Wadi Natrun in Alexandria

Wadi Natrun is a northwesterly oriented desert depression about 60 kilometers long situated in the Western Desert near the delta about 90 kilometers northwest of Cairo. Wadi el-Natrun lies some 23 meters below sea level.

Wadi Natrun is a famous destination for bird watching and the area is sprinkled with the presence of nine small lakes. The significance of Wadi Natrun lies in the fact that it served as the most important Christian monastic center and thus became one of the most frequently visited religious destinations for the pious Christians. The monasteries at Wadi Natrun and the surrounding region enjoy the reputation of being some of the earliest Christian monasteries in the world.

Wadi Natrun, Egypt has got a rich history which traces back to the 4th century AD. Presently there are four active Coptic Monasteries at Wadi al Natrun comprising of the Monastery of the Romans (Deir Al Baramus), The Anba Beshoy (St. Boshoi's) Monastery, The Monastery of the Syrians (Deir al-Surian) and The Monastery of St. Macarius (Deir Abu Magar, Abu Maker). The monasteries of Wadi el-Natrun played a pivotal role in the history of the Coptic Christian Church and the monasteries of Wadi el-Natrun also provide us today with essential data for the study of the Coptic heritage, and especially for Coptic literature, art and architecture.

In contemporary Egypt, the monasteries of Wadi Natrun in Alexandria openly greet its visitors with a warm reception. Irregardless of faith, the monks in these monasteries are in general very friendly. Usually, most of the areas within the monasteries can be visited, and there does not seem to be a problem taking snaps in most of the places and it also includes the interior of the ancient churches. Wadi Naturn is a fairly quick and easy journey from Cairo and today it has evolved as one of the favorite tourist destinations in Alexandria.