A couple of kilometres north of the Necropolis of Al-Bagawat – one of the oldest Christian cemeteries in the world – in Kharga Oasis, lies the “Mountain of the Bird”, better known as Gebel Al-Tayr. This intriguing hill boasts some of the western desert’s oldest prehistoric drawings and inscriptions, but also and most importantly, Coptic engravings that date back to the 4th, 5th and 10th centuries. Historians believe these inscriptions were made by desert hermits who lived in the area. Their writings, next to which they’ve drawn a cross, consist of prayers and invocations. However, the absolute must-see in Gebel al-Tayr is located at the top of the mountain in the form of a cave: the Cave of Mary. The small grotto is home to a historical masterpiece: a wall painting representing the Madonna and Child, next to which a prayer has been scripted in yellow and red lines.
Keep in mind that in order to visit Gebel Al-Tayr, you should seek the help of a local guide. The desert road from Kharga is a little tricky and the visit itself has to be led by someone who knows the exact location of each attraction.