The Saint Catherine Protectorate

The Saint Catherine Protectorate is located at the confluence of Wadi El-Esba'iya and Wadi El-Arba'een, on a high plateau surrounded by towering mountains of varying heights. These include Mount Saint Catherine, the highest peak in Egypt, Mount Sinai, Mount Safsafa, Mount El-Sana'a, Mount El-Banat, and Mount Abbas. These mountains are characterized by steep, undulating slopes that are difficult to climb without designated trails. The protectorate boasts a unique cultural heritage, embodied in Saint Catherine's Monastery with its architectural features, artistic treasures, and archaeological artifacts. It also encompasses the surrounding sacred mountains of religious significance, as well as other religious sites such as the tombs of the Prophets Saleh and Aaron.

The Saint Catherine Protectorate includes the following

1- A range of mountains

2- Wildlife, including:

Plants

A collection of rare medicinal plants

Animals

(A variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including the Sinai blue butterfly)

Water resources such as wells and shrines of prophets (peace be upon them)

The Introduction: The Total Area of ​​the Reserve

The area of ​​the Saint Catherine Protectorate is approximately 4,250 square kilometers, though some estimates and official sources place it at around 5,750 square kilometers. It is the largest protectorate in Egypt, stretching across most of the mountainous region in central South Sinai.

It was established in 1988

The protectorate is bordered to the north by Wadi Zaghra, the Colored Mountain, the village of Al-Tarfa, and the Feiran Oasis; to the east by the end of Wadi Zaghra and the Dahab road from Wadi Madsus to Jabal Al-Bayda; and to the south by the Sharm El Sheikh/Al-Tur road, which is approximately 20 kilometers long.

A Mountains Within the Saint Catherine Protectorate

The Saint Catherine area is surrounded by several mountains of varying heights, including

1- Mount Saint Catherine

One of the highest mountains in Egypt, it is the highest peak in the country, reaching 2,641 meters above sea level. It is the highest mountain peak in Egypt, with a height of 2,629 meters. Mount Catherine is located in South Sinai, near Saint Catherine's Monastery. It is considered one of the most important natural and historical landmarks in the country, renowned for its natural beauty and rich religious and cultural history.

The Origin of the Name

It was named as such because, according to monastic tradition, angels carried the body of Saint Catherine from the site of her martyrdom in Alexandria in 307 AD and brought it down to this mountain. Currently, only her skull and one hand bone remain, preserved in two reliquaries within the church.

From the summit, one can see, as far as the eye can see,

the Gulf of Aqaba

and the Gulf of Suez

Geographical Location and Topography

The Mount Catherine is located in the heart of South Sinai and is characterized by its rugged, rocky terrain and mountain paths that require considerable effort to climb.

The mountain is surrounded by a group of peaks, such as Mount Sinai and Mount Umm Shumar.

The entire area is considered a nature reserve and contains rare species of plants and animals.

It contains rare rocks

Among the most prominent rocks found in the area are pink and gray granite, characterized by its mineral composition rich in quartz, feldspar, and mica. These rocks are igneous rocks formed by the cooling of volcanic lava beneath the Earth's surface over millennia. They provide important information about the Earth's history and the evolution of the Earth's crust in this region. They also contain rare minerals that can be used in geological and mineralogy studies.

The Adventurers and Geology Enthusiast

The mountain is characterized by rugged and diverse terrain, including high peaks and deep valleys carved by erosion over time. These formations make the area an ideal destination for geology enthusiasts and adventurers.

Some of its most famous rocks:

The Caperon Granite

Considered one of the most famous types of granite in Egypt, it is distinguished by its beautiful pink color and rich mineral composition.

The Basalt

Small quantities of volcanic basalt have been found in some areas near Mount Catherine, indicating ancient volcanic activity.

The Schist

Schist, a type of metamorphic rock formed under high pressure and temperature, can be found in the area.

