• Abydos - A guide will take you from your hotel or from the train station in Sohag to begin your Coptic tour. Your first stop will be the Martyr Abu Fam Church.

Martyr Abu Fam Church

Currently serving as the archbishop’s church, this historic site dates back to the 18th century and features an archaeological design with twelve domes. Additionally, there is an ancient church on the tribal side named after the martyr Demiana. These churches were built on the site of an even older church, which houses the body of the martyr Abuo Pham beneath its altar.

Monastery of St. Yassa Michael

Originally used for burials or as a Doma, this site gained prominence due to the blessings, intercessions, and miracles associated with the saint. Bishop Anba Pham took an interest in the area, transforming it into a monastery known for its significant ecclesiastical activities. The saint, born into a monk’s family in Kom Ghraib, visited Jerusalem and later returned to live a life of communion. He passed away on June 10, 1962, the same day as St. Anba Abram, bishop of Fayoum. Spiritual phenomena have been reported at his grave.

Church of the Martyr Qaryakus and His Mother Yolita

Located in the city of Tahta, this church is now considered the mother church of the diocese and houses the diocese’s seat. The church has been expanded over various periods and features a decorated veil and several icons. The Archbishop also acquired relics of the martyrs Qaryakus and his mother Yolita from the Monastery of Prince Tadros in Hawamdiya. The church holds a significant celebration in their honor.

After a short break for lunch at a local restaurant, the tour continues to the Monastery of Saint Anba Shenouda in the Eastern Mountain.

Monastery of Saint Anba Shenouda

Situated north of the village of Arab Bani Wasel, this monastery is 4 km north of St. Thomas Monastery and 20 km north of Akhmim. The church, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, shares architectural similarities with the churches of Akhmim. It features three circular text structures, two lateral chambers, and a corridor behind the structures called the Curl. The nave has four round pillars with low domes, except for the middle dome, which is higher and supported by corner pleats. The church also includes two structures and a small courtyard. The architectural design of the Church of St. George Shenouda in the West Mountain influenced the construction of this church.

Monastery of Martyrs Kyprianus and Justina

This monastery church, with its archaeological domes, likely dates back to the 18th century. The few existing icons suggest its archaeological significance.

Monastery of the Angel in the East of Gerga

Located on the eastern road of Akhmim, this monastery’s church resembles those in Akhmim, featuring three temples and two side chambers. Historians believe this monastery is where St. Febronia, a martyr of chastity and purity, was killed during an attack. In the early 16th century, it was one of Egypt’s largest and most beautiful monasteries, housing 100 monks. The monastery holds significant prestige, and its archaeological church features a notable chair of St. Euseb.

At the end of the trip, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Sohag.

• Pick up and drop off
• Transfers in a private car
• Lunch in a local restaurant
• Mineral water
• Coptic attractions mentioned in the program
• Tour Guide

• Gratituties