13th June 2013
Kidiseen Coptic Church - El Tod - Luxor
Kidiseen Coptic Church - El Tod - Luxor
El Tod (Toud – Tawd) is mostly known for the Temple of Montu.
The village of Tod is on the east bank of the Nile, 20km south of Luxor. Its ancient name was Djerty and Tuphium in classical times. The site of the remaining temple dates back to Userkaf of Dynasty V in the Old Kingdom when there was a local cult of the god Montu here.
Kidiseen Coptic Church
The site of this church is immense and is surrounded by a high walls. In the centre is the original church along with old water well. In the surrounding area are many modern parts and buildings. There are three main entrances with two of them having very high towers on each side and cross on top.
I was unable to find anyone that spoke English so this is my view of things as seen.
There are two very large buildings still being completed. In one the inside looks like accommodation of some sort with many floors and rooms and shower facilities. Another building was more finished inside and with carpets on tiled floors and finished column where prayer is made.
Another part of this building had hospital equipment, trollies and beds all in disarray. There was a basement that was locked up and looked finished, I guess that this might be the hospital.
There were many other projects being worked on within the walls of this church and I can only imagine that is for the good of El Tod.
The village was amazing. Just like any other none tourist village, it depends on its own industries and businesses to survive. It’s when you visit these villages that you realise just how wonderfully rustic and rural they are. All of the people being very friendly and wearing the loveliest of smiles.
A lady friend and I took a drink in one of the local cafes and made friends with the locals there. We played dominoes and my friend danced with some of the locals. It was for me a great day and this is why I choose to live here.
This must be the original church.
The Water Well aside the church
Church to the left at bottom - Accommodation to the right with possible hospital in basement
The well and well house
Monastery Re-visit - 3rd October 2014
Today there was a National Holiday and the children were here for some learning and fun.
The Village of El Tod