Monastery of St. Simeon in Aswan | Explore the Ancient Desert Fortress of Egypt

Monastery of St Simeon: A Desert Fortress

Originally dedicated to the local saint Anba Hydra who renounced the world on his wedding day, this 7th century fortress-like monastery was rebuilt in the 10th century and rebuilt for monastery of St Simeon. From here monks went to Nubia to convert the Nubians to Christianity. To reach the monastery take a private boat across the Nile and then walk along the mostly paved desert road or hire a camel to take you up. Egypt tours to St Simeon’s Monastery offer you the opportunity to explore this unique historical landmark. 

Built on two levels surrounded by the desert the lower level of stone and the upper level of mudbrick surrounded by 10m-high walls the monastery may have eventually housed 1,000 monks. However it was partially destroyed by Saladin’s forces in 1173. The basilica inside the monastery contains frescoes and the monks’ rooms contain inadequate mastaba (seating). The last room on the right has drawings of Muslim pilgrims who would have set out here on their way to Mecca. Egypt tour packages take you on a complete tour to enjoy the surroundings.

You can also take a ferry to the Mushrif Tombs by camel or donkey from there and don’t forget to bring water. Egypt safari tours offer you the opportunity to enjoy a unique experience in the Egyptian desert including a visit to the Monastery of Saints Simeon and exploring the ancient tombs.

Egypt travel packages include visits to the Monastery of Saints Simeon, giving you the opportunity to experience this wonderful piece of history in a comfortable and easy way. Egypt private tours organize your trip according to your desires including private visits to the Monastery of Saint Simeon and other places of historical and religious importance.

Egypt holiday packages include programs to visit the monastery and other places in Aswan, providing you with an unforgettable travel experience full of history and culture.

1. What is the Monastery of St. Simeon known for?
The Monastery of St. Simeon is known for its fortress-like structure in the Aswan desert and its historical significance as a 10th-century Christian monastery where monks once traveled to Nubia to spread Christianity.

2. How can I visit the Monastery of St. Simeon?
You can reach the Monastery of St. Simeon by taking a private boat across the Nile from Aswan and then walking or riding a camel through the desert road that leads to the site. Many Egypt tours include visits to this monastery.

3. What is inside the Monastery of St. Simeon?
Inside the monastery, visitors can explore a basilica with ancient frescoes, monks’ living quarters, and walls covered with historic drawings, including those left by Muslim pilgrims who once passed through on their way to Mecca.

4. When was the Monastery of St. Simeon built?
The monastery was originally founded in the 7th century and rebuilt in the 10th century. It was partially destroyed by Saladin’s forces in 1173 but remains one of Egypt’s most remarkable early Christian sites.

5. Can I include the Monastery of St. Simeon in my Egypt travel package?
Yes, Egypt travel packages, Egypt private tours, and Egypt safari tours often include visits to the Monastery of St. Simeon along with other famous attractions in Aswan, making it an easy and enriching stop on your journey.

6. What should I bring when visiting the Monastery of St. Simeon?
It’s best to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as the area is located in the desert and requires a short hike or camel ride to reach.