Exploring Cairo’s Spiritual Heart: Monastery of St. Simon and Old Cairo

Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt, is not only the political and cultural hub of the country but also a city steeped in millennia of spiritual history. For travelers seeking a Cairo Religious Heritage Tour, the combination of ancient Christian, Jewish, and Islamic landmarks offers a rare and immersive journey into Egypt’s religious soul. Among the highlights of this tour is the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion, an unforgettable experience blending history, architecture, and panoramic vistas.

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pricing 

Group Size	Price per Person
1 person	€150
2 people	€120
3–4 people	€110
5–11 people	€90
12–18 people	€75
More than 18 people	€60

What to See in Old Cairo in One Day

• The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church)
  One of Egypt’s oldest churches, built above the Roman Babylon Fortress, famous for its wooden ceiling and ancient icons.

• Abu Serga Church (Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus)
  Believed to be the place where the Holy Family stayed during their journey through Egypt.

• St. Barbara’s Church
  Renowned for its rare wooden icons and traditional Coptic architecture.

• Greek Orthodox Church of St. George
  Distinguished by its circular design and Byzantine mosaics.

• Ben Ezra Synagogue
  The oldest synagogue in Cairo, reflecting Egypt’s Jewish heritage and religious coexistence.

• Babylon Fortress
  Remains of the Roman stronghold around which Old Cairo developed.

• Coptic Museum (optional)
  Showcases the world’s largest collection of Coptic Christian art and manuscripts.

• Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque
  The first mosque built in Africa, marking the beginning of Islamic Cairo.

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Islamic Cairo Highlights (Same Day)

• Citadel of Salah El-Din (Saladin Citadel)
  A medieval fortress offering panoramic views over Cairo and housing historic mosques, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali.

• Mosque of Muhammad Ali (Alabaster Mosque)
  Famous for its Ottoman-style architecture and commanding skyline presence.

• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
  Cairo’s most famous traditional market, filled with spices, jewelry, lanterns, souvenirs, and historic cafés such as El-Fishawy.

• Al-Muizz Street (optional extension)
  One of the oldest streets in Islamic Cairo, lined with mosques, madrasas, and palaces.

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Why This One-Day Route Works

✔ Combines Christian, Jewish, and Islamic landmarks
✔ Minimal travel time between sites
✔ Balanced mix of history, culture, architecture, and local life
✔ Ideal for first-time visitors and cultural travelers

Cairo Religious Heritage Tour: A Journey Through Faith, History, and Culture

The Cairo Religious Heritage Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the spiritual heart of Egypt, where Christianity, Judaism, and Islam have coexisted for centuries. This carefully designed full-day experience takes travelers through some of Cairo’s most sacred and historically significant sites, revealing the deep cultural layers that shaped the city over thousands of years.

The journey begins at the Monastery of St. Simon, also known as the Cave Church, located in the Mokattam Hills. Carved directly into the mountain, this remarkable Christian complex is one of the largest churches in the Middle East. Massive stone amphitheaters, biblical carvings, and peaceful chapels create a powerful spiritual atmosphere. From the upper terraces, visitors enjoy panoramic views over Cairo, making this stop a highlight of the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour.

Next, the tour continues to Old Cairo, one of the most important religious districts in the Middle East. This historic area is home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt. The famous Hanging Church, built above a Roman fortress, showcases beautiful wooden ceilings and ancient icons. Nearby, Abu Serga Church is believed to be built on the site where the Holy Family rested during their journey through Egypt. These sacred landmarks provide a deep insight into early Christian history and traditions.

Old Cairo is also where visitors discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, the oldest Jewish synagogue in Cairo. Its historical significance and preserved manuscripts reflect the long-standing Jewish presence in Egypt. The coexistence of churches and synagogues within the same district demonstrates the religious harmony that defines the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour.

The Islamic chapter of the journey begins with a visit to the Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque, the first mosque built in Africa. Founded in 642 AD, this mosque marks the beginning of Islamic Cairo. Its open courtyard, marble columns, and tranquil atmosphere offer a spiritual contrast to the earlier Christian and Jewish sites.

The tour then leads to Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, where history meets daily life. This centuries-old market is filled with traditional crafts, spices, jewelry, and local cafés. Walking through its narrow alleys allows travelers to experience Cairo’s living culture and interact with local artisans.

