On a desert hill on Aswan’s west bank, its mud-brick walls the same colour as the sand, stands one of the largest and best-preserved Coptic monasteries in Egypt. The Monastery of St. Simeon — originally known as the Monastery of Anba Hatre — is far quieter than Aswan’s famous temples, which is exactly its charm. This guide covers its history, what you see inside and how to visit.
St. Simeon Monastery Tour at a Glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Start | 09:00 — pick-up from your hotel or Nile cruise in Aswan |
| Duration | About 6 hours |
| Runs | Daily |
| Included | English-speaking Egyptologist guide, entrance fees, air-conditioned transfers, bottled water, taxes |
| Not included | Tips and personal spending |
| Price | From $50 per person (6 people) to $75 for one person, private tour |
Book the private St. Simeon Monastery tour.
A Short History
The monastery was founded in the early Christian centuries, at a time when monks were settling across the Egyptian desert, and was dedicated to Anba Hatre, a local saint and bishop of Aswan. Its main church dates from around the 10th–11th century and is one of the oldest of its type in Egypt. At its peak the monastery could house hundreds of monks and pilgrims behind walls built to protect them from desert raids.
It was abandoned in the Middle Ages and never rebuilt, which is why it survives so completely: you walk through a medieval monastery largely as its last monks left it.
What You See
- The fortified walls — high walls of stone below and mud brick above, enclosing the whole complex.
- The basilica — the main church, with traces of painted saints and a faded image of Christ in the apse.
- Monks’ cells — rows of small rooms with stone benches that served as beds.
- Working rooms — the refectory, kitchens, bakery ovens and an olive or grape press show how self-sufficient the community was.
- The views — from the upper level you look across the desert to the Nile, Elephantine Island and the city of Aswan.
Where It Is
The monastery stands on the west bank of the Nile, opposite the southern tip of Elephantine Island. Across the dunes you can see the domed Mausoleum of the Aga Khan on its hill above the river. Your guide arranges the crossing and the final approach as part of the tour.
Combine It With
- A felucca sail around Elephantine Island and the Botanical Gardens.
- The afternoon Nubian village tour, which starts at 16:00.
- The High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk and Philae tour on another morning.
Tips
- Wear closed shoes — the path and the monastery floors are sandy and uneven.
- Bring a hat and water; there is little shade on the hill.
- Dress modestly, as at any religious site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. Simeon Monastery worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy history away from the crowds. It is one of the largest Coptic monasteries in Egypt and one of the best preserved, with its walls, church and cells still standing.
How long does the tour take?
About 6 hours with pick-up at 09:00, including the crossing, a guided visit and time to enjoy the views.
Who was St. Simeon?
The monastery was originally dedicated to Anba Hatre, a local saint of Aswan; the name of St. Simeon became attached to it later and is the one used today.
What else can I see in Aswan?
See our Aswan tours guide for Philae, Abu Simbel, the Nubian village and more.
