Simon The Tanner Church

In the heart of Old Cairo, beneath the cliffs of the Mokattam Hills, lies one of Egypt’s most spiritually powerful and awe-inspiring places — the Church of Saint Simon the Tanner. This sacred site, carved into the mountainside, tells the incredible story of faith that literally moved a mountain. For many travelers exploring Cairo attractions, the story of Simon the Tanner (known in Arabic as Samaan Al-Kharraz) is both a spiritual revelation and a glimpse into Egypt’s enduring Coptic Christian heritage.

This is not just another church in Egypt — it is a living monument to faith, perseverance, and divine intervention. For tourists visiting Egypt attractions, a visit to the Monastery of Saint Simon the Tanner offers an unforgettable combination of history, spirituality, and art that transcends centuries.

The Story Behind Saint Simon the Tanner

Saint Simon lived during the 10th century AD, a time when Egypt was ruled by the Fatimid Caliph Al-Muizz li-Din Allah. Simon was a humble tanner by profession — a man who repaired and made leather goods, earning his living through simple, honest work. Despite his modest occupation, his faith was extraordinary.

During this period, the Coptic Christian community faced many challenges. The story goes that Caliph Al-Muizz, intrigued by a verse in the Bible stating that “faith can move mountains,” challenged the Coptic Pope Abraham (also known as Saint Abraam) to prove this statement. The Caliph demanded that the Christians move Cairo’s Mokattam Mountain, threatening persecution if they failed.

The Pope prayed fervently for guidance, and in a vision, the Virgin Mary appeared to him, instructing him to seek out a man named Simon, a tanner known for his deep faith and humility. Simon told the Pope that all the Christians should fast and pray for three days. On the third day, the Pope, Simon, and the faithful gathered before the mountain, holding the Holy Cross aloft. As they prayed, the mountain began to tremble — and then, miraculously, it lifted and moved. The Caliph, witnessing this divine act, was astonished and acknowledged the power of their faith.

The Legacy of the Miracle

The story of the Miracle of Moving the Mountain has been passed down through generations as one of the most remarkable events in Coptic history. For believers, it stands as a symbol of unwavering faith, humility, and divine power.

Today, the Monastery of Saint Simon the Tanner, built within the caves of the Mokattam Hills, stands as a tribute to this miracle. It serves both as a functioning place of worship and as a pilgrimage destination for Christians and visitors of all backgrounds.

The church is part of a larger complex of seven churches carved into the rock, known collectively as the Cave Churches of Mokattam. The largest of these, the Monastery of Saint Simon the Tanner, can hold more than 10,000 worshippers — making it the biggest church in the Middle East.

The Architecture and Setting

The moment you enter the Cave Church of Saint Simon the Tanner, you are struck by its grandeur and serenity. The walls and ceilings of the mountain are intricately carved with biblical scenes, figures of saints, and verses from Scripture. The atmosphere is unlike any other — the fusion of natural rock and sacred art creates an environment that feels both ancient and alive.

The open-air amphitheater-style church has been ingeniously designed to make use of the natural rock formations. The altar is carved into the cliffside, surrounded by seating areas that ascend like a theater. Above, sunlight filters through openings in the rock, illuminating the stone carvings and creating a divine glow during morning services.

Many of the carvings and modern artistic additions are the work of a Polish artist named Mario, who began sculpting the mountain’s walls in the 1970s. His work tells stories from the Bible, from the miracle of Saint Simon to the resurrection of Christ. Each carving is a masterpiece that brings faith and art together in breathtaking harmony.

Exploring the Mokattam Cave Churches Complex

While Saint Simon’s Church is the most famous, the Mokattam complex includes several smaller churches, each with its own unique story and design. Some of these include:

Saint Mark’s Church, one of the earliest built in the area.
The Church of the Virgin Mary and Saint Simon, beautifully decorated with frescoes.
Saint Bola Church, located higher up in the cliffs, known for its quieter atmosphere.

Visitors can explore these churches while learning about the Coptic community that built and maintains them. The surrounding area, known as Garbage City (Manshiyat Naser), is home to the Zabbaleen — Cairo’s traditional garbage collectors, many of whom are Coptic Christians. Despite the name, this community plays a crucial environmental role in recycling and maintaining Cairo’s cleanliness. Visiting the church gives travelers a chance to understand their culture, resilience, and faith.

Who Was Simon the Tanner?

Very little is historically documented about Simon’s life beyond the miracle story, but Coptic tradition preserves his memory as a man of great faith and humility. He lived simply, devoted to prayer, and dedicated to serving others. According to legend, after the miracle of Mokattam, Simon disappeared, preferring solitude and humility to fame. His remains were never found, but his spiritual legacy continues to shine through the church that bears his name.