The final stop is the Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the world’s most influential centers of Islamic learning for over 1,000 years. Its stunning architecture and scholarly legacy make it a perfect conclusion to the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking cultural depth, spiritual insight, and historical understanding. By combining sacred landmarks, expert guidance, and authentic local experiences, the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour offers a meaningful and unforgettable journey through Egypt’s religious legacy.

The Monastery of St. Simon: A Cave Church Carved in Stone

Perched high in the Mokattam Hills, the Monastery of St. Simon, also known as the Cave Church, is one of Egypt’s most remarkable Christian sites. For centuries, it has served as a spiritual center for the Coptic community, while also attracting visitors from around the world.

Key Highlights:

1. Vast Capacity: The main church can accommodate thousands of worshippers, making it one of the largest cave churches in the world.

2. Rock-Carved Architecture: Every wall and column is carved directly from the mountain, demonstrating a unique blend of engineering and artistry.

3. Panoramic Views: From the monastery terraces, visitors can see the sprawling city below and the Zabbaleen community, known as the Garbage City, which has a fascinating cultural story of recycling and resilience.

4. Amphitheaters and Murals: Visitors will marvel at intricately painted murals and rock-hewn amphitheaters, which are still used for religious ceremonies and cultural events.

For those on a Cairo Religious Heritage Tour, this is an unparalleled introduction to Egypt’s Christian history and architecture. The monastery provides both spiritual inspiration and breathtaking vistas, making it a must-see stop on the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion.

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Old Cairo: Where Abrahamic Religions Converge

After descending from Mokattam, the tour continues into Old Cairo, a district steeped in history where Christianity, Judaism, and Islam intersect. This area, also known as Fustat, is home to some of Cairo’s most ancient and revered religious sites.

Notable Landmarks in Old Cairo:

1. The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church): Built atop a Roman fortress, this church is famous for its elevated position and intricate wooden ceilings.

2. Abu Serga Church: Believed to have hosted the Holy Family during their journey through Egypt, this church is a spiritual cornerstone of the Coptic faith.

3. St. Barbara’s Church: Known for its rare wooden icons and traditional Coptic architecture.

4. Greek Orthodox Church of St. George: Featuring Byzantine architectural elements and beautiful mosaics.

5. Ben Ezra Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in Cairo, historically significant for the Jewish community.

The St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion allows travelers to explore this rich tapestry of religious history, giving insight into the spiritual life of Cairo over centuries.

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Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque: Africa’s Oldest Mosque

The tour then transitions into Cairo’s Islamic heritage with a visit to the Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque, founded in 642 AD. As the first mosque built in Africa, it is not only a spiritual site but also a symbol of the spread of Islam across the continent.

Key Features:

• Historic Courtyard: Open and welcoming, perfect for reflection.

• Marble Columns and Architecture: The mosque’s design blends simplicity with elegance, demonstrating early Islamic architectural principles.

• Spiritual Atmosphere: A quiet and contemplative space for prayer and reflection.

For participants on the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour, this mosque provides historical context for Islamic Cairo and complements the Christian and Jewish sites explored earlier.

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Khan El-Khalili Bazaar: The Heartbeat of Cairo

No St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion is complete without a visit to the iconic Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East. Here, visitors can experience Cairo’s vibrant local culture.

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Al-Azhar Mosque: A Legacy of Scholarship

The final stop on the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour is Al-Azhar Mosque, a global center for Islamic learning for over a thousand years. Its minarets and open courtyard embody centuries of religious scholarship and architectural beauty.

Highlights:

• Historic Minarets: Iconic and instantly recognizable in Cairo’s skyline.

• Scholarly Legacy: Home to generations of Islamic scholars and students.

• Spiritual Ambiance: Visitors often describe a sense of tranquility and reverence upon entering.

This mosque serves as a fitting conclusion to the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion, offering insight into the intellectual and spiritual life of Egypt.

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 Immersive Experience: Monastery of St. Simon and Old Cairo

The second stage of the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour delves deeper into the cultural, architectural, and spiritual significance of each site, ensuring travelers gain a rich understanding of Egypt’s religious history.

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Monastery of St. Simon: Beyond the Cave

While the first impressions of the monastery captivate with scale and panorama, a closer exploration reveals intricate craftsmanship and deep symbolism.

