The Deir Abu Seiffein of Cairo
The Deir Abu Seiffein complex has three more interesting Coptic churches, of whichthe oldest, St. Mercurius Felopatir, dates from the 4th century. The saint was a military hero executed by the emperor for his religious beliefs, and his icon shows him with two swords: the military sword he used in life and a heavenly sword he earned as a martyr. His church has many superb icons, and a beautifully made altar screen done in the geometric Coptic woodwork style. In the small cave off to the side, a saintly hermit lived for twenty five years with a cobra.
The persecutions of Christians under the late Roman Empire created a strong monastic tendency in the Coptic church. Many Coptic monasteries exist around the country, often in remote and desolate places where the monks live free from worldly concerns. However, the monasteries of Wadi Natrun are easily accessible by bus from Cairo, and many Copts make regular visits. Many monasteries have English speaking monks who will show foreigners around and explain the history and beliefs of the Coptic church. Three of the four monasteries are open to the public, and provide a fascinating glimpse of Coptic art and the monastic lifestyle; however, since these are functioning religious centers, it is important to treat them with respect.
