Pope Tawadros II Opens First Phase of Holy Family Site in Minya

Pope Tawadros II has opened the first phase of the Kom Maria Holy Family pilgrimage site in Deir Abu Hennes village, south Minya, adding a new stop to Egypt’s network of heritage sites associated with the Holy Family’s journey.

Kom Maria spans around 20 feddans beneath the eastern mountain and already hosts annual religious and folk celebrations linked to the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt.

The new pilgrimage complex has been designed with a relatively limited built-up footprint, giving more space to landscaped areas and water features. A central waterway is intended to evoke the Nile and its Delta, while a tent-like structure at the site’s highest point will house life-sized models of the Holy Family resting during their journey. A Pharaonic-style obelisk topped by the tent will serve as a landmark for the site.

The plan also includes a hall for documentaries and theatrical performances recounting the Nativity and the Holy Family’s journey, alongside exhibition spaces for icons, photographs, historical maps, models and first-century coins.

Visitor facilities include bazaars, cafeterias, a children’s garden, VIP lounges, parking areas, administrative rooms, internet-equipped offices and backup water and power stations.

Pope Tawadros said the project received the approval and directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Construction is being overseen by the Armed Forces Engineering Authority, while implementation is funded by the Diocese of Mallawi.

A dedicated walkway will guide visitors through museum and exhibition areas before leading to the hilltop structure.

The Coptic Orthodox Church says the Holy Family remained in the Minya region for more than three months, passing through sites including Ashmonein, Deirout Umm Nakhla and Beir El Sahaba in Ansena, with Kom Maria among the locations traditionally linked to the journey.