Sights The Introduction to the Region (tinder Essentials) contains a brief explanation of Coptic Christianity as well as a description of the main features of a Coptic church. When touring the Coptic monasteries, modest attire is the rule-no shorts or sleeveless shirts,Deir Anba Bishoi (the Monastery of St. Bishoi), the largest of the four monasteries, is the most accessible to visitors.

Fifteen kilometers from the Rest House and 500m from Deir as-Suryan, this monastery is open daily 7am-5pm (6pm in summer). There are seven churches in the monastery; the Church of St. Bishoi, the Church of St. Iskhiron and the Church of the Holy Virgin (both located within the Church of St. Bishoi), the Church of St. George, the Church of St. Michael, and the recently ^| restored Church of Marcorious and Church of St. Mary. The Church of St. Bishoi has three haikals and is part of the most ancient section of the monastery, dating from the 4th century. It was rebuilt in 444 after being sacked by nomads and now contains the remains of St. Bishoi, who is still believed to perform miracles for the faithful. The church has undergone several restorations and was completely redecorated in 1957. The entrance to the keep of the monastery is on the first story through a drawbridge resting on the roof of the gatehouse.