The Environmental and Geological Significance of Mount Catherine

These rare rocks make the region an important source of scientific research, as they are studied to understand the evolution of the Earth and continents in this part of the world.

The Historical and Religious Significance of Mount Catherine

Mount Catherine is considered a holy site by the three Abrahamic religions. It is located near Saint Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, and many believe the mountain holds religious and spiritual significance.

The Climate and Weather

Mount Catherine has a cold climate in winter, with occasional snowfall. In summer, the weather is milder but remains cold compared to the surrounding areas.

The Hiking and Climbing

Climbing Mount Catherine requires a local guide and takes approximately 3-5 hours to reach the summit. There are several trails, including the "Prophet Elijah Trail," which offers breathtaking views.

2- The Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa)

With a peak of 2285 meters, the city is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains and valleys, making walking through them a delight. This has led to the popularity of safari trips for nature lovers. It is one of the most famous mountains in the region, named after the Prophet Moses (peace be upon him), who ascended the mountain for forty days, communing with God and receiving the message.

A small church and a small mosque stand atop its summit. Mount Sinai rises to approximately 2285 meters above sea level.

Mount Sinai is one of the most famous natural and religious landmarks in the region, surrounded by other mountain peaks that create a majestic natural landscape.

The mountain is named after the Prophet Moses (peace be upon him), as it is considered, according to the three Abrahamic religions, the mountain where God spoke to Moses and where he received the Ten Commandments.

The Mount Sinai, located in Saint Catherine, South Sinai, is one of the most important religious sites in the world.

This mountain has several names, including Mount Sinai, Mount Moses, Mount of God, Mount Tabor, and Mount of the Law. Before Islam, it was known as Mount Horeb.

The Importance of Mount Sinai ( Mussa) According to Islam

Mount Sinai is also known as the Mount of Divine Communication, referring to the historical moment when God Almighty called upon His Prophet Moses and spoke to him directly. This mountain witnessed a great divine event, where God Almighty spoke to Moses, peace be upon him, and where he received the Tablets of the Covenant from his Lord. It is surrounded by the sacred valley of Tuwa, the place where Moses arrived, saw the fire, and where the intimate conversation between him and his Lord, may He be glorified and exalted, took place, as mentioned in several verses of the Holy Quran. Due to the mountain's significance and the sanctity of its valley, it is mentioned eight times in the Holy Quran. Mount Sinai is located in the center of South Sinai, approximately within the boundaries of Saint Catherine's Monastery in the South Sinai Governorate. It is bordered to the north by Saint Catherine's Monastery and to the south by Saint Catherine's Mountain. It is also adjacent to Mount Safsafa and Mount Tajalli, from whose summit the monastery can be clearly seen, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Within the monastery are an ancient Greek church and a small mosque. It is said that the Prophet Moses tended the flock of the Prophet Shu'ayb (peace be upon him) on this mountain, and it was in this area that he received his first divine revelation, commanding him to return to Egypt and rescue the Israelites from Pharaoh's tyranny and corruption. During the Islamic era, Prince Abu al-Mansur Anushtakin built a mosque within the monastery and another on the summit of Mount Shari'a in 500 AH (1106 CE). During the reign of the Fatimid Caliph al-Amir bi-Ahkam Allah, Muslims made a point of visiting the monastery and Mount Shari'a during their pilgrimage to Mecca, leaving numerous commemorative inscriptions in the mosque's mihrab.

The Mosque at the Summit of Mount Sinai

Considered the highest mosque in Egypt, it is located next to the Greek Orthodox Church at the mountain's highest point. It consists of two levels:

The Upper Level

This is a rectangular chamber with a wooden roof, used for prayer and meditation, embodying the spirit of religious coexistence in this holy place.

The Lower Level

This is a mosque carved into the mountain, accessible via a small staircase.

The Moses' Stone

This is one of the most important landmarks encountered during the ascent. It is believed to be the stone that the Prophet Moses struck with his staff, causing springs of water to gush forth, as mentioned in the holy books. It was surrounded by a stone wall for protection after being targeted by theft attempts in ancient times.

