Wadi Feran

Wadi Feran lies on the road from St. Katherine to the west coast. It is one of the largest palm tree oasis of the Sinai.

It is believed by some bible historians that Wadi Feran was the place where the Hebrews made their encampment and where the battle was fought against the Amelecites.

In the 4th century AD Wadi Feran was an important centre and many monks and anchorites had their residence there.It became a seat of the bishopric.The city with the monastery and various churches was fortified. Excavations have revealed the base of the fortified walls,the bishops residence and the monastery and many chapels in the area.

In the 7th century, due to Nestorian heresy, the bishops function was taken over by the monastery of St. Katherine.

Alongside the ruins of the monastery a new, small monastery (convent) has been built, an annex of the monastery of St. Katherine.

The convent has a small guesthousefor anyone wishing to spend one or more nights in the area

Bordering wadi Feran the majestic Gebel Serbal stands (2070 m). At least 2 days is needed for a trek up the mountain (a guide is a must) One is awarded with an amazing view though.

view to Serbal Mountain, Nuwamis on foreground