西奈山圣凯瑟琳修道院

St. Catherine’s Monastery is located at the foot of Mount Sinai in the heart of the Sinai Peninsula, about a two-hour drive from Sharm el-Sheikh. Surrounded by barren mountains and desert, the sudden sight of this fortress-like monastery makes a striking impression. In 2002, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

历史

Founded in the 4th century on the site of the biblical Burning Bush, the monastery is one of the oldest continuously operating Christian monasteries in the world. It was here, according to tradition, that God revealed Himself to Moses in the flames of the bush and where the Ten Commandments were later received.

In the 6th century, the Byzantine emperor Justinian I ordered the construction of stone walls, turning the monastery into a fortress. In 625, the Prophet Muhammad granted the monks a written guarantee of protection, ensuring the monastery’s safety under both Arab and Ottoman rule. As a result, the monastery has never been destroyed or looted throughout its long history.

In the 11th century, it was named after St. Catherine of Alexandria, whose relics had been kept there since the 8th century.

Visiting the Monastery

The monastery attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year—both pilgrims and tourists. The easiest access is from Sharm el-Sheikh by bus or private car (2–3 hours).

主要亮点包括：

• The Burning Bush – believed to be the biblical bush that spoke to Moses.
• Relics of St. Catherine – venerated by Christian pilgrims.
• Museum of Icons and Manuscripts – one of the world’s most important collections, second only to the Vatican.

Visitor tips:

• Only certain areas are open to tourists.
• Modest dress is required: no shorts, women should cover their heads.
• The monastery opens to tourists at 8:00 am (after the morning service) and closes at noon.
• Souvenirs are best purchased in the official shop inside the monastery.
• Food is available near the entrance, but prices are high—bringing a packed lunch is recommended.

Pilgrims who venerate the relics traditionally receive a small ring as a keepsake.

Climbing Mount Sinai

Excursions often combine a monastery visit with a night climb to the summit of Mount Sinai (about 6 km of steps). The ascent is demanding and not suitable for children, elderly visitors, or those with health issues. Warm clothing is essential, as it can be very cold at night even in summer.

The reward is breathtaking: witnessing the sunrise from the peak before returning to the monastery.

Excursion Prices

Tours from Sharm el-Sheikh typically cost from $30 per person, depending on the package (with or without mountain climb, with or without lunch, or combined with other stops such as Dahab on the Red Sea). Most trips last a full day.