St. Mark's Cathedral in Alexandria — Attraction in Alexandria

The most important and historically significant cathedrals in Alexandria and probably in the world, St. Mark’s Cathedral is the historical seat of the Pope of Alexandria, the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Believed to stand on the site of a church founded in AD 42 by Mark the Evangelist, in AD 311 a chapel was recorded here, containing bodies said to be of Mark and his successors.

Enlarged in the days of Pope Achillas, the church was ruined in 641 during Arab conquests against Roman Egypt, but was rebuilt in 680 by Pope John III of Alexandria.

In 828, most of the body of Saint Mark was stolen and removed to Venice, with only the head remaining in Alexandria.

The church was destroyed again in 1219, during the crusades, then rebuilt again. It was pulled down during the French invasion of Alexandria in 1798, then rebuilt and reopened in 1819 by Pope Peter VII of Alexandria and restored in the 1870s.

Between 1950 and 1952, the church was again pulled down, apart from its two bell towers, and replaced by a larger building of reinforced concrete, with six marble pillars retained as part of the new portico, and with the icon carrier reinstated. The two bell towers were reinforced with concrete and decorated with beautiful...

Stepping into this church feels like stepping into another world—one filled with light, peace, and a sense of the sacred. From the very first glance, the architecture is breathtaking: soaring ceilings, intricate carvings, and windows that catch the sunlight in dazzling colors. Every corner tells a story, every stone seems to carry centuries of prayer.

Inside, there’s a stillness that quiets the heart. The play of light through the stained glass is nothing short of divine, painting the walls with shifting hues that feel alive. The details—the icons, the candles, the polished wood—are crafted with such devotion that you can sense the love and faith poured into every element.

But beyond its beauty, what makes this church unforgettable is the atmosphere. It’s more than a building; it’s a living sanctuary. Whether you come as a pilgrim, a tourist, or someone simply seeking peace, you leave with a deeper sense of wonder and calm.

Truly one of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen, both as a work of art and as a place of the spirit....

St. Mark's Cathedral in Alexandria is one of the most important religious landmarks for Coptic Orthodox Christians in Egypt. It holds historical and spiritual significance as it is believed to be the site where St. Mark the Evangelist, the founder of the Coptic Orthodox Church, preached and spread Christianity in Egypt. The cathedral's architecture blends traditional Coptic and Byzantine styles, with a stunning façade and a beautiful interior adorned with intricate icons and frescoes. The cathedral is a center of religious and cultural activity in Alexandria, hosting numerous ceremonies and events. As a symbol of faith, history, and culture, St. Mark's Cathedral is a must-visit for those exploring Alexandria's...