Saint Barbara Church, Cairo

The Coptic Orthodox Church of Saint Barbara is one of the best-known churches in the district of Coptic Cairo. Situated on the eastern side of the Babylon Fortress, it has a rich history dating back to either the 5th or 6th century AD. Like many other examples of Coptic architecture, however, it underwent several reconstructions, including a major one toward the end of the 11th century.

The church is known for its valuable artifacts, many of which were relocated to the nearby Coptic Museum, just a two-minute walk away. The architectural layout of Saint Barbara's Church, with its basilican structure and tripartite sanctuary, closely resembles that of Abu Serga, also known as the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus. Adjacent to the church is a convent comprising several buildings, including a school designed by the renowned architect Ramses Wissa Wassef.

Saint Barbara's Church, while a venerable example of ancient Coptic architecture, follows the traditional basilica form. It includes an entrance, a narthex, a long nave, side aisles, and three sanctuaries. As is customary in many Coptic Orthodox churches with multiple sanctuaries, the central sanctuary is the most important and is dedicated to Saint Barbara.