Detailed Highlights:

1. Rock-Hewn Chapels: Inside the monastery, small chapels carved from the mountain walls offer intimate spaces for prayer. Each chapel contains hand-painted icons, depicting saints and biblical scenes in vivid colors.

2. Stone Carvings and Reliefs: The church features elaborate stone carvings, some illustrating stories of the Old and New Testament. These carvings were created by skilled artisans, maintaining traditional Coptic styles.

3. Amphitheater Events: The monastery’s natural amphitheater hosts religious celebrations, festivals, and community gatherings, offering a living experience of Coptic culture.

4. Cultural Interaction: Visitors often meet monks or local parishioners, gaining insights into daily religious life and traditions in Mokattam.

This deeper exploration elevates the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion beyond sightseeing into a profound cultural experience.

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Old Cairo: Layers of History

Old Cairo is not just a collection of buildings; it is a living chronicle of Egypt’s spiritual journey. Walking its streets allows visitors to witness how Christianity, Judaism, and Islam have coexisted for centuries.

Key Churches and Synagogue:

• Hanging Church: Named for its position atop the Roman fortress walls, its wooden roof is adorned with hand-painted panels and icons dating back centuries.

• Abu Serga Church: Thought to have hosted the Holy Family, this church emphasizes the deep historical roots of Christian pilgrimage in Egypt.

• St. Barbara’s Church: Known for its rare wooden icons and beautifully decorated interiors.

• Greek Orthodox Church of St. George: Its Byzantine architecture and vibrant mosaics showcase the multicultural nature of Cairo’s Christian community.

• Ben Ezra Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in Cairo, famous for its historical significance and architectural preservation.

The St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion brings these sites together in a logical route, making it easy for travelers to experience the spiritual diversity of the city in one day.

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Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque: The Birth of Islam in Africa

Visiting the Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque connects travelers to the early spread of Islam in Egypt. Founded in 642 AD, the mosque represents the beginning of Islamic architecture and community life on the continent.

In-Depth Highlights:

• Courtyard and Prayer Halls: Open-air courtyards invite reflection, while prayer halls feature marble columns and ancient inscriptions.

• Historical Artifacts: The mosque contains remnants of early Islamic craftsmanship, including original minbar (pulpit) elements and decorative calligraphy.

• Cultural Significance: This mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Africa’s Islamic heritage.

In the context of the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour, this site provides a spiritual and educational counterpoint to the Christian and Jewish landmarks visited earlier.

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Khan El-Khalili Bazaar: Living Culture

After exploring historical and religious sites, the tour continues into the bustling Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, where history merges with everyday life.

Immersive Experiences:

1. Shopping: Stalls offer spices, traditional jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs, representing centuries of Egyptian craftsmanship.

2. Local Cuisine: Visitors can sample traditional Egyptian street foods or enjoy tea at historic cafes such as El-Fishawy.

3. Cultural Observation: The bazaar provides a glimpse into local customs, bargaining culture, and vibrant social interactions.

The St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion balances the spiritual and the sensory, ensuring travelers experience both Egypt’s religious and cultural vibrancy.

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Al-Azhar Mosque: The Intellectual Heart of Cairo

The final stop, Al-Azhar Mosque, emphasizes Islamic scholarship and architectural beauty.

Highlights and Insights:

• Open Courtyards: Designed for community gathering and spiritual reflection.

• Minarets and Domes: Architectural elements that symbolize both religious devotion and historical continuity.

• Educational Significance: Al-Azhar University, adjacent to the mosque, has trained scholars for over a millennium, making it a cornerstone of Islamic thought.

Ending the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour here provides closure to the spiritual narrative of the day, connecting the Christian, Jewish, and Islamic elements into one cohesive journey.

the most frequented Questions

1. What makes this tour special?
   It combines Cairo’s most important Christian, Jewish, and Islamic sites in one day.

2. How long is the tour?
   Approximately 9 hours, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

3. Is lunch included?
   Yes, a traditional Egyptian buffet lunch is included.

4. Are professional guides included?
   Yes, a licensed tour guide is included for the entire day.

5. Can this tour be private?
   Yes, both private and group options are available.

6. Where is the pickup location?
   Pickup is available from any hotel, airport, or residence in Egypt.

7. What is the Monastery of St. Simon?
   A unique Christian cave church carved into Mokattam Mountain, featuring amphitheaters, murals, and panoramic views.

