The Hanging Church in Old Coptic Cairo (Masr al-Qadima). •• The first church here was built in the 3rd century, and this more permanent structure was built in the 690s. There’s no 1 missing - just the 690s. •• It was originally called The Hanging Church because it was built on top of the gates of an old Roman fortress - though all that is now underground and the church stands at almost ground level. •• The church still operates as Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church. It’s always kind of astounding when you visit historic buildings that are still being regularly used. I visited during some kind of children’s church choir event, seeing plenty of local families shuffling their children inside the church and hearing beautiful singing even out in the courtyard. Go visit when you’re in Cairo! . . . .