Saint Catherine: The High International Committee of the African-Asian Union Awards has announced that Saint Catherine has been honored with the prestigious AFASU Award, recognizing it as the world’s best capital of religions, tolerance, peace, and tourism.

According to State Information Service Egypt, this accolade underscores Saint Catherine’s significant role as a hub of tourism, culture, and heritage. The region is home to Saint Catherine Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the world and a pivotal center of monastic life in Southern Sinai. The monastery is fortified by a high, two-meter thick granite wall, constructed to safeguard against potential threats.

The area is revered for housing the legendary burning bush through which God is believed to have first appeared to Moses. This site is a repository of invaluable icons and manuscripts, further contributing to its historical and religious significance. Additionally, the region includes the well of Moses, traditionally considered the location
where Moses encountered his future wife, Zipporah.