Seat of the Coptic Orthodox Pope of Alexandria
The Seat of the Coptic Orthodox Pope of Alexandria is historically based in Alexandria, Egypt. It is commonly known as the See of Alexandria, or the Holy See of Saint Mark, to whom the Coptic Pope claims to be the legitimate successor.
Ruling powers moved away from Alexandria to Cairo after the Muslim conquest of Egypt. During Pope Christodolos's tenure, the official residence of the Coptic Pope moved to the Hanging Church in Cairo.
Current seats
- Saint Mark's Coptic [Orthodox Cathedral] 1968–present
- Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral (Alexandria) AD 60–present
There is also a major patriarchal compound within the outer walls of the Monastery of [Saint Pishoy] in the Scetes of the Nitrian Desert of Egypt. It is used when the Pope is in a spiritual retreat or when hosting major ecclesiastical conventions within the Oriental Orthodox Church communion or with the Eastern Orthodox Church or the Roman [Catholic Church].
Previous seats
- The Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo 1047–c.1300
- Saint Mercurius Church (Coptic Cairo) 1300–c.1400
- Saint [Mary Church (Harat Zewila)] 1400–1600
- Saint Mary Church (Haret Elroum) 1660–1800
- Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral (Azbakeya) 1800–1968