Red Monastery

Overview

The Red Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Saint Pishoy, is a historic Coptic Orthodox monastery located in Sohag, Egypt. It is renowned for its well-preserved Coptic art and architecture, dating back to the 5th century.

The Red Monastery is one of the most important examples of early Christian monastic architecture in Egypt and is a significant site for Coptic Christians.

Religious Site Historical Site

Location

Address

Sohag, Egypt

Neighborhood: Red Monastery Area

Coordinates

26.564200, 31.703100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

50 EGP

Children

25 EGP (under 12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October to April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Blooming gardens
• Cooler temperatures

summer

Hot and dry

• Extended evening hours

autumn

Warm to mild

• Harvest season
• Cooling temperatures

winter

Cool and pleasant

• Holiday decorations
• Cooler weather

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Dress modestly
Bring water and sun protection

What to Bring

essential

Passport or ID Water bottle Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Light jacket (winter) Umbrella (rarely needed)

not allowed

Large bags Food and drinks inside buildings

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking and stairs)

• Stay hydrated
• Sun protection advised

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (Egyptian pounds), Credit cards (major ones)

Currency

Egyptian Pounds (EGP)

Typical Costs

entry 50 EGP

parking 20 EGP

food 50-100 EGP

souvenirs 20-100 EGP

Dress Code

Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable walking shoes, Closed-toe shoes recommended, Revealing clothing, Beachwear

Booking Tips

• At least a week in advance
• Official website or authorized local tour operators
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Red Monastery Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Sohag International Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

Taxi

100-150 EGP 20 min

Public bus

10-20 EGP 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

Taxi

30-50 EGP 10 min

Bus

5-10 EGP 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: A significant religious and historical site

Historical Significance: One of the oldest Christian monasteries in Egypt

Insider Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds
Guided tours provide deep historical insights

Local Recommendations

• Try traditional Egyptian coffee at the monastery cafe
• Visit the nearby White Monastery

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Marhaba

thank_you Shukran

where_is Wain

how_much Bikam

beautiful Helwa

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: Arabic, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Cloister

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture the intricate frescoes and architecture

Result: Stunning shots of ancient art and design

#RedMonastery #CopticArt #EgyptTravel

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Cloister

prohibited areas Church interior, Private areas

flash photography Not allowed inside buildings

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

White Monastery

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Monastery

Akhmim City