Monastery of St. Catherine
Quick Facts
- Location
- Egypt
- Category
- Church & Religious Site
- Duration
- 1–1.5 hours
- Opening Hours
- Monday 09:00-11:30 · Tuesday 09:00-11:30 · Wednesday 09:00-11:30 · Thursday 09:00-11:30 · Friday Closed · Saturday 09:00-11:30 · Sunday Closed · The general information page states that as a rule the Holy Monastery is closed on Fridays, on Sundays and during the important feastdays of the Greek Orthodox Church, with 9:00 in the morning to 11:30 before noon on all other days, and that it keeps its historic way of working rather than being an organised tourist site.
- Address
- Egypt Sinai Peninsula St. Catherine's Monastery
- Coordinates
- 28.5560, 33.9710
Introduction
St. Catherine's Monastery is an ancient, famous Christian (Orthodox) monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai. One of the oldest continuously used Christian monasteries in the world, rich in history and faith, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—a sacred, precious place on the Sinai Peninsula. Built in the 6th century at the foot of holy Mount Sinai (near where Moses is said to have seen the Burning Bush), it has lasted about 1,500 years and is among the oldest existing, still-operating Christian monasteries—of the highest religious and historical status. It is precious not only for its age but for its rich religious heritage: a relic believed to be the "Burning Bush" (where God appeared to Moses), a great collection of precious ancient icon paintings (Byzantine-style, among the world's most important and oldest), and a famous library of ancient manuscripts (said second only to the Vatican). Miraculously preserved through history, it long coexisted peacefully with surrounding Islam (it even has a mosque inside)—unique in meaning. Visitors may (when open) see the accessible parts. Visiting it is a unique experience of history and faith (dress modestly, respect the faith).
✨ Highlights
🛈 Practical Info
Opening Hours
| Monday | 09:00-11:30 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 09:00-11:30 |
| Wednesday | 09:00-11:30 |
| Thursday | 09:00-11:30 |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 09:00-11:30 |
| Sunday | Closed |
The general information page states that as a rule the Holy Monastery is closed on Fridays, on Sundays and during the important feastdays of the Greek Orthodox Church, with 9:00 in the morning to 11:30 before noon on all other days, and that it keeps its historic way of working rather than being an organised tourist site.
💡 Tips
FAQ
What are the opening hours of Monastery of St. Catherine?
Monday: 09:00-11:30; Tuesday: 09:00-11:30; Wednesday: 09:00-11:30; Thursday: 09:00-11:30; Friday: Closed; Saturday: 09:00-11:30; Sunday: Closed; The general information page states that as a rule the Holy Monastery is closed on Fridays, on Sundays and during the important feastdays of the Greek Orthodox Church, with 9:00 in the morning to 11:30 before noon on all other days, and that it keeps its historic way of working rather than being an organised tourist site.
Any practical tips for visiting Monastery of St. Catherine?
One of the world's oldest still-operating Christian monasteries—a World Heritage Site. Don't miss the Burning Bush relic and the precious ancient icons.
How long should I spend at Monastery of St. Catherine?
A typical visit takes 1–1.5 hours.
