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A sanctuary of prayer, heritage, and spiritual wisdom in the desert of Wadi El-Natroun.
Learn MoreMonastery Hours
Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Monastery Location
Wadi El Natrun, Egypt
The Monastery of Saint Bishoy stands as a timeless sanctuary of prayer, heritage, and spiritual wisdom. Rooted in the 4th century, it continues to inspire generations through its sacred traditions and Coptic legacy.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
St. Bishoy Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Wadi El Natrun, was founded in the 4th century by Saint Bishoy. It is considered a beacon of monastic life and houses ancient churches, relics of saints, and unique spiritual treasures, making it an important spiritual and historical destination in the Coptic Orthodox Church. As the Holy Bible says: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10), this monastery offers believers an opportunity for contemplation and silence before the greatness of God.
The name “Bishoy” is a Coptic word meaning “the exalted” or “the elevated.” He was born in the year 320 AD in the village of Shentna in the Monufia Governorate. An angel appeared to his mother in a dream during the night and told her that God had chosen Pishoy to become a monk and that he would become a father to a great community of monks. When Anba Pishoy became a young man, he left the world and came to the desert of Wadi El Natrun in the year 340 AD, where he became a monk. He was discipled under Saint Anba Pamo and remained in the life of discipleship for 34 years.
The Monastery of Saint Bishoy is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Egypt and the world, dating back to the late 4th century AD. It was founded by the great Saint Bishoy. The Monastery of Saint Bishoy is located in the Wadi El Natrun desert, west of the Nile Delta in northern Egypt, roughly halfway between Cairo and Alexandria.
Space and architecture
The historic area of St. Bishoy Monastery covers approximately 2 feddans, 16 kirats, and 14 sahms (about 11,300 square meters). This area is surrounded by massive and high walls that were constructed in the 9th century AD. The length of the walls extends 116 meters from north to south and 95 meters from east to west.
St. Bishoy Monastery was chosen by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of blessed memory to serve as his papal residence during his leadership of the Church. He also chose it to be the resting place of his pure body after his departure, having left a will requesting to be buried there after his repose. It is also noteworthy that His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, may God preserve his life, graduated from this monastery and contributed to the development and construction of many buildings within the papal headquarters. He also established the international Logos Center there, which is considered an unprecedented architectural masterpiece. In addition, Pope Gabriel VIII and Pope Macarius III also came from this monastery. A large number of bishops and metropolitans likewise graduated from it.
May 25, 2025
May 17, 2023
May 7, 2015
"Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven"
Matthew 6:20
Support the monastery's spiritual life, hospitality, and community service. Account Number: 1234-5678-9012-3456
The retreat house is one of the distinctive spiritual places that gives young people the opportunity to step away temporarily from the pressures of daily life and devote themselves to reflection and prayer. It offers a three-day retreat program aimed at full spiritual dedication and spending time with God in a calm atmosphere that helps clear the mind and open the heart. The house is also distinguished by having a private church with an altar dedicated to Saint Mary the Virgin and Archangel Michael, which gives the place a deep spiritual character and enriches the retreat experience. In addition, the retreat house can accommodate around 70 young people, making it suitable for hosting youth groups seeking to experience a renewed spiritual life in an organized and peaceful setting.
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