Coptic Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Mark
الكاتدرائية المرقسية
Said to be the site of Africa's oldest church, founded by St Mark in the 1st century AD, and the traditional seat of the Coptic Pope.
St Mark's Cathedral is the mother church of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Alexandria. Tradition holds that St Mark, the author of the Gospel, founded Africa's first church here and was martyred here. The current building was reconstructed in the 1950s. The interior contains icon screens and the tombs of past patriarchs, and the atmosphere is quiet and solemn. Entry is free. Dress modestly, and show your passport at the security check. It is on Nabi Daniel Street in the city centre, and nearby are the Catholic Church of St Catherine and the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–18:00 (not suitable for visits during services)
Nearby sights
- Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue
- Cavafy Museum
- Alexandria Opera House (Sayed Darwish Theatre)
- Saad Zaghloul Square & Historic Cafés
- Roman Amphitheatre (Kom El Dikka)
- Unknown Soldier Memorial (Alexandria)
- Alexandria Corniche
- Graeco-Roman Museum