Egypt has a percentage of Christian population known as Coptics who have a good relationship with the predominant Muslim society in current times. However, the past history has shown that it has not always been easy for Christians in Egypt as they were pushed aside with the rule of Islam since the Ottoman invasion and often were often evicted from their local communities and churches.
Known as the Zabalin people in Cairo, this poor Christian community were forced out of their homes in 1970 and built tin shacks as homes which sadly, got burnt down. At this point, they moved to the Mokattam area which is a large high area of rocks. In 1976, they began to carve away at the rocks and constructed several churches built inside the rocks.
These days, the largest and most incredible Rock Church is known as the Church of St Simeon El- Kharraz and can accommodate up to an incredible 2,000 worshipers. Inside it is awe inspiring and hard to believe they could create such a magnificent holy place with limited materials.
In total contrast is the ultra-modern and enormous shopping Mall known as City Stars in the district of Nasr City where many upmarket Egyptians live and work. We know how people love a good shopping experience, even on holiday! City stars has a total of over 750 units ranging from top fashion and sports brands, children’s goods, cosmetics, coffee shops, furniture, cinemas, children’s play area pharmacies, souvenirs and its own food hall with a huge range of cuisines ranging from branded fast food chains to Egyptian dishes, Chinese, Italian and more. The elevators have many floors with glass mirrored lifts taking you to the very top of the mall for a breathtaking view looking down.