1. Sacred Destinations
  2. Egypt
  3. Cairo
  4. St. Mercurius Church

St. Mercurius Church, Cairo

Icon of St. Mercurius in his church in Cairo. Photo © Holly Hayes. View all images in our St. Mercurius Church Photo Gallery.

St. Mercurius Church (also known as Abu Seifien) in Cairo, dedicated to the Coptic "saint of the two swords," was built in the 6th century and underwent intensive restoration during the 12th century. It is in the heart of Coptic Cairo but off the beaten tourist track, allowing for more atmosphere and quiet than can often be had in the Hanging Church.

According to legend, Mercurius was given a sword by an angel in order to fight against the barbarians in the 3rd century. He was martyred, but he later appeared to Emperor Julian the Apostate during a battle against the Persians and pierced him with a sword. Mercurius is always represented in Coptic art as a horseman holding two swords.

The Church of St. Mercurius consists of two churches one on top of the other, with many little side chapels dedicated to various saints. The pulpit is one of the most beautiful in Cairo, decorated with mosaic and supported by 15 marble columns. A door in the north aisle of the main church leads into a courtyard with a baptistery and three sanctuaries. Fine frescoes were recently discovered in the southern gallery of the upper church, and are being restored.


Quick Facts on St. Mercurius Church

Site Information
Names:Abou Seifain; Abu Seifien; St. Mercurius Church; St. Mercurius Church, Cairo
City:Cairo
Country:Egypt
cat:Churches
faith:Christianity; Coptic
Status:active
Visitor and Contact Information
Location:Cairo, Egypt
Coordinates:30.019825° N, 31.232591° E  (view on Google Maps)
Lodging:View hotels near this location
Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

Map of St. Mercurius Church

Below is a location map and aerial view of St. Mercurius Church. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.

References

  1. The Church of Saint Mercurius - Tour Egypt
  2. Abu Seifien (St. Mercurius) Church - wcities.com

More Information

Article Info

Title:St. Mercurius Church, Cairo
Author:Holly Hayes
Last updated:07/06/2009
Permalink:www.sacred-destinations.com/egypt/cairo-st-mercurius-church
Link code:<a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/egypt/cairo-st-mercurius-church">St. Mercurius Church, Cairo</a>