St. Catherine's Monastery

About

St. Catherine's Monastery dates back to around 330AD when the Byzantine empress Helena had a small chapel and a fortified refuge built beside what was believed to be THE burning bush. In the 6th century, Emperor Justinian I ordered a monastery built, which now attracts pilgrims and history lovers from around the world. In the 6th-century Church of the Transfiguration, you’ll find an astounding array of ornamentation, from a gilded 17th-century iconostasis to the amazing 6th-century mosaic of the Transfiguration. Outside, you can see the descendent of the original burning bush, and maybe bestow marital happiness on yourself by drinking from the Well of Moses. For many, the highlight is the Monastery Museum, which exhibits Byzantine-era icons, precious chalices and crosses, ancient manuscripts, and it’s prized possession: the Codex Sinaiticus, the world's oldest near-complete bible. The monastery’s library, the oldest and second largest in the world, contains an incredible collection of illuminated bibles and manuscripts, including a hand-written copy of the New Testament. Please note: as an active monastery, conservative dress is required (no shorts, and women must cover their shoulders). It’s possible to climb mount Sinai, but appropriate footwear is required, and you will want to add additional time to your stop.