The Saint Mark's Cathedral in Abbassia: A Jewel of the Coptic Orthodox Church and a Spiritual Beacon for Copts Worldwide
In the heart of Egypt’s capital, specifically in the historic district of Abbassia, stands the majestic Saint Mark’s Cathedral—a towering symbol of spirituality and heritage. With its walls echoing stories of faith and patriotism, the cathedral ranks as the second-largest in the Orthodox world, the oldest in Africa and the Middle East, and a cherished destination for Copts both at home and abroad.
Named after Saint Mark the Evangelist—one of the earliest disciples to spread Christianity to distant lands—the cathedral holds deep historical and spiritual significance. According to tradition, Saint Mark was born in Jerusalem, but his missionary journey led him to Egypt, where he settled in Alexandria. That city would later become the seat of the papacy and the cradle of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
The cathedral was not merely a religious project, but a national endeavor that embodied a unique spirit of unity. In a memorable historical moment, President Gamal Abdel Nasser personally laid the foundation stone on July 24, 1965, and donated a significant sum towards its construction. The ceremony was attended by Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia and Pope Cyril VI, then Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of Saint Mark.
The architectural design reflects the essence of Christian faith and the centrality of the cross. The structure itself takes the shape of a giant cross, conceived by architects Dr. Awad Kamel and Selim Kamel Fahmy, who won the national competition to design the cathedral. Structural execution was overseen by Dr. Michel Bakhoum, one of Egypt’s leading construction engineers, with implementation entrusted to the Nile General Company for Reinforced Concrete (SIBCO), resulting in one of the region’s most significant religious edifices.
The cathedral complex includes much more than its grand prayer hall. It houses several chapels and service areas, including two churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary beneath the cathedral, and additional churches named for the Virgin Mary and Saint Rewiss, the Virgin Mary and Saint Bishoy, Saint Anthony within the Papal Residence, and others honoring Saint Maurice, Saint Verena, Saint Paula, and Saint Samuel. It also features episcopal buildings dedicated to both ecclesiastical and social services. Its walls are rich with memories of celebrations, visits, and historical milestones.
Saint Mark’s Cathedral is far more than just a building—it is a living archive of the Coptic Orthodox Church's legacy and a testament to the deep bond between faith and nationhood. Every year, visitors from across the globe flock to this sacred site to marvel at its grandeur, honor the spirit of Saint Mark, and reaffirm their commitment to a timeless faith tradition.
Standing tall in the heart of Cairo, the Saint Mark’s Cathedral in Abbassia remains an enduring symbol of faith, history, and national unity—a spiritual landmark that transcends stone and high ceilings to touch the hearts of believers everywhere.
Source:
Egyptian State Information Service (SIS)
