Monastery of St. Catherine & Dahab

Saint Catherine’s Monastery: A Journey Through Time and Faith

Saint Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, believed to be built around the site of the Burning Bush. This ancient monastery, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, was originally constructed by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the early 6th century. Overlooking the monastery is the biblical Mount Sinai, a place of profound significance in Christian, Jewish, and Islamic traditions.

As the oldest Christian Orthodox monastery, this sacred site is where Moses heard God’s voice from the burning bush, learned His name, Yahweh (“I am who I am”), and received the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments. The Israelites also strayed in these environs, worshipping the Golden Calf. Pilgrims have been visiting Sinai for over 1,700 years, seeking blessings and following in the footsteps of those who have come before them.

According to church tradition, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the monastery’s patron saint, was born in 287 AD to the governor of Alexandria. She became a Christian as a young girl and devoted herself to converting others. She publicly criticized Emperor Maxentius for persecuting Christians and, after debating and converting some of his scholars, was sentenced to death by breaking on the wheel. An angel destroyed the torture device, so the emperor ordered her beheading instead. She was martyred at 18. Her heroic faith was later invoked by Saint Joan of Arc.

Saint Catherine of Alexandria is venerated in both the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches. Around 800 AD, monks discovered her relics within the monastery grounds. Annually, thousands of pilgrims visit to see its precious icons and manuscripts.

Dahab: Egypt’s Caribbean

Dahab is renowned as a paradise for divers and snorkelers, offering stunning coral reefs and hundreds of species of fish and marine life. It is home to the Blue Hole, a massive underwater cave that attracts divers worldwide. Known as the “Egyptian Caribbean,” Dahab features a vibrant bazaar where visitors can purchase beautifully embroidered scarves by Bedouin women and colorful glass lamps. The local eateries add to the town’s unique and charming atmosphere.

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