Church of the Virgin Mary (Hanging Church)

Advocación mariana de El Cairo (El Cairo (barrio copto))
✔ Recognized by the Church

It is one of the oldest and best-known Marian churches in Cairo, located in the Coptic Quarter, on the site of the ancient Roman fortress of Babylon, and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is called the "hanging church" because it rests on the fortress's ancient gate, appearing to be suspended above the ruins. It belongs to the Coptic Orthodox Church, not the Catholic Church. No detailed historical documentation beyond its great age is readily available.

Main data

Origin and history

It is one of the oldest and best-known Marian churches in Cairo, located in the Coptic Quarter, on the site of the ancient Roman fortress of Babylon, and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is called the "hanging church" because it rests on the fortress's ancient gate, appearing to be suspended above the ruins. It belongs to the Coptic Orthodox Church, not the Catholic Church. No detailed historical documentation beyond its great age is readily available.

The image and the sanctuary

It houses Marian icons that have been highly venerated throughout the centuries. No detailed description of a specific titular image is readily available.

Patronage and coronation

It is not available.

Celebration and devotion

As a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it is linked to the major Marian feasts of the calendar. It is a center of intense Marian veneration, a place where Coptic Christians and Catholics come to pray, especially on Marian feast days.

Link with the Rosary

Visiting the Mother of God in this ancient temple invites us to meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary, contemplating with Mary the life of her Son. Praying the Rosary is a simple way to continue this age-old Marian prayer that has been kept alive here.