The importance of Mount Sinai according to the Christian religion

This mountain was also famous among many early Christian travelers and pilgrims, who spread from an early period to this holy spot to feel its blessing, during their journey to and from the Holy Land in Palestine. The nun (Ethiria), who visited the Holy Land between the years 383-384 AD, is considered one of the most important pilgrims who visited that region at an early period and provided us with a good description of the condition it was in, and the structures that were in it. She climbed the mountain and encountered many hermits and ascetics who told her of their repeated Berber raids. Two centuries later, they appealed to Emperor Justinian for protection from these attacks. He ordered the construction of a fortress to safeguard the monks from the Berbers, choosing the foot of the mountain as its location. This is the point where the history of the mountain connects with that of the famous monastery named after Saint Catherine. Many visitors to this site are Christians, and these visits have increased, particularly after the Crusades in the Islamic East.

The Significance of Mount Sinai in Judaism

This mountain is also known as the Mount of the Law, as it is the mountain where Moses received the Tablets of the Law from his Lord. These are ten tablets that Moses wrote when God revealed the Torah to him. The tablets were placed in a box made of acacia wood, called the Ark of the Covenant, which the Israelites carried with them wherever they went. They lost it during their wars after entering Palestine because they did not follow the teachings of the Torah and abandoned the worship of the One God, instead worshipping multiple gods and erecting idols to them on the mountains.

The Significance of Mount Sinai According to Pagan Religions

From that time until now, the mountain has held special significance, not only for the People of the Book but also for pagans. Saint Anthony, writing in the 6th century AD, describes some of the pagan rituals performed on its summit. The Nabataeans' and Bedouin's reverence for this place may be a direct result of the prevalence of ascetics and worshippers in this sacred area.

How to Climb Mount of Mouses

With Mount Sinai reaching approximately 2285 meters above sea level, the ascent to its summit takes more than two hours. The journey includes the following stops – Note: Not all stops are in the same order:

A – The Monks' Path or Moses' Path

This is the path Moses took to the summit. It lies behind the southern wall of Saint Catherine's Monastery. The monks of the monastery constructed this path using over 3500 stone steps, which were restored in 1911. This path is more difficult to ascend but easier to descend from the summit. It passes by the Church of the Virgin Mary and then the Steps of St. Stephen, where a monk used to sit to hear confessions from visitors and pray for their repentance.

B- The Camel Trail or Abbas Pasha Trail

This trail was commissioned by Khedive Abbas Hilmi I in the 19th century, hence its name, Abbas Trail. However, the more common name is the Camel Trail, as one can ride a camel to the summit of the mountain.

The Abbas Trail begins at the eastern wall of St. Catherine's Monastery and leads to the top of Mount Sinai. It winds its way uphill until it reaches the area of ​​the Prophet Elijah's bed, and from there to the summit of Mount Sinai.

C- Wadi al-Arba'in (Valley of the Forty)

This valley is located at the beginning of the ascent to Mount Sinai. It contains a collection of ancient gardens, some over 400 years old, renowned for their olive and pine trees, as well as some rare mountain plants, making it a special destination for nature lovers.

E - The Camel's Footprint

After the area of ​​Farsh Ilya, we reach stone steps that lead directly to the summit of Mount Moses. The number of these steps reaches more than 750, known as the Steps of Repentance. Then, about fifty meters before reaching the summit and to the right, there is one of the natural traces in the rock, which is a natural imprint of a camel's hoof. This trace is known as the Camel's Footprint, in which the Bedouins believe.

R - The Mount Sinai Church (Church of the Virgin)

Located near the summit of the mountain, this church was built on the ruins of an ancient monastery belonging to the nuns of Saint Catherine's Monastery. It is one of the most prominent Christian religious landmarks in the region and is also known as the Church of the Virgin, representing a symbol of the area's rich religious history.

