Spirituality
Wisdom of the Desert Fathers
Fr. Mina El-Baramousi · 2023
Welcome To
A sanctuary of prayer, heritage, and spiritual wisdom in the desert of Wadi El-Natroun.
Learn MoreMonastery Hours
Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Monastery Location
Wadi El Natrun, Egypt
The Monastery of Saint Bishoy stands as a timeless sanctuary of prayer, heritage, and spiritual wisdom. Rooted in the 4th century, it continues to inspire generations through its sacred traditions and Coptic legacy.
St. Bishoy Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Wadi El Natrun, was founded in the 4th century by Saint Bishoy. It is considered a beacon of monastic life and houses ancient churches, relics of saints, and unique spiritual treasures, making it an important spiritual and historical destination in the Coptic Orthodox Church. As the Holy Bible says: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10), this monastery offers believers an opportunity for contemplation and silence before the greatness of God..
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
The name “Pishoy” is a Coptic word meaning “the exalted” or “the elevated.” He was born in the year 320 AD in the village of Shentna in the Monufia Governorate. An angel appeared to his mother in a dream during the night and told her that God had chosen Pishoy to become a monk and that he would become a father to a great community of monks. When Anba Pishoy became a young man, he left the world and came to the desert of Wadi El Natrun in the year 340 AD, where he became a monk. He was discipled under Saint Anba Pamo and remained in the life of discipleship for 34 years..
Our Sacred Heritage
St. Bishoy Monastery is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Egypt and in the entire world, dating back to the late fourth century AD. It was founded by the great Saint Anba Pishoy. The monastery of Saint Anba Pishoy is located in the desert of Wadi El Natrun, west of the Nile Delta in northern Egypt, midway between the cities of Cairo and Alexandria..
Space and architecture
The historic area of St. Bishoy Monastery covers approximately 2 feddans, 16 kirats, and 14 sahms (about 11,300 square meters). This area is surrounded by massive and high walls that were constructed in the 9th century AD. The length of the walls extends 116 meters from north to south and 95 meters from east to west..
St. Bishoy Monastery was chosen by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of blessed memory to serve as his papal residence during his leadership of the Church. He also chose it to be the resting place of his pure body after his departure, having left a will requesting to be buried there after his repose. It is also noteworthy that His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, may God preserve his life, graduated from this monastery and contributed to the development and construction of many buildings within the papal headquarters. He also established the international Logos Center there, which is considered an unprecedented architectural masterpiece. In addition, Pope Gabriel VIII and Pope Macarius III also came from this monastery. A large number of bishops and metropolitans likewise graduated from it..
Sermons & Teachings
Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a retreat, the monastery welcomes you into a space of silence, worship, and renewal.
Explore the MonasteryLibrary & Publications
Spirituality
Fr. Mina El-Baramousi · 2023
Liturgy
Bishop Bishoy · 2022
Hagiography
Monastery Press · 2022
Prayer
Fr. Rewais Salib · 2021
Heritage
Various Authors · 2021
Monasticism
Monastery Press · 2020
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"Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven"
Matthew 6:20
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