 (NIV): "When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. ‘Get up,' he said, 'take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.' So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night, and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'Out of Egypt I called my son'.

Explanation: This passage highlights the connection between Jesus, Mary, and Joseph with Egypt. Joseph is instructed by an angel to take his family to Egypt to escape King Herod's threat. This event fulfills the prophecy from the Old Testament (Hosea 11:1) that emphasizes that just as God called the nation of Israel out of Egypt, He also called His Son, Jesus, out of Egypt, underscoring the parallel between Jesus and the history of God's people.

After Herod's death, the Holy Family returned from Egypt.

Matthew 2:19-21 (NIV): "After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, 'Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead.' So he got up, took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel."

Explanation: This passage solidifies the connection between Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and Egypt, and it recounts their return from Egypt to the land of Israel after King Herod's death. The Holy Family's time in Egypt is a significant part of Jesus' early life. These events were seen as the fulfillment of a prophecy in the Old Testament.

Egypt Travel Packages for a Spiritual Awakening

Ultimately, the Holy Family in Egypt is more than a historical event as it is a living story that connects us to the sacred roots of this land. By following their trail, we can discover the places where they sought, prayed, and performed miracles. Trips In Egypt invites us to join the Holy Family in their journey of love, so, do not miss this opportunity to witness the wonders of God in Egypt through our Egypt travel packages, and let the Holy Family guide you to your spiritual awakening.

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Breathtaking 7 days Cairo, Luxor & Hurghada holiday to explo...

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FAQ

What Should I Wear While Being in Egypt?

You should wear whatever you want. It is advised to wear something light from cotton or linen, comfortable and put on sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the sandy terrain.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should bring a brimmed hat and sunglasses if you not used to the Egyptian sun &pack everything you could ever need and put in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Are All Nile Cruises Available at Any Time?

Yes, it is available all years. as the Nile from Aswan to Luxor takes three to four days of sailing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the total cost of 600$ and the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take four to five days in Saturday, Monday and Thursday for the coast of 650$.

Why book Trips in Egypt?

We have experience in vacation planning for more than 10 years & our staff consists of the most professional operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort create the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time advisors to fit your every possible need during your time in egypt. we always keep in mind that your safety & comfort are our main priority until you return home.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to egypt, You will feel secure in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is very peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt and construct an entire environment dedicated for ensuring the lives of all tourists.

What are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

They are very simples, If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries(check the link), have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD entry fee in cash. As for the E-Visa for 30 days, you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could be one of the countries eligible for a free visa for 90 days.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature of Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c, Summer in Egypt is somehow hot and winter is cool and mild but sometimes it becomes cold at night. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 23 ¡ÆC in the summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 32 ¡ÆC in the summertime while the temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What is the Best Time of Visit Egypt?

It is known the best time to travel to Egypt is in the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical, a warm atmosphere with a winter breeze. You will also be notified a week before your trip if the weather is unsafe or if any changes have been made.

Should I Give Tips in Egypt?

It is totally up to you, but if you choose to you can tip the servers at your restaurant 5-10% by handing it to them directly and 5 Egyptian Pounds as a general tip of anyone.

Can I Enter the Pyramids?

Yes, you can enter the pyramids for the small fee of 20$.

How to Enjoy Egypt During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims that should be celebrated by non-Muslims and feel the essence of the Islamic culture. You can fast with the Muslim or just observe but you are always welcome to join the celebrations and festivals.

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About Trips In Egypt

Trips In Egypt was founded in 2002 when it launched, since then the company specialized in providing trips in Egypt only which includes tour packages, vacations, Nile cruises, day trips, shore excursions, and any kind of trips in Egypt.

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