The Saint Shenouda Coptic Orthodox Church is located in the El Dahar area of Hurghada and belongs to the Coptic Orthodox community. The church was built on 1500 m2. It appears to be relatively modest from the outside. However, inside, the architecture is intricate and simply astounding, featured primarily on the stained-glass windows and the painted ceilings and interesting religious murals and paintings above the altar. Travellers can find a second church under the main cathedral to accommodate the overflow of worshipers attending on special holy days.
Location of Saint Shenouda Coptic Orthodox Church
Saint Shenouda Coptic Orthodox Church stands in El-Lewaa Salman Mazhar st., Qesm Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate.
Why should you visit Saint Shenouda Church in El Dahar?
A visit to Coptic Cathedral in Hurghada was an impressive experience. I loved the interiors, and the building is imposing from the outside: big windows, high ceilings and light colours. The church is filled with light but also very decorative and stunning. I loved the architecture of the building with all the details. What else can an architecture lover expect? Hurghada Coptic Church is lovely.
However, it would have probably been a better experience once again if I had taken a guided tour. If I had been on a guided tour, I would have gotten more information about the church.
Nevertheless, on the other hand, when I was alone, I had a chance to enjoy the atmosphere and beauty of the church. I did not have to rush or follow the group. I do not know which is better, with the guide or without.
If you decide to go alone without a guide, take a taxi or microbus to El Dahar Square. You see the church on your right side when you stand in front of the Gad restaurant. If you are interested in architecture, history and churches, go and visit this church, it is worth it.
I visited the Church on Tuesday afternoon. There were a few tourist groups simultaneously, but it was not too crowded. Visiting the Coptic Church of Hurghada is free of charge. Enjoy your visit!
The Coptic Christians in Egypt
Most Egyptians are Muslims; about 5-20 % of Egyptians are Coptic Christians. The number of Christians in Egypt is not accurate. Some statistics say it is 5% and some 20% of the population.
The Christian community in Egypt is the largest and oldest in the Middle East and North Africa. The majority of the Christians in Egypt are members of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria (The Egyptian Orthodox Church). The church leader is the Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. The church has about 20 million followers worldwide.
Religion is a significant thing for most Egyptians. People, especially Christians, bring out and emphasize their religion. Maybe because they belong to the minority in a dominant Islamic Egypt. most Coptic Christians carry a small Coptic cross tattooed on their wrist or hand between the thumb and forefinger to mark their faith.
There are usually religious pictures to mark and show their religion. Even the Coptic taxi drivers have crosses and crucifixes in the car to show their faith. Also, when you visit a shop that Coptic Christians own in Egypt, you notice it immediately.
How to Get to the Coptic Cathedral of Saint Shenouda, Hurghada?
Holidaymakers can visit the cathedral on their own. However, most people choose to go there as part of a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history here, with tour guides pointing out the building’s most exciting features. Unlike some other churches, you can take photographs at Saint Shenouda, but you must consider those there to worship.
Coptic Cathedral of Saint Shenouda stands in Hurghada. You can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away. With our custom trip planner, Hurghada attractions like the Coptic Cathedral of Saint Shenouda can be the centre stage of your vacation plans.
How to Dress in the Church? Dress code for the Church
Women need to cover themselves (hair, knees and shoulders) before getting inside the church.
Opening Hours
daily opens from 09:00 – 17:00
Entrance Fee
The entrance is free.
