Witness the holy Hanging Church!!
join Royal Black to discover the Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church, also known as the Church of Mother of God Saint Mary in Egyptian Babylon or the Hanging Church, is one of Egypt’s oldest churches, symbolizing centuries of religious and cultural heritage in the region.
why is it called the Hanging Church?
he Hanging Church derives its name from its unique position atop a gatehouse of Babylon Fortress, situated in the historic district of Coptic Cairo, also known as Old Cairo. Its central nave is ingeniously suspended over a passageway, creating a striking architectural marvel. Accessible via twenty-nine steps, early travelers affectionately dubbed it “the Staircase Church” due to its distinctive entrance.
Over time, the land elevation has risen by approximately six meters since the Roman era, resulting in much of the original Roman tower being buried underground. Consequently, the church’s elevated vantage point is somewhat obscured from view.
Approaching from the street, visitors pass through ornate iron gates beneath a pointed stone archway. Beyond lies a narrow courtyard adorned with contemporary artwork depicting biblical motifs, leading the eye to the nineteenth-century facade flanked by twin bell towers. Ascending the steps and entering through the gates reveals another courtyard, this time featuring an eleventh-century outer porch, offering a glimpse into the church’s rich historical tapestry.
About its rich historical heritage
Believed to have been constructed during the patriarchate of Isaac (690–692), the origins of the Hanging Church trace back to antiquity, possibly to the 3rd or 4th century, though concrete evidence is scarce. Historical records first mention the church in the biography of Patriarch Joseph I (831–849), documenting a visit by the governor of Egypt. Subsequently, Pope Abraham (975–978) oversaw significant renovations, with subsequent restoration efforts, including a comprehensive overhaul completed in 2011, aimed at preserving its historical significance.
Situated atop remnants of the ancient Babylon Fortress, the Hanging Church’s location reflects the fortress’s evolution over millennia. The fortress’s origins remain a subject of debate among Coptic historians, with some tracing it back to the nineteenth century B.C., while others attribute its construction to Nebuchadnezzar in the late sixth century B.C. Regardless, the church stands on the fortress’s old south Bastions, lending it the distinctive ‘hanging’ aspect. Beneath the church lies the ancient atrium entrance, featuring niched walls and remnants of statuary, complemented by later architectural additions such as superimposed columns and brick arches.
Among Cairo’s earliest churches, the Hanging Church’s architectural lineage is obscured by centuries of restoration and renovation. Carved reliefs resembling those found in early Syrian churches hint at its ancient origins, possibly dating to the third or fourth century. Notably, a carved beam above the entrance bears a date corresponding to 284 AD, marking the beginning of the Coptic era.
Over the centuries, the church weathered conflicts and transformations, enduring partial destruction in 840 AD during clashes between Governor Ali ibn Yahia and Patriarch Anba Yusab. Temporarily converted into a mosque, it was later reconsecrated in the tenth century. By the eleventh century, it served as the seat of the Coptic patriarchate.
Under Pope Abraham’s stewardship, the church underwent significant restoration, a tradition upheld by subsequent rulers and religious leaders. However, it faced challenges such as the collapse of its chapel ceiling in 1983 and damage from the 1992 Cairo earthquake, necessitating extensive repairs and renovations completed in 2011, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
where does its religious significance come from?
The Hanging Church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, houses sanctuaries honoring her, as well as Saints John the Baptist and George. It served as a pivotal venue for various ceremonies integral to the Coptic hierarchy of Cairo. Notably, it hosted the selection and interment of patriarchs, spanning from the 11th to the 14th centuries, and consecrated holy oil. Furthermore, it was the site for heresy trials and the determination of Easter’s date each year. These significant rituals were relocated to the Hanging Church in the 11th century following the transfer of the patriarchal seat from Alexandria to Cairo.
what about its contents?
Within the hallowed walls of the Hanging Church lies a treasure trove of 115 distinct icons, each a radiant jewel illuminating the sacred space. Among them, one shines with particular brilliance: the famed “Coptic Mona Lisa,” a masterpiece crafted in the 18th century, capturing the divine presence of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and John the Baptist in exquisite detail.
As you explore further, you’ll encounter another captivating collection of fifteen icons, each a visual narrative tracing the path of Jesus’ life, from his humble birth to his ultimate sacrifice. These icons serve as windows into the profound teachings and eternal truths of Christianity.
Delve deeper into the spiritual riches of the church, and you’ll discover seven icons dedicated to the life and teachings of John the Baptist, whose unwavering faith and steadfast devotion continue to inspire believers to this day.
But amidst this sacred ensemble, one icon commands special reverence: the depiction of St. Mark, positioned in the southern sanctuary, honoring the esteemed legacy of the first Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church. With every brushstroke and intricate detail, these icons beckon worshippers to contemplate the timeless mysteries of faith and embrace the eternal light of divine grace.
what makes it especially iconic?
The Wooden Screen housed within the walls of the Hanging Church stands as a testament to its unparalleled grandeur and distinctive charm. Adorned with a lavish blend of rich ebony and exquisite ivory, intricately arranged in geometric patterns, this magnificent piece of artistry exudes an aura of timeless elegance.
Embellished with a myriad of icons, the Wooden Screen captivates the soul with its divine imagery. At its very center, the regal figure of Jesus Christ, adorned with a crown, commands reverence, flanked by the gentle presence of the Virgin Mary on the left, accompanied by Saint Peter and the celestial messenger, Archangel Gabriel. On the opposite side, the gaze is met by the resplendent figures of Archangel Michael, the revered John the Baptist, and the illustrious Saint Paul.