This monastery is named after Bishoi, who died in 417. His body is still in the monastery, and the monks will claim that it remains uncorrupted in the casket. This idea is not terribly far from the ideals of ancient Egyptian religion. Every July 17, his casket is carried around the church. Anyway, it is on clear exhibition, draped by a linen with his alleged portrait. The monastery also has the residence of the Coptic pope, Shenouda 3, which he used during his exile by President Sadat in the early 1980's. He was originally from Deir Anba Bishoi, like several other former Coptic popes. This monastery is the location of the most photographed spot in Wadi Natrun: The wooden bridge (and do not let any guide book try to tell you that this is terribly new!) connecting the keep (the inner tower, used for hiding when facing a strong enemy) to the stairs.
