‘Rocks’ Covered With Ceramic Tiles – Controversy Erupts at the Historic Virgin Mary Coptic Monastery in Egypt

The Coptic Orthodox Monastery of Virgin Mary. Pic – http://wikimapia.org/

OCP News Service – 11/8/21

Cairo-Egypt: Restoration work at the historic Virgin Mary Coptic Monastery in Egypt has sparked controversy. Many Coptic faithful have harshly criticised the covering of the floor of the ancient Monastery chapel with ceramic tiles. The monastery and its chapel underwent renovation last year and reopened on the 1st of August 2021.

However, the believers were shocked to learn that the floor of the chapel has been covered with ceramic tiles. Many believe that it is unacceptable to cover the historic original stone flooring of the chapel with modern ceramic tiles. Air conditioning and plastic chairs were also introduced in the chapel. However, the Coptic Patriarchate responded that it is important to use tiles to make the place comfortable for a large number of visitors.

The historic monastery is located in the Dronka Vilggae of Assiut governorate. It is believed to be the place where the holy family lived before moving to Palestine. This is one of the oldest monasteries in operation in the country.

Source:
OCP News Service