St. Catherine’s Monastery Awaits Decree as Tourism Pressures Grow
Abp. Simeon of Sinai is urging diplomatic dialogue to protect the historic privileges of St. Catherine’s Monastery amid growing tourism development.
SINAI, EGYPT — As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, the Monastery of St. Catherine the Great Martyr on Mt. Sinai remains the focus of close attention by both Egyptian and Greek authorities, amid ongoing discussions over the preservation of its historic privileges and legal status. The monastery’s newly installed abbot, Abp. Simeon of Sinai, has expressed hope that the matter will soon be resolved through action by the Egyptian state, according to Orthodoxia News Agency.
Greek media report that Egypt has not yet issued a presidential decree formally recognizing Abp. Simeon. At the same time, tourism development projects around Mt. Moses have intensified in recent months, raising concerns among ascetics, scholars, and local communities. A recent article in the French newspaper Libération characterized the plans as a threat to the traditional Bedouin way of life and to the monastery’s long-standing autonomy.
In comments to a University of Athens publication, Abp. Simeon acknowledged Egypt’s interest in tourism while stressing the need for coordinated action to safeguard the monastery’s existence. He emphasized diplomacy and dialogue over legal action, expressing hope for a renewal of the monastery’s privileges following a presidential decree.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Archbishop of Sinai appealed for protection amid escalation at St. Catherine's Monastery.