For Coptic Christians, Simon the Tanner is a symbol of how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things through faith. His story continues to inspire millions, not only in Egypt but across the world.

Spiritual Experience and Modern Pilgrimage

Today, the Monastery of Saint Simon the Tanner is one of the most visited Christian sites in Egypt. Pilgrims and tourists alike are drawn to this remarkable sanctuary, where faith and history intertwine. Every year, thousands gather for masses, festivals, and prayer services, especially during the Coptic celebrations of Saint Simon’s feast day in November.

Visitors describe the atmosphere as both peaceful and powerful. Even for those who are not Christian, the site’s beauty and historical depth leave a lasting impression. The sounds of hymns echoing through the rock chambers and the sight of worshippers lighting candles beneath the carved faces of saints create an unforgettable sensory experience.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Church of Saint Simon the Tanner is more than a religious site — it is a living part of Cairo’s cultural identity. It stands as a symbol of coexistence and resilience, a reminder of Egypt’s rich tapestry of faiths and traditions. For centuries, Egypt has been home to one of the world’s oldest Christian communities, and sites like this testify to that enduring presence.

In a city filled with ancient pyramids, mosques, and monuments, this mountain church offers a different kind of wonder — one of spiritual depth rather than royal grandeur. It reflects how the Egyptian people, regardless of background, have always blended the sacred with the natural world.

Visiting Saint Simon the Tanner’s Monastery

Location

The monastery is located in the Mokattam Hills, near the area known as Manshiyat Naser, east of downtown Cairo. It is about a 30-minute drive from Tahrir Square, depending on traffic.

How to Get There

Visitors can reach the site by private car, taxi, or organized tour. Most travel agencies include the Cave Church in their Cairo day tours, often combining it with visits to Old Cairo, the Hanging Church, or the Citadel.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant. Morning visits are ideal to enjoy the soft sunlight illuminating the carvings.

Dress Code and Etiquette

As a functioning church, modest dress is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and visitors are expected to maintain quiet respect during services. Photography is generally allowed but always ask before taking pictures of people or inside certain areas.

What to See Inside

The Main Cave Church (Saint Simon’s Church) – The heart of the complex, with magnificent rock carvings and a vast open space for worship.
Biblical Rock Carvings – Sculptures depicting stories from the Bible, including the miracle of moving the mountain.
The Statue of Saint Simon – Located near the entrance, depicting him with one eye covered, symbolizing his humility.
Viewpoints Over Cairo – From the upper terraces, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city below.
The Amphitheater – The seating area, built into the rock, is used for large gatherings and festivals.

Nearby Attractions

For travelers exploring Cairo attractions, a visit to the Monastery of Saint Simon the Tanner pairs beautifully with other highlights nearby:

The Citadel of Saladin – A historic fortress with panoramic city views.
The Hanging Church – One of the oldest churches in Cairo, located in Coptic Cairo.
The Ben Ezra Synagogue – A beautiful symbol of Cairo’s religious diversity.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar – For a taste of Cairo’s bustling market life after your spiritual journey.

Travel Tips for Tourists

Bring comfortable shoes – The area involves some walking and uneven surfaces.
Hire a local guide – To fully understand the church’s history and the community that surrounds it.
Respect the local community – The residents of Manshiyat Naser are welcoming, but photography should be done respectfully.
Don’t miss the evening light – The golden light at sunset makes the carvings come alive.
Combine it with Old Cairo – For a full day of cultural and spiritual discovery.

The Faith That Moved a Mountain

The story of Saint Simon the Tanner is not just a tale from the past — it’s a timeless message about belief, humility, and perseverance. For travelers in search of meaning as well as beauty, this sacred site offers both.

Standing before the towering cliffs of Mokattam, one can almost feel the echo of prayers that once moved mountains. Whether you come for faith, history, or curiosity, the experience is deeply moving and unforgettable.

Conclusion: A Hidden Gem Among Egypt Attractions

In a land famous for its ancient pyramids and pharaonic temples, the Church of Saint Simon the Tanner stands apart as a place of living faith and divine history. It’s one of those rare Cairo attractions that blend spirituality, community, and art in one extraordinary setting.

For visitors exploring Egypt attractions, this is not just another stop on the itinerary — it’s a journey into the heart of faith that still resonates today.

Discover Saint Simon the Tanner’s Church — where faith truly moved a mountain. Plan your Cairo visit now and experience the miracle yourself.