The Monastery of Saint Anthony

The Monastery of Saint Anthony, located in Egypt’s Eastern Desert, is one of the world's oldest Christian monasteries, founded in the 4th century. It is dedicated to Saint Anthony the Great, considered the father of Christian monasticism. The monastery served as a religious community and spiritual retreat, with monks practicing prayer, meditation, and asceticism. Architecturally, it features churches, caves, and living quarters carved into rock. Over centuries, it has been a vital center for Coptic Christianity, preserving ancient religious traditions and artifacts. Today, it remains an active monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors interested in religious history.