Enaton

The Enaton (or Ennaton, Hennaton) was a monastic district in Egypt during the Middle Ages. It lasted into the 15th century, but it was at its height between the 5th and 7th centuries.^[1] It takes its name, which means "ninth" (Greek ἔνατον), from its location at the ninth milestone southwest of Alexandria along the coastal road.^[2]

The Enaton was composed of distinct monasteries and cells which elected a common hegumen (leader). Theologically, the Enaton was Miaphysite. In its heyday, the district was international in character, comprising both Copts and Syriacs.^[2] It was a waystation (Roman mutatio) for travellers from Alexandria to the monasteries of the Nitrian Desert and the monastery of Saint Mina. It probably served as an inn or hostel for pilgrims, tourists, merchants and their animals.^[3]