15 Nov 2024
It was truly a wonderful and very special trip. It is a nice way to experience the richness and diversity of Egyptian history and culture. The monasteries are so calm and beautiful, and it is amazing how long they have stayed in use. The frescoes and icons are still very clear and colourful despite being many hundreds of years old, and the different buildings also bear witness to the not always easy life there in pre modern times. The guide, Henry, made it a very special tour for us - he introduced us to many different monks and we got to hear about their experience living in the monastery and why they chose this way of life. It was also nice to hear how they, despite their quiet and secluded lives, are involved in society both through agriculture, academic studies and charity. Truly a wonderful experience.