Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga) Cairo
Ancient 4th-century church in Coptic Cairo, believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga) Cairo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient 4th-century church in Coptic Cairo, believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.
"The crypt is especially moving; a small spot tucked away in Old Cairo, definitely worth a visit."
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this holy site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore Coptic Cairo
Combine your visit with other historical churches and sites in the charming Coptic Cairo area. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Crypt of the Holy Family
Underground crypt
Descend into the sacred space where Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus are believed to have taken refuge. A truly moving experience.

Ancient Architecture
Main church area
Admire the 4th-century architecture and feel the weight of centuries of prayer and devotion within these walls.

Miraculous Column (Historical)
Main church area
Learn about the historical account of a column that reportedly bled during Holy Week, a testament to faith.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sacred Ground: A Glimpse of History
Navigating Coptic Cairo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this holy site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore Coptic Cairo
Combine your visit with other historical churches and sites in the charming Coptic Cairo area. :world_map:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Cairo can be hot, especially when exploring the old city. Carry water, especially if visiting during warmer months. :droplet:
💰 Donation Appreciated
While entry is free, consider a small donation or purchasing a candle to support the church and community. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this holy site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore Coptic Cairo
Combine your visit with other historical churches and sites in the charming Coptic Cairo area. :world_map:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Cairo can be hot, especially when exploring the old city. Carry water, especially if visiting during warmer months. :droplet:
💰 Donation Appreciated
While entry is free, consider a small donation or purchasing a candle to support the church and community. :moneywithwings:
📸 Capture the Moment
The crypt is dimly lit, so a good phone camera or a camera with low-light capabilities is helpful. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus deeply moving, particularly the crypt believed to be a sanctuary for the Holy Family. The ancient history and spiritual atmosphere are frequently praised, though some note the narrow passages and the challenge of verifying the historical claims.
"Very beautiful church, with its ancient history.
Don"t know Really if the savred family stay here in the cave, but I wanted to believe: so emotion when I go down in the crypt!
The visit is free. A little offer and a candle for peace could be a good idea!"
Lido Rossi
"Beautiful place, there are the big souvenir shop and there are reasonable price to you, and also the money spending here will used for helping Egyptian community, not mafia around. The church and shop own by the government."
Tat Orio
"This church is believed to be one of the places the Holy Family stayed during their time in Egypt. The underground crypt is especially moving. It’s a small spot tucked away in Old Cairo - definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the area."
Paulomi Roy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Coptic Cairo. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing app. It's also accessible via the Mar Girgis metro station. Many visitors explore the area on foot after arriving.
It's situated within the historic Coptic Cairo district. While the streets can be winding, following signs for Coptic Cairo or asking locals will guide you. Some visitors mention the approach feels like Jerusalem.
Yes, the Mar Girgis metro station is the closest public transport option. From there, it's a short walk to the church and the surrounding Coptic Cairo sites.
Parking in Old Cairo can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transport to avoid parking difficulties.
Many visitors opt for guided tours that cover the key sites in Coptic Cairo, including Abu Serga. This provides historical context and ensures you don't miss anything. Alternatively, you can explore independently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus is generally free. Visitors are often encouraged to make a donation or purchase a candle.
The church is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check locally or aim for daytime visits to ensure it's open. Many social media posts show visits during daylight hours.
Since entry is free, advance booking is not required. You can visit spontaneously as part of your exploration of Coptic Cairo.
The crypt is a sacred space. Visitors are expected to be respectful. The passages can be narrow, so be mindful of others.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially in sacred areas. Some areas might have specific signage regarding photography.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's one of the oldest churches in Egypt, believed to be built on the site where the Holy Family rested during their flight to Egypt. The underground crypt is a key feature.
You'll find ancient architecture, religious icons, and the famous crypt. Some accounts mention a historical miraculous column within the church.
The crypt involves descending stairs and navigating narrow passages. Visitors with mobility issues might find it challenging.
A visit typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how long you spend in the crypt and exploring the church. It's often part of a larger Coptic Cairo tour.
Restroom facilities may be limited or basic. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or at nearby cafes if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The crypt offers a unique, atmospheric setting. The church's architecture and interior details are also photogenic. Be mindful of lighting conditions, especially in the crypt.
The crypt is dimly lit, which can make photography challenging. Using a phone with good low-light performance or a camera with a wide aperture can help capture the ambiance.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas. Look for any posted signs.
Many photos focus on the ancient stone walls of the crypt, the religious artifacts, and the overall historical atmosphere of the church.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and religious sites in Cairo. It's best to avoid bringing drones to prevent any issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a 'treasure hunt' for historical stories. The surrounding Coptic Cairo area also offers a chance to see other ancient sites, making for a well-rounded cultural outing. Keep in mind that the narrow passages in the crypt might be challenging for very young children or strollers.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to absorb the atmosphere, reflect on the stories, and perhaps light a candle for peace. The simplicity of the crypt, combined with its historical weight, can be a very moving experience. The surrounding Coptic Cairo area also offers a rich spiritual landscape with other ancient churches to explore.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the church, the entire Coptic Cairo district is a living museum. Exploring the adjacent sites like the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue will provide a broader context of the area's historical and religious significance. Consider hiring a local guide to unlock deeper historical narratives and hidden details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Holy Family's Refuge
This tradition is deeply rooted in Coptic Christian history and folklore. The story recounts how the Angel Gabriel warned Joseph to flee to Egypt, and they found sanctuary in a cave, which is now the crypt of Abu Serga. The church itself dates back to the 4th century, making it one of the oldest Christian sites in Egypt. Its enduring presence serves as a testament to the long history of Christianity in the region and the enduring faith of its followers.
Exploring Coptic Cairo
Beyond Abu Serga, Coptic Cairo offers several other significant sites, including the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church) and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Exploring these landmarks together provides a comprehensive understanding of the diverse religious heritage of this part of Cairo. It's recommended to dedicate at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in the history and spirituality of this fascinating district.
Historical Accounts and Miracles
These narratives, whether historical accounts or deeply held beliefs, contribute to the church's mystique and draw visitors seeking spiritual connection or historical intrigue. While the focus for many is the Holy Family's crypt, these additional stories enrich the visitor's understanding of the church's enduring legacy and its place in the tapestry of Coptic Christian tradition.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit