The Coptic Cathedral
Abbassia's St. Mark Cathedral
Also known as St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in the Abbassia District in Cairo, Egypt, the Coptic Cathedral is one destination in Egypt that should not be missed. It was built and inaugurated during the time when Pope Cyril VI of Alexandria was the Pope of the Christian Coptic Orthodox Church.
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The History of the Coptic Cathedral
What used to be a vast Coptic cemetery is now the current seat of the Christian Coptic Orthodox Pope. The land where the Cathedral now gloriously reigns was given to the Coptic Church by Gawhar in 969. When plans to build the new Capital which is Cairo, land was taken from the Christian Coptic Church to build the Palace of Ma’ad al-Muizz-Li-Deenilla, the area in Abbassia was then given to the church in replacement of the earlier land.
During sometime in the 12th century, some 10 Coptic Churches are within this area, but was later on destroyed by those who are opposed to the Coptic Christian Faith, later on two churches were built in the area. Another problem arose in the more recent years, in 1943, as the governorate of Cairo attempted to take over the land for public use. This moved was then opposed by the General Congregation led by Mr. Habib Elmasry, its then secretary. The land was returned under the control of the Coptic Church under the agreement that a non-profit building will be constructed within the next 15 years, thus the Cathedral was planned.
To build the Coptic Cathedral, many famous engineers and architects contributed on developing the design. Since it included some of the most intricate planning and details, as it includes seven other churches including the Anba Rouis Church.
Right before the Cathedral was completed, the Roman Catholic Pontiff during that time returned part of St. Mark’s relics to taken out of Egypt in 828 AD. These relics were then taken into the newly built Coptic Cathedral and placed in specially made shrine.
The Coptic Cathedral Today
Today, the Coptic Cathedral is by far the largest Cathedral in the Middle East and Africa, visitors and tourist alike will be awed at the amazing architecture and design. You will still be able to see the amazing collection of St. Mark’s relics inside the Cathedral.
