The Hanging Church, officially known as Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church, is one of Egypt’s oldest and most significant Christian landmarks. Located in Coptic Cairo, it holds a unique place in the country’s religious and architectural history.

Name Origin: The church earned its “hanging” moniker due to its remarkable construction. It was built atop the southern gatehouse of the Roman Babylon Fortress, with its nave suspended over a passage. Logs of palm trees and layers of stone were used as a foundation above the ruins of the fortress, giving it the appearance of being suspended. Early travelers also called it the “Staircase Church” because of the 29 steps leading up to its entrance.

Dating: While the current structure is believed to date back to the Patriarchate of Isaac of Alexandria in the 7th century, a church existed on the same site as early as the 3rd century AD, possibly even converted from a Roman temple. It has undergone several reconstructions and renovations over the centuries, with a significant restoration under Pope Abraham in the 10th century. The current facade with twin bell towers dates from the 19th century.