Located in eastern Cairo, specifically in the Mokattam Mountain, the Cave Church is considered one of the prominent landmarks in the area, comprising a group of Orthodox churches carved into the rock.
The construction of this site dates back to the 20th century, starting as an idea and evolving into a notable location visited by many.
This site serves as a center for gatherings, reflecting the history and activities of the local community, and forms part of the area’s cultural fabric.
In this article, we will shed light on the story of this site, its history, and the legends associated with it, while focusing on objective and cultural aspects, and providing a comprehensive view of its significance.
What is the Story of the Cave Church?
The church was established with the help of a person named Simon Ibrahim, who undertook an ambitious project to carve out a large cave inside the Mokattam Mountain. This endeavor was challenging, requiring careful planning and strenuous effort to create a usable space.
The walls were subsequently decorated with drawings and inscriptions that provide visual information about local stories, traditions, and beliefs.
The establishment of the Cave Church had a significant impact on the surrounding community, which was then facing difficult conditions as a designated waste collection area.
The residents lived in modest dwellings made of various scrap materials and tin.
As the church project progressed, the community united to improve their living conditions by collecting stones to build more durable houses, leading to a marked improvement in their overall quality of life, and contributing to a healthier and more stable environment.
Location and Structure of the Cave Church
The church is located in an area known as “Garbage City,” which was named so because the majority of its residents work in waste management and recycling.
The site includes six main structures, each with its own character: the Church of Saint Anba Shenouda, the Church of Saint Anba Abram ibn Zar’a Syriani, the Church of the Angel, Mary, and Hanna, the Church of Saint Anba Paula, the Church of Saint Anba Antonios, and the Church of Saint Mark.
Each of these structures has its own unique architectural features, reflecting various aspects of local traditions and the cultural heritage of the area.
The architecture, with its meticulously carved walls and thoughtful layouts, demonstrates the considerable skill and dedicated effort involved in its construction.
The Name of the Cave Church
The site is known as the Church of Saint Simon, in honor of Simon the Tanner, a historical figure who worked in leather tanning and shoemaking. He lived during the time of Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah al-Fatimi, and is referred to in Coptic tradition as Simon the Shoemaker.
His story, as told in legends passed down through generations, is a subject of ongoing interest and contemplation for many, providing insight into local traditions and the historical context of the area.
Some legends recount that on one occasion, when a woman came to him to repair her shoe, and he inadvertently looked at her legs, he gouged out his eye with an awl, fulfilling a religious precept. When news of Simon’s action reached the site leaders, they decided to forgive him for what was deemed an unintentional offense, and since then, the site has been known as the Church of Saint Simon. (This story is considered one of the circulated legends).
Popular Stories and Legends about the Cave Church
Among the various stories and narratives associated with the site, the tale of a group of farmers and agricultural workers who left their villages due to difficult economic conditions and in search of better employment opportunities stands out.
These individuals settled in the area surrounding the church, creating a community that combined their rural roots with their new urban reality. These people worked hard in raising livestock, animals, and birds, and creatively used waste to feed their animals, demonstrating their innovation and adaptability.
The community, despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, came together to foster a sense of unity and provided mutual support to each other, enhancing their social bonds. In 1976, a fire broke out in the area, resulting in the collapse of some structures, but the residents worked diligently to rebuild their homes and revitalize their community.
These stories and legends help preserve the collective memory of the site and its inhabitants.
The Church’s Role in Tourism
The site is of great importance for those who are interested in historical sites and unique architectural structures, attracting visitors from all over the world to explore the structures, appreciate the beauty of their design, and see the artwork and inscriptions on their walls.
These artworks offer valuable insights into local beliefs, practices, and traditions, contributing to an understanding of the site’s cultural and historical context.
The site includes dedicated areas for gatherings and community events, as well as areas that promote personal reflection and tranquility, making it a multifaceted destination. These various elements contribute to the uniqueness of the site and its attraction as a destination of historical and cultural significance.
The Legend of Moving the Mokattam Mountain
Among the legends surrounding the site, the story of moving the Mokattam Mountain by Simon the Tanner during the reign of the Fatimid Caliph Al-Mu’izz is prominent. According to this legend, the Caliph, seeking to prove the power of faith, challenged religious figures to fulfill a religious text that spoke of moving a mountain through faith alone.
After a period of prayer and fasting, a vision was said to have appeared, informing the religious leaders that the mountain would be moved through Simon. Subsequently, they went with Simon, and after a period of intense prayers and supplications, the mountain was reported to have moved from its original position.
This story, while not true, is nevertheless an important part of the local narrative and a significant point of interest for locals and visitors alike, adding an air of mystery and significance to the site.
What is “Garbage City”?
“Garbage City” is located at the base of the Mokattam Mountain and acquired this name because of the widespread waste in its streets. Despite facing a constant set of challenges related to waste management, the residents have adapted and developed ways to sustain themselves through waste collection and recycling.
This process has evolved into a practical system of resource management where materials are processed and reused. Residents rely on simple yet effective methods of waste management, using the waste to raise livestock, demonstrating their adaptability and innovation.
In conclusion, we have explored the site in Cairo, widely known as the Church of Saint Simon. The Cave Church, located within the Mokattam Mountain, is a powerful example of the relationship between history, community, and the environment, and a testament to human resilience and creativity.
Cairo Tours: Discover The Cave Church and More