Coptic Cairo occupies the oldest part of the oldest part of a very old city, and is of historical import to no less than four empires, three world religions, the two most important men in the Bible, and one of the oldest languages still spoken. It is the heart of Old Cairo and the birthplace of the city itself.
The architecture of Coptic Cairo tells the story of the passing of the ancient world and the drama of how the East and the West established a delicate coexistence, sometimes violent, sometimes peaceful, all within the space of a few city blocks.
This article looks at the history of the Coptic Quarter with special attention given to the Churches of Saints Sergius and Mary, and the Synagogue of Ben Ezra.
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Tags: Abu Serga, Babylon Fortress, Ben Ezra Synagogue, Cairo, Church of St. Mary, Church of St. Sergius, Coptic Cairo, Coptic Christianity, Fort Babylon, Hanging Church, Kheraha, Old Cairo, Roman Egypt
