The church dates back to the 19th century AD, when parts of it were destroyed as a result of the explosion of a gunpowder-laden boat that was passing near the church. Historians also mention that this church was destroyed several times, and when it was rebuilt, it was taken into consideration that it would have a modern architectural character. All the collapsed buildings around it were removed, but it is likely that the southern wall is the only remaining wall of the ancient church.
The ancient relics of the church, such as the old veil and the ancient icons, were placed inside the new church building. During the recent expansions of the church, catacombs were found extending from the bottom of the church’s nave to the bank of the Nile adjacent to the church. The Copts used to prepare these catacombs during the construction of their churches in the Byzantine era so that they would be ready for worshipers to escape from in the event of any danger or aggression against them by enemies.