Z - The Elijah's Bed

The area of ​​Elijah's Bed is considered the place where the seventy elders of the Israelites were honored to partake in the covenant meal and witness the divine revelation (Moses chose seventy men from among his people for our appointed time). This area is known as Elijah's Bed and features a collection of tall cypress trees, some jujube trees, rare plants, and a water well said to be Moses' Well. There are also the ruins of an ancient quarry from which stones were taken for Emperor Justinian's Church on the summit of Mount Sinai. In addition, there are numerous ruins of cells dating back to the early centuries of Christianity, and several small churches scattered throughout the area. This is one of the areas traversed by those heading to the summit of the mountain. It is believed to be the place where the Prophet Elijah (peace be upon him) hid to escape the Israelites, according to some accounts. It is considered one of the important tourist and spiritual sites in South Sinai.

Q - The Archaeological Sites

Mount Sinai contains several structures, some of which were built recently, others ancient, and some built upon the foundations of older buildings. The writings of Christian travelers and pilgrims provide us with crucial information about some of the structures that once stood atop the mountain. This information is provided by the nun Etheria, the traveler Jacob de Verona, the renowned traveler Brandenbach, Felix Fabri, the photographer Thun Waltherwell (who visited the area in 1587), the photographer De Velcovi (who visited the area in 1665), and the researcher Richard Pococke (who published his account of his visit in 1743).

S - The Arches of St. Stephen

Located on the Monks' Path, these are a series of stone arches where St. Stephen would sit to receive visitors who would confess their sins and pray for them. These arches represent a historical symbol of a period of asceticism and monasticism on the mountain. They are located on the Monks' Path and are named after St. Stephen, who would sit there to receive visitors and confess their sins. Situated at the beginning of the ascent to the mountain, the area comprises a group of ancient gardens, some over 400 years old, renowned for their olive and pine trees, as well as a variety of other plants.

The Best Times to Visit Mount of Mouses

The mountain attracts a large number of local and foreign tourists, especially those wishing to climb it at night to witness the sunrise from the summit, a sight considered one of the highlights of the trip. The sunset is also breathtaking, set against the backdrop of the surrounding Sinai mountain range. In winter, snow sometimes blankets its peak, adding to its natural charm and creating an exceptional atmosphere. Mount Sinai's weather is characterized by its fluctuations and distinct differences from the rest of South Sinai due to its high altitude. A cold mountain climate prevails for most of the year. In summer, despite the generally high temperatures in Sinai, the weather on the mountain remains more moderate, especially at night. In winter, temperatures drop significantly, sometimes falling below freezing, with the possibility of snow on the summit. Spring and autumn offer mild to cool weather, making them the best times to visit.

3- The Mount Serbal

This mountain is located in Wadi Feiran in South Sinai, Egypt. Reaching a height of 2,070 meters (6,791 feet), it is the most famous mountain in Sinai after Mount Sinai (Mount Moses). Situated north of the city of El Tor and west of Mount Sinai, it is the fifth highest mountain in Egypt. Mount Serbal is part of the Saint Catherine National Park.

The Mount Serbal is considered one of Sinai's geological and historical gems

The Mount Serbal is one of the most unique and mysterious geological sites in South Sinai, combining captivating natural beauty with significant geological importance. Composed of very ancient granite rocks, believed to have formed during ancient geological eras, it is a prime example of ancient volcanic terrain. These mountains are characterized by their diverse and sharp rock formations, shaped by erosion over millennia. Geologists can study these rocks to better understand the history of the Earth in this region, as the sharp edges and high peaks offer a glimpse into the geological and volcanic activity that the area witnessed millions of years ago.

The Environmental Diversity

The Serbal Mountains are not just Rocky Mountains; they also boast a rich natural environment that includes a variety of wild plants adapted to the desert climate of Sinai, including:

The Acacia (Acacia spp.)

Acacia trees improve the soil by fixing nitrogen and preventing erosion. They are used as windbreaks and a food source for animals. They also provide wood and gum arabic and contribute to combating desertification.

