Ancient Church

The Ancient Church is considered one of the most beautiful and largest historic churches among the monasteries of Wadi El Natrun. Its earliest core dates back to the 4th century AD, while later rebuilding and restoration works shaped the church across different historical periods.

The church was rebuilt during the 9th century, in the pontificate of Pope Benjamin II, following the fifth Berber raid on the monastery. The northern sanctuary belongs to this reconstruction period, while other architectural and artistic features were added in later centuries.

Across the church, visitors can see elements from several eras, including elevated domes, stained glass windows, stucco decorations, the architecture of the nave, and later modifications from the 10th, 11th, 12th, and 14th centuries. A special tomb for Pope Benjamin II is located in the southwestern section of the church, with a modern wall painting depicting the Pope above it.

The monks would gather here after Sunday liturgy to have breakfast together. One of the monastery's elders would sit at the head of the table to read passages from the Holy Bible or the book of the Monks' Garden, so that the monastic fathers could nourish body and soul alike, before each monk returned to his cell.

It is located on the western side of St. Bishoy Church, separated from the church by a narrow corridor two metres wide.

It dates back to the fourth century AD.

It is no longer in use, having been replaced by a modern table.

It contains many antique pieces and icons.