Seven km. west of Al-Qusiya, lies the village of Meir. It is mentioned in the Vision attributed to Pope Theophilus (385-412 AD) that the Holy Family came to the village of Meir. The Holy Virgin appeared to this Coptic Pope in a dream which he or one of his disciples later recorded. The Vision states the Holy Family was warmly welcomed by its inhabitants. Therefore, they were blessed with very fertile land and a well. In this village, we visit the church of Abu Sayfayn, which was built around 1950. The church stands in the place where a church was built in 1878, which in turn is believed to have been built over a church from the 4th century.
 © copyright A painting of the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt with the verse: “…for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.” [Isaiah 56:7 KJB] at the Church of Abu Sayfayn at Meir. |
 © copyright A painting of two snakes, Middle Kingdom. |
 © copyright Colorful engraving of a man and a woman, Middle Kingdom. |
 © copyright Magnificent engraving of a servant, Old Kingdom. |
 © copyright. Photo: Popko van Meekeren Exterior of the pharaonic tombs of the ancient and middle kingdoms located at the desert, west of Meir. |
 © copyright A mansion of a great landowner at Meir. |
 © copyright Beautiful colorful paintings, Middle Kingdom. |
 © copyright Engraving of a bird on a wall, Middle Kingdom. |
 © copyright Beautiful engraving, Middle Kingdom. |
 © copyright Colorful engraving of warriors, Old Kingdom. |