Reviving Egypt’s Heritage: 2 Monasteries Reopened in Qena

The Egyptian government has made another stride in preserving the nation's rich historical and religious heritage. Ahmed Issa, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, along with Major General Pilot Ashraf El-Dawoudi, the Governor of Qena, inaugurated two newly restored monasteries—Mar Jirjis and Anba Bisantyus—in Qena Governorate.

The ceremony was not just a formality but a celebration of collaborative efforts. Dr. Mostafa Waziri, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and Anba Biemen, the Bishop of Naqada and Qus, were also present, along with other government and church officials. They all shared the vision of preserving Egypt's monumental heritage, an essential part of the nation’s identity and a significant draw for tourists from around the world.

After the formalities, a short documentary was shown to the attendees, detailing the restoration process and the historical significance of the monasteries. The documentary reinforced the vital role of such restorations in preserving Egypt's multifaceted heritage, which spans from Pharaonic and Islamic to Coptic and Jewish influences.

Minister Issa took the opportunity to stress that the restoration projects are a part of a broader plan. "These projects align with the national tourism development strategy. We aim to enhance the quality of these historical sites and make them accessible to both Egyptians and international tourists," he stated. The Minister also highlighted the increasing interest in Egypt as a tourist destination and the need for high-quality attractions to sustain that interest.

The collaborative efforts were praised by all. Anba Biemen presented a shield to the Minister and the Governor, acknowledging their pivotal role in the restoration process. This event serves as an example of how multiple organizations can come together for a collective goal—in this case, the preservation of Egypt’s rich history and religious diversity.

In summary, the inauguration of the two monasteries marks not just the revival of important historical sites but also serves as a beacon for what collaborative efforts can achieve in the realm of cultural preservation and tourism in Egypt.