Saint Simon Cave Church and Monastery
The Tanner Saint Simon Monastery is the full name of the Cave Church of Saint Simon. It was named after the Coptic Orthodox saint Simon, who lived in the tenth century. Al Muizz, the Islamic Fatimid Caliph, is associated with the story of the Mokattam hills and the Cave Church of Saint Simon.
Moving the mountain and the coffin of Saint Simeon
Rumor has it that Al Muizz put Coptic Pope Abraham of Alexandria to the test by ordering him to relocate Mokattam Mountain. While the pope was fasting for 3 days, the Virgin Mary told him in a vision about Simon the Tanner, a man who could move mountains. Two of Simon’s menial tasks were mending shoes and bringing water to the needy.
Somehow, Simon managed to displace the mountain from the Ramses region. Following this, Saint Simon slipped into a cave on the hill; a monastery was subsequently built there.
The geographical coordinates of the Cave Church of Saint Simon
East of Cairo, amid the Mokattam highlands, stands the Cave Church. The Zabbaleen is the name of the inhabitants of this region. People come from all over the globe to see the church because, despite its modest setting, it is a symbol of faith and optimism.
Zabbaleen City, sometimes called “The City of Garbage,” is home to the Cave Church, which sits above Mokattam Mountain. Specifically, most of Cairo’s trash collectors and recyclers call this neighborhood on the Nile River’s eastern bank home. In addition, this complex has six churches cut out of the solid granite of the mountain. Among them, St. Simon the Tanner’s Hall, St. Paul’s Church, St. Mark’s Church, and the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner are all part of this.
Moreover, it is a unique place, incomparable to any other location, with extraordinary craftsmanship in its churches. Consequently, the Cave Church is in one of the most complex and dynamic neighborhoods of the Zabbaleen settlement area and offers the perfect blend of cultural and spiritual events.
The Cave Church’s Past and Present
In 1975, Father Samaan Ibrahim established the Cave Church. It is a house of worship for the local Zabbaleen population, carved out of a big cave in the Mokattam hills. The Monastery of Saint Simon the Tanner was established during the lifetime of the Holy Family.
During the reign of Al Muizz, the Fatimid Caliph, in the 10th century AD, builders constructed the cathedral to memorialize Saint Simon. The Zabbaleen people, who today call Garbage City home, descended from farmers who fled poverty and municipal authorities in Upper Egypt in the 1940s and settled in Cairo. Although they moved to the city, they never lost touch with their country roots, which included keeping poultry, ducks, and goats as pets.
City dwellers began scavenging for valuables, and the organic debris they gathered fed their livestock. This peaceful arrangement made it possible for a large number of immigrants to settle in the area. As a place of worship in the middle of the Zabbaleen people’s harsh surroundings, the Cave Church is a monument to their perseverance and faith.
Church Carvings in a Cave
The intricate carvings and sculptures found in the Cave Church depict several biblical scenes. These creations etched into the granite walls showcase the artists’ extraordinary talent and perseverance. The intricate carvings bring an air of deep spirituality to the sacred space of the cathedral. With its many beautiful sculptures of the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene, the church is a true work of art.
Among the miraculous tales preserved in the rock carvings of the Cave Church are those of Jesus’ birth and the resurrection of Lazarus, two of his closest disciples. Visitors can form a profound emotional connection to the biblical stories through these intricate carvings. Intricately etched over the church walls are numerous biblical verses, providing visitors with additional layers of spiritual thought.
The tales of Zuleikha and Joseph as well as the incident involving the wife of Potiphar, are shown in the carvings. Along with depictions of Samson’s resilience and triumph over adversity, the walls of the chapel contain the legendary account of his life. In addition to adding to the church’s aesthetic value, the intricate carvings attest to the community’s unwavering commitment to the sacred space’s construction and upkeep.
Church Gallery at the Cave
The gallery has murals and frescoes painted over walls and ceilings. As viewers begin to scrutinize these artworks, they enjoy a real feast for the eyes. These artworks depict stories from the lives of saints and biblical narratives. There is a wealth of artistic history within the Coptic culture, and this gallery showcases it.
In addition to its spiritual significance, the Cave Church is well-known as a tourist attraction. Its unique buildings, extensive history, and peaceful atmosphere draw sightseers from every corner of the world. The church is a popular stop for tourists because of its central location in Cairo’s historic district and its relative ease of access.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit to The Cave Church of Saint Simon?
Take into account these suggestions to completely grasp the significance and beauty of The Cave Church:
- The church is a sacred place; thus, it is important to dress appropriately.
- Learn about the church’s past and the narrative of Saint Simon to enrich your experience by researching its history.
- A well-informed guide can enhance your experience by offering insightful commentary and background information.
- Be considerate of the Zabaleen people and their role in protecting the church as you honor the local community.
- Consider donating to support the constant maintenance and restoration taking place.
- Take a moment to stand in awe of this peaceful and spiritual space-the chapel is truly an amazing place.
Finally, for those interested in details concerning the rich spiritual history of Coptic Egypt, the Cave Church can be nothing less than a treasure trove.
In short, the cave church of Saint Simon stands as a miracle of historical importance and a haven of spirituality. No tourist interested in Egypt’s rich cultural heritage should miss it. Whether you are a devout Christian, a history enthusiast, or simply searching for a tranquil and, the Cave Church is sure to make your visit unforgettable.
