| Drive by a modern air-conditioned vehicle to Wadi El-Natrun, the actual birthplace for Christian monasticism. Basically, there were about 50 monasteries, only 4 have survived into modern times. Begin your trip with Deir al-Baramus which is the oldest of the surviving 4 monasteries, and in many ways the most isolated, then proceeds to Deir Anba Bishoi whose body is still in the monastery. Continue your trip to Deir Abu Maqar which is the richest monastery now in Wadi El-Natrun, as it has more than 100 monks and 600 workers in the extensive farm which spreads in front of it. You will end your trip with Deir El-Suryani which is the smallest and most compact of the 4 monasteries. |