The Wormwood (Artemisia spp.)

Wormwood is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as inflammation and fever, and is characterized by its aromatic scent. It also contributes to improving soil quality and acts as a natural barrier against agricultural pests.

The Retama raetam

Retama raetam is used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory and to treat digestive problems. It is believed to strengthen the immune system and has antimicrobial effects.

The Sagebrush

Sagebrush is used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems such as coughs and sore throats. It also helps improve digestion and relieve stress. It is also considered antimicrobial and beneficial for boosting immunity.

The Peganum harmala (Syrian rue)

Peganum harmala is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows in arid regions and is characterized by its small white flowers and seeds, which are used in traditional medicine. It is used in folk medicine to treat a range of health conditions, including digestive disorders and skin infections. It is believed to possess antimicrobial properties and to help relieve anxiety and stress.

The Historical and Religious Significance

Besides its geological significance, the Sarbal Mountains hold great historical and religious importance. Some believe these mountains may be linked to ancient historical and religious events, adding to their mystique and sanctity.

From a Jewish perspective

Some believe the name "Serbal" derives from "Serb Baal," or the palm trees of the god Baal. It was considered a holy mountain before the Exodus of the Israelites, and people are said to have made pilgrimages to it annually. Some believe it to be the biblical Mount Sinai. Numerous granite dwellings once stood on Mount Serbal, inhabited by hermits in early Christian times. The remains of a 4th-century monastery can be found near its base. Many inscriptions (some in Greek) found on the rocks at the foot of Mount Serbal and the path leading to its summit likely date back to this period. One spot along the path is called the Valley of the Writing.

From a Christian perspective

The Serbal Mountains are considered religiously significant by some Christian denominations, as the area is believed to have been a refuge for early monks.

4- The Mount. al-Banat (Mountain of the Maidens)

This is a great mountain towards Sirial, separated from it by Wadi Feiran

Jabal al-Banat is a destination for climbing enthusiasts

The area is famous for a popular legend about three sisters who climbed the mountain, tied their braids together, and jumped from the top to escape an arranged marriage. The story has become a symbol of freedom in Sinai folklore.

The legend tells of three of the most beautiful girls in the tribe who were proposed to by three young men. Their father agreed without their knowledge. When they learned of the marriage arrangements, they refused and decided to escape.

The girls climbed to the mountain's summit, tied their braids together, and then jumped from the cliff (which is about 1800 meters high), preferring death to marriage.

5- Jabal al-Safsafah (Mountain of the Willow)

Jabal al-Safsafah rises to about 2060 meters above sea level and is located northwest of Mount Sinai. It is named for the willow tree (safsafah) found along its slopes. The willow tree is a highly branched tree with alternate, unarranged, pyramidal leaves that have serrated edges. Mount Safsafa overlooks the "Plain of Rest" to its west. It rises approximately 1496 meters above sea level and covers an area of ​​about 2 square kilometers.

The Shrine of Prophet Aaron (peace be upon him)

At the mouth of Wadi al-Deir to the east, about 1600 meters west of the monastery, stands a small hill with a rough stone hut known as the Shrine of Prophet Aaron. It still exists today, and it is said to contain the remains of Prophet Aaron, the brother of Prophet Moses (peace be upon them both). However, some argue that this shrine is unrelated to Prophet Aaron, as he died in Sinai during the Exodus. His grave is unknown, and the name originates from the people of Sinai and is associated with the journey of Prophet Moses (peace be upon him).

Giving the Ten Commandments to the Israelites

It has been said that most scholars in the nineteenth century believed that Mount Safsafah was the mountain where Moses stood when he gave the Ten Commandments to the Israelites. They also believed that the plain of Raha was the plain where the Israelites stood when they received those commandments (Exodus 19). And that the hill where the shrine of the Prophet Aaron now stands is the hill where the Israelites worshipped the golden calf that Aaron made for them in Moses' absence at the top of the mountain (Exodus 32).

