The monastery was built in the 6th century and monks abandoned it later, probably after 7 centuries, because of cruel barbaric attacks. Although abandoned, it is in a good state of preservation and secluded in the deserts of Aswan.

The monastery has massive walls and is built in two levels: the lower level is built of stone while the upper one of mud bricks. It has a keep that was supposed to harbor the monks at the time of attacks.

The monastery looks like a fortress rather than a religious compound. Buildings inside follow the typical composition of Coptic monasteries: a church, storeroom, kitchens, bakeries and dormitories.

The monastery is reached by a donkey or horse ride from the Qubbet Al-Hawa or through a route from Agha Khan