In the early years of Christianity a strong churc h the Coptic'was established in Egypt, and it flourished in this area, now south of the city center.
It is surprising that Egypt ever held Christians. 
mnli hypothesis: It is surprising that Egypt ever held Christians.  premise: In the early years of Christianity a strong churc h the Coptic'was established in Egypt, and it flourished in this area, now south of the city center.