Saint Catherine Area in Egypt

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Sinai Adventures - Places for a trekking adventure (Sinai Adventures Magazine)
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2002
Size of heritage: 60,100 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 33,975°
Latitude: 28,556°

Summary

The Orthodox Monastery of St Catherine stands at the foot of Mount Horeb where, the Old Testament records, Moses received the Tablets of the Law. The mountain is known and revered by Muslims as Jebel Musa. The entire area is sacred to three world religions: Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The Monastery, founded in the 6th century, is the oldest Christian monastery still in use for its initial function. Its walls and buildings of great significace to studies of Byzantine architecture and the Monastery houses outstanding collections of early Christian manuscripts and icons. The rugged mountainous landscape, containing numerous archaeological and religious sites and monuments, forms a perfect backdrop to the Monastery.

Location on Map

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Saint Catherine Area: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Egypt

The Saint Catherine Area, located in the Governorate of Janub Sina' (South Sinai), is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical, cultural, and religious significance. This area encompasses the renowned Saint Catherine's Monastery, Mount Sinai, and the surrounding natural landscape.

History

The history of the Saint Catherine Area dates back thousands of years. The most prominent landmark within this site is Saint Catherine's Monastery, which was built in the 6th century AD. The monastery was constructed at the foot of Mount Sinai, also known as Jebel Musa, where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments from God.

Saint Catherine's Monastery has served as a significant pilgrimage site for Christians since its establishment. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries in the world and has preserved a vast collection of religious and historical artifacts. The monastery's library houses a remarkable collection of ancient manuscripts, including the Codex Sinaiticus, one of the oldest surviving copies of the Bible.

The area surrounding the monastery is also steeped in history. Mount Sinai, rising to a height of 2,285 meters, has been a place of spiritual significance for various religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. It is believed to be the mountain where Moses communed with God and received divine revelation.

Current State

The Saint Catherine Area continues to attract visitors from around the world due to its rich historical and religious heritage. The area is well-preserved and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Saint Catherine's Monastery remains an active religious site, with a small community of Greek Orthodox monks residing within its walls. The monastery is open to visitors, who can explore its stunning architecture, ancient icons, and religious relics. The library, although not accessible to the public, is renowned for its invaluable collection of manuscripts.

Mount Sinai is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Many visitors embark on a challenging hike to the summit to witness the breathtaking sunrise or sunset, immersing themselves in the spiritual aura of the place. Along the way, they encounter landmarks such as the Chapel of the Holy Trinity and the Well of Moses.

The natural landscape surrounding the Saint Catherine Area is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and vast desert plains. This unique environment provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camel trekking, and stargazing.

Efforts are being made to preserve and protect the Saint Catherine Area. The Egyptian government, in collaboration with UNESCO, has implemented measures to ensure the sustainable management of the site. These include the establishment of visitor centers, the promotion of responsible tourism practices, and the conservation of the monastery's cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the Saint Catherine Area in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate is a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense historical, cultural, and religious significance. With its ancient monastery, sacred mountain, and stunning natural landscape, it continues to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human history and spirituality.