8. What can I see in Old Cairo?
   The Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church, St. Barbara’s Church, Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, and Ben Ezra Synagogue.

9. Is photography allowed?
   Yes, photography is allowed at most locations.

10. Can children join this tour?
    Yes, it’s family-friendly and educational.

11. Are there rest stops?
    Yes, several stops include scenic viewpoints and cafes.

12. Is transportation air-conditioned?
    Yes, all vehicles are fully air-conditioned.

13. How much walking is involved?
    Moderate walking; comfortable shoes recommended.

14. Can I add a professional photographer?
    Yes, optional photographer services are available for €100/day.

15. Is the Nile boat ride included?
    It’s optional and available for $70 per group.

16. What is unique about Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque?
    It is the oldest mosque in Africa, dating back to 642 AD.

17. Can I explore Khan El-Khalili Bazaar freely?
    Yes, visitors can shop and explore alleys with guidance from the tour leader.

18. How long should I spend at each site?
    Each stop is timed to allow adequate exploration without rushing.

19. Is the tour suitable for elderly travelers?
    Yes, vehicles and pacing are designed for comfort.

20. Why is this tour recommended?
    It offers a comprehensive and immersive look at Cairo’s religious history, architecture, and culture in one seamless day.

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 Enhancing Your Cairo Religious Heritage Tour Experience

This stage focuses on practical tips, optional add-ons, and storytelling to immerse travelers in the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion.

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Transportation and Comfort

Traveling between Mokattam Hills, Old Cairo, and Islamic Cairo requires reliable transportation. The Cairo Religious Heritage Tour includes:

• Air-conditioned private vehicle: Ensures comfort during the 9-hour tour.

• Professional driver: Familiar with Cairo traffic, routes, and local customs.

• Flexible pickup and drop-off: From hotel, airport, or residence anywhere in Egypt.

This seamless transportation allows travelers to focus on exploration and reflection rather than navigation, making the day more relaxing and enjoyable.

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Optional Add-Ons

To enrich the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion, travelers may choose from:

1. Professional Photographer (€100/day): Capture the day with high-quality photos at every landmark.

2. Private Nile Boat Ride ($70/group for 1 hour): Experience the Nile from a serene perspective, adding a scenic and leisurely pause between historical sites.

3. Guided Cultural Interaction: Some tours offer local storytelling or interaction with community leaders in Old Cairo, giving deeper context to traditions and religious practices.

These optional experiences add layers of enjoyment and engagement to the day, making the tour highly customizable.

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Visitor Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Dress Code: Respectful attire is recommended for religious sites—long sleeves, modest clothing, and comfortable walking shoes.

• Photography: Most sites allow photos, but always check signs and ask permission when necessary.

• Hydration: Bottled water is provided, but carrying extra water is recommended, especially in hot months.

• Timing: Start early to avoid mid-day crowds at key attractions like the Monastery of St. Simon and Khan El-Khalili Bazaar.

• Interaction: Engage with monks, shopkeepers, or local guides—they often share stories not found in guidebooks.

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Cultural Insights and Storytelling

Monastery of St. Simon

Legend has it that the mountain was once barren, and through faith and community effort, the Copts carved a church inside it. Standing in the cavernous interior, visitors can almost hear echoes of centuries-old prayers, making the visit both spiritual and historical.

Old Cairo Churches and Synagogue

Walking through Old Cairo is like stepping into a layered timeline of faith. From the Hanging Church perched above Roman walls to the Ben Ezra Synagogue with centuries of Jewish heritage, travelers experience a mosaic of beliefs, traditions, and architecture in one compact area.

Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque

At the mosque, the quiet rhythm of prayer calls and the marble columns’ serenity evoke the early days of Islamic Egypt. Understanding the mosque’s historical significance helps contextualize Cairo’s modern religious diversity.

Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

The bazaar is more than shopping—it is a living museum. Aromas of spices, vibrant textiles, and the chatter of merchants create a dynamic environment where tradition and daily life coexist.

Al-Azhar Mosque

Ending at Al-Azhar, travelers witness the continuity of faith, education, and culture. The mosque is a reminder that spiritual and intellectual life in Cairo has flourished for over a millennium, linking every site visited that day into a coherent story of religious history.