Third: The Valleys

The Feiran Valley

Claimed to be the Oasis of Rephidim mentioned in the Torah, Wadi Feiran, located at the foot of the mountain, is said to have been the home of an ancient Christian community that lived in Sinai seeking asceticism and seclusion. It is considered one of the holiest Christian sites in the Sinai Peninsula. The village of Wadi Feiran is located 90 kilometers east of Abu Rudeis in the South Sinai Governorate. The valley is 130 kilometers long. The upper reaches of the valley, around Mount Sinai, are known as Wadi al-Sheikh. It flows into the Gulf of Suez 29 kilometers south of Abu Rudeis. Wadi Feiran comprises 47 main settlements and 22 sub-settlements. The population of the village and its sub-settlement is approximately 8,000. Its former name was al-Haswa. The oasis stretches 4.8 kilometers along the length of the valley, 45 kilometers upstream from the valley's mouth, and contains thousands of palm trees. It is inhabited by mountain Bedouins. The monks of St. Catherine's Monastery maintain a farm, two churches, and a small monastery in the oasis. The ancient geographer Ptolemy referred to it as "Paran."

The Valley of Rest

Wadi Al-Rahah – Natural Beauty and Tranquility in the Heart of Sinai

Just steps from St. Catherine's Monastery, Wadi Al-Rahah embraces tales of history and nature, making it one of the most prominent tourist destinations in South Sinai. The valley's name is associated with the journey of the Prophet Moses, as it is believed to be the place where his family rested during his ascent to Mount Sinai to commune with God. This event added a spiritual and sacred character to the place. Towering mountains surround Wadi Al-Rahah, creating an ideal atmosphere for contemplation and tranquility. It offers excellent trails for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts and is a convenient stop for prominent religious landmarks such as Mount Sinai and St. Catherine's Monastery.

This valley was a retreat for President Sadat during Ramadan, where he would seclude himself and record the Quran in his own voice

Wadi Isla

Wadi Isla is the most beautiful valley in Saint Catherine in South Sinai. It was named after the reed plant that grows abundantly in the valley, which the Bedouins used in the past to make baskets to transport their goods from Catherine to El Tor and vice versa. Wadi Isla is a valley located in the South Sinai Governorate in Egypt. The valley is characterized by its evergreens, water beads (small lakes), diverse wildlife, and fresh water falling from the mountains in the form of waterfalls and springs. It also has underground wells, gardens, and medicinal herbs.

The Water Resources

The Wells, Springs, and Waterfalls

The Moses' Well (Shuaib's Well)

It is about 9 meters deep and is characterized by its fresh water. It has recently been equipped with a glass cover and an iron wheel to raise the water. This deep, ancient well, surrounded by stone, is located north of the Church of the Transfiguration. It is said to be older than Saint Catherine's Monastery in Sinai, and that the Prophet Moses watered the sheep of the daughters of the righteous man Shuaib from it after he removed the huge rock from its opening. Therefore, this well was named "Moses' Well," or as its visitors called it, "Shuaib's Well." Although the monastery contains many wells, "Moses' Well" is considered the most famous.

The Olive Well

The Olive Well is one of the important historical wells within the Saint Catherine Protectorate in South Sinai. The well, approximately 38 meters deep and located about 6 kilometers from the city, is a primary source of water for the surrounding farmland and valleys. Situated in a captivating mountainous environment known for its biodiversity and unique climate, it is part of the Saint Catherine Protectorate, home to numerous medicinal plants and rare wildlife.

The Stephanos' Well

This is one of the important historical wells located within the walls of Saint Catherine's Monastery. Its exceptionally sweet water remains the main source of drinking water for the monks of the monastery to this day. The well is located on the southwestern side of the Church of the Transfiguration (the great church of the monastery), specifically to the south of the Church of St. Stephen. Its name is attributed to the engineer “Stephanos Aylul”, the famous Byzantine engineer whom Emperor Justinian sent in the sixth century AD to build the monastery. According to the traditions and stories passed down among the monks of the monastery, it was the engineer Stephanos himself who dug this well to provide fresh water during the construction of the monastery.

