St. Katherine, Taba is one of the major tourist attractions in Taba. In 330 AD Emperor Constantine constructed a small church in the Moses Burning Bush. This church was known as the Church of the Transfiguration. The monastery of St Katherine, Taba was built during the reign of emperor Justinian in between 527-565 AD. This monastery was dedicated to St Katherine of Alexandria. The monks found the remains of St Katherine and buried them in the Basilica. This monastery was fortified in order to protect the monks.
St. Katherine is situated beneath the Moses Mountain. It has been one of the greatest pilgrimages in Taba for more than fifteen centuries. The fortified monastery houses a citadel and a library. This monastery has a rich historical background. Inside the library you will find various ancient manuscripts and historical artifacts. The library has a huge collection of manuscripts and some invaluable coins of the century. Besides you will also find the exquisite Byzantine Icons, objects of silver, gold and other precious stones. This is a significant religious site and is positioned on the site of Burning Bush.
The monastery is fronted by beautiful gardens. The monastery is well decorated with carved doors and exquisite wall paintings. You will also find an excellent collection of religious ornaments which are exhibited in the monastery. The towering walls symbolize the architectural marvel of the century. The monastery has in fact one of the finest collection of Christian artifacts. This monastery is open to public whereby they can get to know about various historical facts.
The church of St. Katherine in Taba is basically the martyrdom of St Catherine who was beheaded by Emperor Maximanus because of her adherence to Christianity. She tried to convert the Emperor to Christianity with her extensive knowledge and reasoning. There was a myth behind this tragic incident. It was said that virgin Catherine belonged to a noble family and was highly educated. She even astonished the Emperor with her extensive knowledge but some how failed to convert him to Christianity. Later the Emperor ordered for her execution.Five centuries after her death the monks discovered the intact body of St Catherine on the mountains. Every year in the month of November the monks celebrate the anniversary of the martyrdom of St Catherine. St. Katherine, Taba is one of the historic sites which have become widely popular among the travelers.
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