1. St. Catherine’s Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site located at the foot of Mount Sinai in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. It is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world, with a history dating back over 1,500 years. The monastery is named after St. Catherine of Alexandria, who was martyred in the 4th century.
The monastery is a place of great significance for Christians, as it is believed to be the site where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. The Burning Bush, where Moses is said to have encountered God, is also located nearby.
The monastery complex includes the main church, known as the Church of the Transfiguration, which houses ancient icons, manuscripts, and relics. It also has a library that contains a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts in various languages, including Greek, Arabic, Syriac, and Georgian.
2. St. Catherine’s Monastery is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, except on Sundays and religious holidays. It is best to check the official website or contact the monastery for the most up-to-date information on opening hours.
The monastery can be contacted at +20 69 3470 856.
3. There is no specific information available about ticket prices for visiting St. Catherine’s Monastery. However, it is recommended to carry some cash in local currency (Egyptian pounds) for any entrance fees or donations required.
Transportation to St. Catherine’s Monastery can be arranged through local tour operators or by hiring a taxi from Sharm el Sheikh. The monastery is located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) northwest of Sharm el Sheikh and the journey takes around 2-3 hours by road. It is advisable to plan for a full-day trip to explore the monastery and its surroundings.