Second: Springs and Waterfalls

Ain Kharza and Wadi Al-Naqra

These are not separate locations. Ain Kharza is a prominent landmark and freshwater spring located within Wadi Al-Naqra, situated in the Saint Catherine area of ​​South Sinai. Ain Kharza is a natural lake formed by rainwater at the foot of Jabal Al-Banat (Mountain of the Girls). It is not merely an oasis surrounded by mountains on all sides, but rather a paradise on earth. The Wadi Al-Naqra and Ain Kharza area possesses unique characteristics rarely found elsewhere. Upon entering the valley, fragrant aromas permeate the air, creating an almost heavenly feeling. A tourism expert in Saint Catherine confirmed that Wadi Al-Naqra is one of the valleys of Saint Catherine and encompasses towering mountains, most notably Jabal Al-Banat, around which some of the most famous Bedouin legends revolve. The valley is rich in natural medicinal and aromatic herbs, all of which are used in the manufacture and formulation of medicines. Therefore, upon entering Wadi Al-Naqra, one is immediately enveloped by the fragrance of aromatic plants and natural medicinal herbs. The valley also contains Ain Kharza, a natural spring resembling a lake, reaching a depth of 3 meters and possessing an oval shape with a total area of ​​20 square meters. Bedouins rely on it for grazing and to meet their water needs.

Ain Shakiya (The Desert Refrigerator)

The waterfalls cascade down from the mountainside year-round, providing 100% pure, cold water. This creates a basin known as the "Desert Refrigerator" due to its cool water. The water flows from the mountainside throughout the year, increasing during the rainy season and decreasing during the rest of the year. This water is filtered and 100% pure. These waterfalls have transformed the area from a barren desert into an oasis for rest, relaxation, and enjoyment of the stunning natural scenery. As they cascade down the mountain, they form a spring-like basin where water collects. The city's inhabitants have built a gate to preserve the potability of the water. They also create a water channel from which camels drink during safari trips, and they attract birds and rare wild animals that live in the Saint Catherine Reserve.

The Cachat Spring

The Cachat Spring – formerly known as the Saint Catherine Fountain – is the most famous of Évian's many natural springs. Constructed in 1903, at the same time as the adjacent pump room, it flows year-round at a constant temperature of 11.6°C. Évian owes much of its international renown to this mineral spring. Named after Gabriel Cachat, the owner of the garden where it flowed in the late 18th century, the spring's therapeutic properties were discovered by Count Jean-Charles de Laiser, an aristocrat from the Auvergne region who had fled the French Revolution. He stayed in Évian from June 1790 to September 1792 at Gabriel Cachat's house and drank the spring water daily. The kidney stones he had suffered from for years quickly disappeared. After the water was analyzed as early as 1807, it was recommended as a treatment for kidney and bladder ailments, and its popularity as drinking water increased from the 1860s onwards. The Kasha Spring belongs to the Evian mineral water company.

The Examples of Natural Resources Found in Saint Catherine Protectorate

The Wildlife

This includes 25 mammal species, such as:

Nubian Leopard

Egyptian Gazelle

Hybrae

Sinai Leopard

Wolf

Hyena

Fennec Fox (the smallest fox in the world)

Considered one of the smallest fox species, reaching a length of forty centimeters, it is distinguished by its large ears, sandy and pale gray fur, short tail, and long, soft fur. Other names for it include the common fox or fox fennec fox. It lives in a desert environment and is found in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Its habitat includes: the Western Desert, central and northern Sinai, and the oases.

The Arabian Hedgehog

The Spiny Mouse

The Jerboa

There are also 27 reptile species, such as:

Snakes

The Egyptian Oryx

The Arabian ... Two types of birds: Stork, Eagle, Falcon, Eagle, Kestrel, Partridge, Crested Sandgrouse and Turtle Dove, Owl, Lark, Wheatear, Raven, Sinai Sparrow, and others.

