Saint Catherine's Monastery
Closed until 09:00
South Sinai Governorate
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54 reviews
January 13
I decided to take an excursion without climbing Mount Moses, because I was afraid that I would not be able to reach the top. However, visiting one monastery without this ascent seemed a little meager to me. Of course, this site is a unique UNESCO monument, and it is worth a visit for anyone interested in history or religion. But there are a few things you should be aware of in advance.
Firstly, the journey to the monastery takes much longer than the actual stay at the place. Three hours there and three hours back is quite tiring. We spent only about an hour and a half in the monastery itself.
Secondly, after the COVID-19 pandemic, about 70% of the monastery's territory is closed to tourists, which also limits the possibilities of inspection.
Thirdly, although the local guides are pleasant and friendly people, their Russian language leaves much to be desired, and their knowledge of the Old and New Testaments is superficial. Therefore, it is better for you to prepare yourself in advance or study the information later, after the tour.
Finally, it is important to note that the weather in this area can be very cold, especially in the morning. This place is considered one of the coldest in Egypt, and snow sometimes falls here in winter. Be sure to take warm clothes!
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2
April 8, 2024
We were there a few years ago. We were traveling from Jerusalem, so it was quite long and tedious, on the way we swam in the Red Sea near the Israel-Egypt border crossing, arrived at the monastery after dark. We spent the night in a hotel at the monastery, simple, but clean, cozy, and quite comfortable to sleep. Early in the morning, or rather at night, at 2 o'clock, we got up and went in a column to Mount Moses. There were a lot of people, many rode on camels, which the Arabs provide there, it is inexpensive, it helps those people who cannot overcome the entire climb. There are halts along the way, Arabs sell tea-coffee-karkade. I am very thirsty, it is not easy to walk, the climb is steep and long. The last section is generally steep steps, there is no way on a camel, even for those who are completely infirm, they are helped, literally dragged up by those who are younger and stronger.
There is a wonderful unearthly beauty upstairs, everyone sits on the rocks and meets the sunrise. We also managed to hold a service in the chapel at the top, because the priest was with us, and the monks kindly gave him the key to the chapel.
It is much easier to descend, in general, we went all the way without halts. There was breakfast downstairs, quite hearty, we refreshed ourselves and went to the service. The monastery has a wonderful museum with ancient icons and in general a lot of interesting things. There are many foreigners, but most of the pilgrims are of course from Russia and Ukraine.
I strongly recommend you to visit, you will not regret it. The place is very salutary and blessed. Yes, no one is extorting anything, the Arabs are very friendly and unobtrusive.
I will be healthy and strong - I will definitely come again!
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23
September 8, 2024
It is definitely worth a visit, regardless of religion. A place of incredible beauty and strength.
We had an Egyptologist guide with us, who told us everything in detail and showed us. Honey, if you ever see this review, know that you are super!
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