«Here Your Heart Will...». Coptic Church of Nabateans in Sharm El Sheikh
About this experience
The building of the Coptic Church in Sharm El Sheikh attracts attention with its monumentality and at the same time elegant simplicity. And there is something to be surprised about inside too! Stained glass windows and frescoes will reveal biblical stories in a new light. Shrines and religious symbols will remind you of the special path of Coptic Orthodoxy. And local clerics will help you feel at home even far from your native shores.
What to Expect
Dialogue of Religions
Orthodox church in a Muslim country? Nothing surprising: in Egypt, every tenth believer professes Catholic or Orthodox Christianity. And immediately the question arises: is local worship different from what we are used to? The answer may be both "yes" and "no" - and both will be correct. We will show you a church in Sharm El Sheikh that will allow you to better study not only issues of faith, but also local architecture, art, and way of life.
Open to Views and the World
In Egypt, the Coptic branch of Orthodoxy is widespread. Its features are traced not only in symbolism, but also in a more simple and hospitable attitude to parishioners. To make sure of this, come to the Church of the Nabateans (another name - the church "As-Samaiyun"). It is open from morning till evening, not only during liturgies. We will take you to the church, wait as long as necessary, and take you back to the hotel.
What to Do Inside?
- Compare Coptic symbols of faith with those familiar to us;
- Examine frescoes executed in the style of naive minimalism and find familiar plots;
- Listen to prayers and psalms in English or Arabic;
- Hear about the traditions of Coptic Orthodoxy: address the temple's clerics with your questions - and you will learn a lot of interesting things;
- Visit the sacred place behind the altar of the church (entrance is allowed to everyone, not just clergy).
Liturgy Schedule
Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday - from 05:30 to 07:30
Wednesday - from 16:00 to 18:00
Friday - from 09:30 to 11:30
Saturday - from 08:00 to 10:00 (in English)
Organizational Details
- Women in the church may remain with uncovered heads. But the knees and shoulders must be covered with clothing. If necessary, you will be offered long scarves to put on (free of charge).
- Photography is allowed in the church
