Saint Catherine's Monastery
دير سانت كاترين
A World Heritage Site built under Justinian in the 6th century and still in use, one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world, home to the 'Burning Bush'.
The monastery was built between 548 and 565 on the northern foot of Mount Sinai. Greek Orthodox monks still live there. In 2002 it was inscribed as part of the St. Catherine Area World Heritage Site. Visitors can see the Byzantine basilica, the 'Burning Bush' where Moses is said to have seen God, the Well of Moses, and a museum with ancient icons and manuscripts. Opening hours are short (usually about 09:00 to 11:30), so the visit is often combined with the sunrise trip up Mount Sinai. Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–11:30; closed Fridays, Sundays, and religious holidays
Nearby sights
- Mount Sinai
- Nabq Protected Area
- SOHO Square
- Sharks Bay
- Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh
- Straits of Tiran Reefs
- Heavenly Cathedral
- SS Thistlegorm Wreck