This is the oldest church in Cairo, built in the 5th century. It is perhaps best known as the legendary resting place of the holy family — a site that they advertise quite heavily.

We couldn’t take pictures inside the church — no photos are allowed — but the interior is decorated with enormous marble columns (and one red granite one) which are painted with faint images of coptic saints. The ornate alter and screens are from teh 13th century.

There is a partially flooded crypt below, which is the only remaining part of the original church. It is in this crypt that the holy family hid — the spots where they sat are still visible an attract pilgrims from around Egypt.