Red Monastery
دير الانبا بيجول والانبا بشاى
An early Christian basilica modeled after an Egyptian temple showcases some the best-preserved frescos from late antiquity.

📜 Coptic Orthodox monastery, one of Egypt's oldest Christian monasteries.
🔍 Built in the 4th century AD by Saint Pishay, named for its red brick walls.

Why Go

🎨 Best-preserved frescos from late antiquity, vibrant and well-preserved.
✨ Explosion of color, trompe-l’oeil, and geometric patterns inside.
🙏 Peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, often with few tourists.
🚶‍♀️ Experience the site as it was initially designed, unaffected by centuries of iconoclasm.

Why Avoid

⚠️ Limited access during Lent and other religious occasions.

Tips

🚌 Reach by public microbus from Monastery Lot (mawgif al-dayr) in Sohag.
🗣️ Resident monks can open the basilica, turn on lights, and provide explanations.

Last updated 1 day ago

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