Travel Guide Sohag

Situated 100 kilometres south of Asyut, on the left bank of the Nile, it is an important pilgrimage city for the Copts thanks to its many churches and monasteries. The best known is that of Pope Shenouda, also called the White Monastery (Deir el Abiad), whose church dates back to the5th century. Like Asyut, Sohag is also a major university centre. Apart from tourism, which however represents only a small part of the income, the economy is based on the carpet, weaving and sugar industry. Sohag was the most convenient starting point for two worthwhile visits: Akhmim and Abydos (now reached from Luxor).