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St Catherine’s Monastery or Monastery of Saint Katherine, is a renowned Christian monastery that lies on the foot of the majestic Mount Sinai. It is a recognised World Heritage Site, constructed around the 6th century CE. The monastery was founded by Justinian I and is known to be among the oldest Christian monasteries to exist in the world. It is said that the relics of Saint Catherine of Alexandria are stored in the monastery. People from all over the world visit this place as a pilgrimage site to receive the healing powers from Saint Catherine.
Quick Details About St Catherine’s Monastery
Built Around: 565 CE
Address: Saint Catherine Town, South Sinai Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 9 AM – 11:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: March to November
Time Duration: Around 3 hours
Nearest Airport: St. Catherine International Airport
Location
Photo: لا روسا / Wikimedia Commons / image For Representation Only
St Catherine’s Monastery is situated in Saint Catherine town and belongs to the South Sinai Governorate in Egypt. The monastery is located in a low vegetation area surrounded by mountains, due to which tourists have to hike a little to reach the place.
How To Reach St Catherine’s Monastery
Photo: JHenryW / Wikimedia Commons /Image For Representation Only
The following are a few ways through which you can reach the St Catherine’s Monastery with ease:
By Air: St. Catherine International Airport is almost 20 kilometres from the monastery. Other than this, Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport also lies in the nearby area.
By Road: You can hire a taxi from Nuweiba or Dahab to reach the St Catherine’s Monastery or you can opt for a tour bus from Sharm El-Sheikh city.
By Train: There is no railway station near the monastery from which you can reach Saint Catherine; taking a tour bus is a popular option from the nearby cities.
Places To Visit Around St Catherine’s Monastery
After you complete a tour of this historic monastery, here are five places near St Catherine’s Monastery that you can visit:
1. Abbas Mountain
Photo: Hesham Farouk Ragab / Wikimedia Commons
Abbas Mountain is situated more than two thousand metres above sea level. This mountain is a popular hiking destination among tourists and is known for its historical significance. From its peak, you can witness the mesmerising views of the surrounding region and the ruins of a palace. It is said that the mountain is named after an Egyptian ruler who was suffering from tuberculosis and came here for a retreat. The ruler ordered the construction of a palace here, but before completion, he passed away. Every year, many tourists visit the Sinai region and enjoy hiking and camping trips on the Abbas and nearby mountains.
Location: Near Stone of Musa, Egypt
Distance From Monastery: 5 kilometres
2. Jabal Mousa
Photo: Oxfordus167 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jabal Mousa is famously known by the locals as Mount Sinai, on the footsteps of which St Catherine’s monastery lies. It is situated at an elevation level of more than two thousand two hundred meters. Jabal Mousa holds religious importance for people across different religions. It is a well-known pilgrimage site and is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts. There is a legend that the Ten Commandments were received over here by Moses. The town of Saint Catherine lies near the mountain and thousands of tourists climb this majestic mountain each year. In various holy books, the mention of Jabal Mousa is there; it is said that its peak symbolises humility.
Location: Near Byzantine Dam, Egypt
Distance From Monastery: 10 kilometres
3. Nuweiba
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Nuweiba is known to be a coastal town that has many beautiful beaches and is surrounded by the Gulf of Aqaba. Here you will easily find accommodation options and transport to reach the nearby places. This town is famous for offering natural beauty and was acquired by people from ancient tribes such as the Bedouin and the Tarabin. The town has a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site renowned as Nuweiba Castle. It is an ideal destination if you are looking for a place to unwind. Here you can experience the tranquil environment while soaking up the sun and enjoying a few water-based activities.
Location: Near Wasit, Egypt
Distance From Monastery: Around 100 kilometres
4. Mount Catherine
Photo: Abdulrhman Salem / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mount Catherine is known to be the highest mountain peak in the country of the Pyramids. The mountain got its name from the fact that Saint Catherine of Alexandria was found on the top of the mountain by a monk, as it is said she was placed there by angels. It is located close to a town known by the name of Saint Catherine and on its peak, you will find a meteorological station. Mount Catherine lies two thousand six hundred metres above sea level and offers scenic views. On this mountain, archaeologists discovered a cave that showcases the traces of life from the 4th millennium BCE.
Location: Close to the foot of Mount Sinai, Egypt
Distance From Monastery: 12 kilometres
5. Dahab
Photo: Nowic / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dahab is a coastal town that is popular among tourists who are looking for a place filled with mesmerising views and tranquillity. The nearby town to Dahab is Sharm El-Sheikh, where there is an international airport too. Here you will find various water-based activities that you can experience, like windsurfing. The city consists of buses and taxis which usually people opt for visiting the nearby places like St Catherine’s Monastery. It contains tribal villages, tourist spots, and the Laguna area. Here, you will find numerous resorts and hotels where you can stay comfortably and enjoy your leisure time.
Location: South Sinai Governorate, Egypt
Distance From Monastery: Almost 120 kilometres
Where To Stay
Photo: Haider Syed / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Some of the places where you can stay comfortably are Morgenland Hotel, Bedouin Guest House, and the Pyramids Gardens Guest House. You can also stay at the guesthouse made inside the St Catherine’s Monastery if the rooms stay vacant. As every year many tourists visit this pilgrimage site, it is advisable to ensure that your stay is already booked.
Where To Eat
Photo: Basma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are not many places to explore when it comes to eateries present around the St Catherine’s Monastery. However, there are still a few options that you can explore nearby, such as the Bamboo House Restaurant. You can also take part in camping at some camps, like The Bedouin Camp, which opens its restaurant for people looking to explore authentic Bedouin and Egyptian cuisines, which are a must-try.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Esben Stenfeldt / Wikimedia Commons
Tips To Consider
- Wear comfortable shoes, which will be appropriate for hiking, as the land nearby is full of uneven paths.
- Keep a reusable water bottle with you, preferably one that is not made up of plastic.
- Respect the devotees from various religions visiting the area and exploring the surroundings.
St Catherine’s Monastery is one of the world’s oldest working monasteries and a World Heritage Site recognised by UNESCO. Built-in the 6th century at the foot of Mount Sinai, it houses ancient manuscripts, religious icons, and the famed Burning Bush. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, it’s a symbol of faith, history, and culture. Plan your trip with TripXL for a spiritual experience at this sacred and historic landmark.
Cover Photo: Berthold Werner / Wikimedia Commons