Also, (27) types of butterflies, the most important of which is the Sinai Blue butterfly

As for plants, they are among the most important natural refuges for most rare plants.

The Saint Catherine Protectorate contains more than 472 plant species, including about 22 rare species that do not grow anywhere else in the world. These plants are considered a "natural pharmacy," as they are divided into medicinal herbs, aromatic plants, and grazing plants used in the traditional treatments of the Sinai people.

The most prominent types of medicinal and aromatic plants in Saint Catherine:

1- Al-Athiran (Peganum oleifera)

This plant has a strong aromatic scent and grows in the spring. It is used to treat cramps, and perfumes are extracted from it.

2- Wild thyme (Thyme alba)

This plant is used in food and to treat some heart diseases, coughs, and lower cholesterol levels.

3- Rosemary (Rosemary hollyhock)

This plant is also used in food and to treat some diseases, such as strengthening the immune system, treating headaches, and colon problems.

4- Al-Lasf (Peganum oleifera)

This plant grows in rock crevices and is used to treat rheumatism.

5- Basil or Mountain Mint

An aromatic herb used in food and to treat stomach cramps.

6- Marjoram

Used for weight loss and to treat chest allergies.

7- Wormwood

An aromatic herb that grows in spring on rainwater, used in food and to treat some ailments.

8- Thyme

A rare plant and the sole food source for the Sinai blue butterfly.

9- Saffron

Saffron is considered one of the most expensive spices in the world because it takes three years from planting as seeds until flower production. It must also be harvested by hand, and a large quantity of dried flowers is used to obtain one kilogram of saffron spice.

Among the rare trees and plants:

The Blackberry Tree (Brassicum Officinalis)

It is found inside Saint Catherine's Monastery and is known as the Miracle Tree.

Other plants found in the harsh mountain environment and not outside the region include:

The wild asparagus, wormwood, and wild wormwood

Quince

Have you heard the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) about it? On the authority of Talhah, who said: I entered upon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and he had a quince in his hand. He said: “Here, O Talhah, for it soothes the heart.”

Related Studies

In recent years, a series of studies have confirmed the benefits of this powerful fruit. Research has shown that it can offer a variety of benefits, from improving heart rhythm to improving heart health. It is considered a hybrid between an apple and a pear, but it has a stronger aroma, a firmer texture, and a strong, spongy flesh. Quince is a source of a range of nutrients important for the human body, most notably: Vitamin A, Quince is a fruit rich in vitamin C and B vitamins, high in dietary fiber, and contains a range of minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, copper, selenium, and magnesium, as well as good amounts of potassium. It also contains a type of powerful antioxidant known as polyphenols, which have a remarkable ability to fight free radicals, slow the aging process, and prevent inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and stroke.

Saint Catherine's Famous Handicrafts

Saint Catherine is home to numerous handicrafts that reflect its rich Bedouin heritage and cultural diversity. The city is distinguished by its traditional handicrafts, which rely on the resources of the mountainous and natural environment. Among the most important are:

Herbal Drying

Saint Catherine is famous for drying and packaging medicinal and aromatic herbs (such as thyme, wormwood, and galangal).

Food Industries

Jam Making

Jam is made from mountain fruits (such as figs, almonds, and apricots).

Olive Oil

Production of high-quality olive oil.

Honey

Saint Catherine's mountain honey is considered among the finest in the world, as it is extracted from rare wild plants.

Handicrafts

These include Bedouin embroidery, handwoven carpets, and weaving textiles from sheep and goat wool.

Jewelry and Accessories Making

The crafting of silver and copper items bearing designs that express Sinai's heritage

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Cosmetic Industries

The extraction of natural oils and the making of handmade soaps using medicinal herbs and protected plants. Handcrafted Leather Craft

Leather making is one of the oldest crafts in Sinai. In the early Bedouin communities, leather was heavily reliant on daily life... Thanks for Reading