Wadi El Natrun: Egypt’s Hidden Gem and a religious place

Wadi El Natrun: Egypt’s Hidden Gem and a Religious Place

Located between Cairo and Alexandria, Wadi Elnatrun is a calm environment where history, spirituality, and natural beauty come together. For centuries, it has served as a refuge for monks, travelers, and worshipers. The historical place gives a glimpse into Christian history in Egypt and explains an important part of Egyptian history and culture.

A Journey Through Time

The Natrun valley dates back to the Pharaonic era, where many battles were fought between ancient Egyptians and the Libyans. Eventually, the Egyptians defeated them and took the eastern half of the desert that still belongs to Egypt. Wadi El Natrun’s history and importance to the Copts date back to the 4th century, when early Christian monks escaped Roman persecution and took refuge in the valley.

Only four of the sacred monasteries in Wadi Natrun survived all these years. Each provides a different, special experience.

• Monastery of Saint Bishoy: The Monastery of Saint Bishoy was established in the fourth century by Saint Bishoy, and one wall was made of golden clay to protect it.

• The Monastery of Syrians: It is named after Syrian monks who came to Egypt in the eighth century and served for centuries as a home for them.

• The Monastery of Saint Macarius: One of the world’s oldest religious communities has been busy for over 1,600 years. It contains artifacts from the 4th century, including the 49 martyrs of Saint John the Baptist and Scetis. It mixes modern design with historic architecture.

• The Monastery of Romans: This spiritual retreat, also called the Monastery of Saint Macarius, is one of the world's most steady religious communities, having been occupied continuously for more than 1,600 years. It was built in the 7th century and is renowned for its peaceful gardens and murals in the Virgin's Church from the 11th century.

• The Monastery of Baramus: Deir El-Baramus, Wadi El Natrun's oldest monastery, provides an insight into the devotion and simplicity of religious life. Its historic walls and beautiful courtyards narrate tales of courage and faith.

Why visit Wadi El Natrun?

A visit to Wadi El Natrun is not just a historical visit, it is a spiritual one too. It is a journey to a place where spirituality, history, and nature meet. The place offers a great experience for different purposes, whether you are going for a spiritual experience or a religious experience, or you just want to unwind and relax.