Today (Tuesday), H.H. Pope Tawadros II visited the archaeological site of “Abu Mena” in Alexandria. The site includes the Monastery of the Martyr Saint Mina the Wonderworker in Mariout. He was accompanied by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Mr. Sherif Fathy, Alexandria Governor Lieutenant General Ahmed Khaled Hassan, Ms. Nuria Sanz, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Cairo, Dr. Mohamed Ismail, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and Dr. Gamal Mostafa, Head of the Islamic and Coptic Antiquities Sector.
His Holiness arrived at the Monastery of Saint Mina this morning and was received by H.G. Bishop Kyrillos Ava Mina, Bishop and Abbot of the monastery, and the monk Hegumen Tadaeus Ava Mina, the coordinator between the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Monastery of Saint Mina. The delegation then headed to the archaeological area, where the Pope, minister, governor, and UNESCO representative listened to a presentation on the ancient city of Abu Mena, which dates back to the late 3rd century and remained inhabited until the 9th century.
This visit comes as part of the Egyptian state’s interest under President Sisi in restoring and developing Egyptian antiquities, including Coptic antiquities, with a focus on areas such as Fustat in Cairo, Abu Fana in Minya, and Abu Mena in Alexandria.
In the Abu Mena area, recent efforts by the state and the monastery have focused on lowering the groundwater level to protect the site from potential destruction. These efforts led to UNESCO’s support for the restoration plans. The site was designated a World Heritage Site in 1979 and is being prepared to become a major global Christian pilgrimage destination. UNESCO also classified it as a world heritage site in 2001.
The Abu Mena site contains the ancient church altar, the tomb of Saint Mina, the baptismal font, and remains of the old city.
Restoration is scheduled to begin a year from now after completing the groundwater reduction project. This effort involves the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Monastery of Saint Mina, and the Ministry of Agriculture, which has shifted the region’s irrigation system from flood irrigation to drip irrigation. The area has also been cleared of obstructive weeds, and drainage systems have been installed in all directions to prevent water accumulation.
His Holiness praised the state’s efforts across its sectors in preserving this important Egyptian historic site. He emphasized that this site is a holy spot on Egyptian soil that all Egyptians take pride in. It has witnessed thousands of miracles and was known in the 6th century as the “Marble Area” due to its marble-covered structures. It is a globally and nationally significant tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world, including Egyptians—Muslims and Christians—who come to receive blessings from Saint Mina. It stands as a bright chapter in Egypt’s history, delivering a spiritual, national, and cultural message.
Pope Tawadros also noted that seven monks from the Abu Mena area traveled in the 4th century to Ireland, where they preached Christianity. Today, a church bearing their name is present there.
He highlighted that Coptic monasteries are a positive force in society and the nation. A monk in a monastery is not isolated from society; rather, the monastic system requires a balance of worship, study, and work. The fruits of a monk’s labor and mind benefit society.
The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities expressed his happiness with what he saw at the Abu Mena site and affirmed that the state is making every effort to develop the area. He praised President Sisi’s commitment to implementing a comprehensive development plan for the site.
The Governor of Alexandria stated that the governorate, being responsible for infrastructure, will fully carry out its duties. He noted that Abu Mena receives 8.5 million visitors annually, which compels the governorate to maintain the site as a prestigious face of Egypt.
The Director of the UNESCO Regional Office said: “We are here to celebrate the spirit of partnership. The plan to preserve this World Heritage Site has been a learning process for all of us. This is a living heritage site and a part of Alexandria’s global identity—a cultural landscape deeply influenced by human values and history.”
She added: “Abu Mena is more than just a historical site; it is a living testament to the resilience of heritage and the power of collective management. Today’s visit reflects our shared commitment to preserving this site for future generations.”
Following the visit, Pope Tawadros, the Minister of Tourism, and the Governor of Alexandria visited the Monastery of Saint Mina, touring the cathedral and the shrine of Saint Pope Kyrillos VI. The chief of the local tribe near the monastery was present to welcome Pope Tawadros and his guests.
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