The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, Cairo

The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus also called the Abu Serga is the oldest Coptic place of worship in Cairo. It is dedicated to two soldier saints from Syria. They were martyred during the reign of the Roman Emperor Maximilian.

The location of The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus is where the Holy family is said to have rested while fleeing from the oppressive rule of King Herod to Egypt. It is said that they lived here while Joseph worked in the nearby fortress. The church dates back to the fifth century and the present building dates back to the 8th century. On the first of June a special mass is held annually to commemorate the arrival of the Holy Family.

The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus or Abu Serga is in the shape of a basilica. There is a narthex, a nave and two aisles. The central sanctuary has a 13th century wooden screen with ebony panels inlaid with ivory. The frieze and icons in the church date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. It has a 10 meter deep crypt that is often flooded when the levels of the River Nile rise. The church has an active congregation and is the second most important Coptic Church in the city next to the Hanging Church.