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Lunch and Refreshments

The Cairo Religious Heritage Tour includes a traditional Egyptian buffet lunch. Guests enjoy:

• Local dishes such as koshari, falafel, and grilled meats

• A comfortable, culturally decorated dining space

• Time to rest and reflect on the morning’s experiences

Lunch provides a social and culinary highlight, balancing sightseeing with relaxation and flavor.

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Safety and Accessibility

• Safe Travel: All transportation and tours comply with local safety standards.

• Accessibility: While the Monastery requires some climbing, the tour is designed for moderate physical effort, with options for those needing easier access.

• Child-Friendly: The tour is suitable for children, with interactive and visual elements in Old Cairo and the bazaar.

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A Complete Immersive Journey Through Cairo’s Religious Heart

In this final stage of the narrative, we fully immerse travelers in the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour, exploring every landmark with rich historical context, sensory details, and cultural storytelling.

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Monastery of St. Simon: Experiencing the Sacred Mountain

Arriving at Mokattam Hills, the Monastery of St. Simon reveals its dramatic presence. The rocky cliffs seem to touch the sky, and carved stairways lead visitors into the heart of this Coptic marvel.

Sensory Highlights:

• Visual: Murals depicting saints and biblical stories, stone-carved amphitheaters, and panoramic city views.

• Auditory: The echo of choir chants and occasional prayers fill the cavernous spaces.

• Tactile: Smooth stone walls polished by centuries of hands touching in devotion.

Walking through the monastery, guests not only witness architecture but feel a connection to centuries of religious devotion—a core experience of the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion.

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Old Cairo: A Tapestry of Faith

Old Cairo’s streets tell stories of coexistence and resilience. Each church and synagogue reveals layers of history:

• Hanging Church: Elevated above the old Roman fortress, its wooden ceilings and ancient icons tell stories of faith surviving empires.

• Abu Serga Church: The believed resting place of the Holy Family provides a sense of living history.

• St. Barbara’s Church: Rare wooden icons and intricate interiors transport visitors to medieval Coptic life.

• Greek Orthodox Church of St. George: Byzantine mosaics illustrate Egypt’s multicultural spiritual past.

• Ben Ezra Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in Cairo reveals Jewish continuity and heritage in the city.

This segment of the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour demonstrates Egypt’s interwoven religious traditions, giving travelers insight into centuries of coexistence.

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Khan El-Khalili Bazaar: Living History and Culture

Khan El-Khalili is a feast for the senses:

• Sight: Colorful textiles, glittering jewelry, and vibrant alleyways.

• Sound: Merchants calling out wares, locals bargaining, and live Arabic music.

• Smell: Aromas of spices, coffee, and traditional Egyptian cuisine.

• Taste: Tea or coffee at El-Fishawy Café, an iconic stop with over 200 years of history.

The bazaar adds a dynamic, interactive component to the St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion, combining spirituality with local life.

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Al-Azhar Mosque: The Culmination of Spiritual Exploration

The mosque perfectly ties together all elements of the Cairo Religious Heritage Tour, offering a final lesson in faith, architecture, and history.

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Lunch Experience

A traditional Egyptian buffet lunch punctuates the day:

• Dishes: Koshari, falafel, grilled meats, fresh salads.

• Ambiance: Decor reflecting Egyptian culture, offering a relaxing break.

• Opportunity: Share experiences and insights with fellow travelers, creating a social and cultural exchange.

Lunch complements the tour by providing a taste of Egyptian life alongside the spiritual journey.

• UNESCO – Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/86/ UNESCO World Heritage Centre

• WorldHeritageSite.org – Pyramids (Memphis): https://www.worldheritagesite.org/list/pyramids‑memphis/ World Heritage Site

• UNESCO – Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis (Luxor / Thebes): https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/87/ UNESCO World Heritage Centre

• Ehttps://momotoursegypt.com/trip/west-bank-luxor-tour-valley-of-the-kings-valley-of-the-queens-hatshepsut-temple-ramesseum-colossi-of-memnon-optional-hot-air-balloon-ride/gyptian Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities – Ancient Thebes: https://egymonuments.gov.eg/world-heritage/ancient-thebes-and-its-necropolis/ EgyMonuments

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• St. Simon Monastery and Old Cairo Excursion

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