Those are the oldest monasteries of Egypt and the entire world.
They are open daily for day trips to the afternoon except in
feasts and fasting time. Coptic fasting dates are different
than in the West so you'd better check it at the Coptic Patriarchate
in Cairo.
For those wishing to spend overnights, a permission is also
required from the Patriarchate. The monasteries suffer from
water shortage and also the food that monks provide is too simple,
so you'd better get your own supplies in case you are sensitive
about it. Monasteries do not have shower and cooking facilities.
Never pay money for services given to you from monks. Remember!
those are people who left life outside for simplicity and purity.
However, donations of staple commodities are welcomed and money
contributions can be put in the special locked boxes scattered
in churches.
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