Inauguration of Abu-Seifein historic church

CAIRO – 25 July 2017: Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria inaugurated the opening of the historic church of the martyr Abu-Seifein in Old Cairo after 30 years of renovation, on Saturday, July 22.
The Pope inaugurated the altars, baptisms and icons. The opening was attended by legislative, security, executive and civil leaders; a representative from Amr Ibn Al-Aas mosque, Egypt’s oldest mosque, Bishop Dr. Mounir Hanna Anis, Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Egypt; representatives from different Christian denominations and top sisters from Abu-Seifein and Mar Girgis‬‏ monarchies, Old Cairo.

After the inauguration, Pope Tawadros II has promoted the two priests of the church to a higher rank during the Divine Liturgy.

“It is the most beautiful historic church in Egypt and may be even in the whole world in its decoration and icons. It also witnessed an important part in our history,” said the Pope.

The historic Abu-Seifein church located in Amr Ibn Al-Aas street, Misr El Kadima, is among other historic churches in the region inside the Abu-Seifein monarchy which was established in 8th century . Yet, it was one of the churches that were demolished in 10th century and were renovated after that for several times.

It was a cathedral and site of the seat of Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria from mid of the 11th century till the beginning of the 14th century.

Two hundred and fifty special coptic historic icons are found in the church; some of them date back to13th century and the majority go back to 17th and the 18th centuries.