Other Micael Sites in Europe and the World
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4.2 Other Micael Sites in Europe and the World
4.2.1 Sacra di San Michele line
Origin and theory of the 'micaelic straight line
The 'Sacred Line of St. Michael' is a geographical alignment connecting seven shrines dedicated to the Archangel Michael, stretching from Ireland to Israel. The main shrines along this line are:
1. Skellig Michael (Ireland)
2. St Michael's Mount (Cornwall, United Kingdom)
3. Mont Saint-Michel (France)
4. Sacra di San Michele (Italy)
5. Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo (Monte Sant'Angelo, Italy)
6. Monastery of St Michael Archangel of Panormitis (Greece)
7. Stella Maris Monastery (Mount Carmel, Israel)
According to some theories, this line would represent the sword stroke with which the Archangel Michael drove Satan out of Paradise. However, scientific studies indicate that the alignment could be a geographical coincidence, given the spread of the micaelic cult in Europe .
Symbolic and spiritual meaning of the line
The line is often interpreted symbolically as a path of light and spirituality, representing the struggle between good and evil. Some scholars see in it a connection between micaelic cult sites and ancient solar paths, associating the orientation of the line with the setting of the sun on the summer solstice.
Connections with ancient solar paths and geomantic orientations
The 'ley lines' theory suggests that the Earth is criss-crossed by natural energy lines, along which sacred sites are located. The Sacred Line of San Michele would be one of these, connecting places of spiritual power across Europe. This idea is supported by some esoteric and spiritual traditions, although concrete scientific evidence is lacking.
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Images
Map of the Sacra di San Michele Line
St Michael's Mount (United Kingdom)
Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo (Monte Sant'Angelo, Italy)
Monastery of St Michael Archangel of Panormitis (Greece)
Stella Maris Monastery (Mount Carmel, Israel)
Video
Travelling the Michaelmas Line
A documentary exploring the seven shrines aligned along the Sacred Line of St. Michael.
The Mystery of the Michaelmas Line
Insight into the legends and symbolic meanings associated with the line.
The Mysterious Sacred Line of St Michael Archangel
A visual journey through sacred sites dedicated to the Archangel Michael.
Sources and references
4.2.2 St Michael's Shrine in Clonmacnoise (Ireland)
St Michael's Hill and ancient Christian burials
Clonmacnoise, situated on the banks of the River Shannon in County Offaly, is one of Ireland's most significant monastic sites. Founded in 544 by St Ciar n, it became an important religious, cultural and burial centre. St. Michael's Hill is one of the areas of the site associated with early Christian burials. Although there are no structures dedicated exclusively to the Archangel Michael, the hill is traditionally associated with him, reflecting the importance of the micaelic cult in medieval Ireland. The site includes a cathedral, two round towers, three high crosses and numerous ancient Christian gravestones. Many kings of Connacht and Ireland are buried here, underlining the importance of the site as a royal burial ground.
Celto-Christian symbolism and the cult of the Archangel in Ireland
The cult of Archangel Michael in Ireland developed in a context of syncretism between pre-Christian Celtic traditions and the new Christian faith. Michael was seen as a protector and guide of souls, a role that overlapped with Celtic mythological figures. At Clonmacnoise, the influence of the Michaelic cult is manifested through the iconography of high crosses and stone carvings, which combine Christian symbols and Celtic motifs. This fusion reflects the adaptation of Christianity to local traditions and the importance of the Archangel in Irish spirituality.
Presence in local hagiographic texts
The 'Lives' of Saint Ciar n, founder of Clonmacnoise, are rich in hagiographic elements reflecting the spirituality of the time. Although the Archangel Michael is not mentioned directly in these texts, his figure was well present in popular devotion and monastic liturgy. Oral and written traditions of the time often attributed to Michael the role of guide of souls and protector of monks, reinforcing his spiritual presence on the site.
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Images
View of the ruins of Clonmacnoise
High cross with Celtic and Christian motifs
Video
Clonmacnoise Monastery - European Waterways
A video that gives an overview of the monastic site of Clonmacnoise, highlighting its history and architectural features.
Sources and references
Heritage Ireland - Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Academia.edu - Four Offaly Saints: The Lives of Ciar n of Clonmacnoise
4.2.3 St. Michael's Mount in Hildesheim (Germany)
Ottonian Church UNESCO World Heritage Site
St. Michael's Church (Michaeliskirche) in Hildesheim, built between 1010 and 1022 at the behest of Bishop Bernward, is one of the masterpieces of Ottonian architecture. Since 1985, together with St. Mary's Cathedral, it has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its cultural and artistic value.
The building has a symmetrical plan with two apses, characteristic of Ottonian art, and a painted wooden ceiling dating back to the 12th century, depicting the family tree of Christ.
Influence of the Micaelic cult in the Holy Roman Empire
During the Ottonian period, the cult of the Archangel Michael assumed a central role as a symbol of divine protection and imperial authority. The dedication of the church to St Michael reflects the importance attached to the Archangel as defender of the faith and guide of souls. The construction of the church by Bishop Bernward, tutor to Otto III, underlines the link between ecclesiastical and imperial power.
Architecture and iconography
St. Michael's Church is an emblematic example of Ottonian architecture, with a three-nave basilica structure, transept and double apse. The interior is characterised by an alternation of pillars and columns, giving rhythm and harmony to the space.
Important iconographic elements include the 'Column of Christ', a bronze work commissioned by Bernward, depicting scenes from the life of Jesus in a spiral frieze, inspired by Trajan's Column in Rome. This column, originally located in St. Michael's Church, was later moved to Hildesheim Cathedral.
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Images
Exterior view of St Michael's Church
Interior of the church with painted wooden ceiling
Christ's Column (Bernward Column)
Video
St Mary's Cathedral and St Michael's Church at Hildesheim
A video giving an overview of the two UNESCO heritage churches in Hildesheim.
Sources and references
Wikipedia Wikipedia, - St. Michael's Church (Hildesheim)the free encyclopaedia
UNESCO - St Mary's Cathedral and St Michael's Church at Hildesheim
4.2.4 St Michael's Monastery in Honaz (Turkey, ancient Colossi)
Ancient seat of Byzantine worship
Colossi (Greek: Κολοσσαί, Kolossaí),, located in ancient Phrygia, is known for being an important Christian centre and for its mention in the Epistle to the Colossians in the New Testament. During the Byzantine period, the city became the site of an important church dedicated to the Archangel Michael, built nearby. This church was one of the largest ecclesiastical buildings in Asia Minor. However, due to the Arab invasions in the 7th and 8th centuries, the population moved to nearby Chonae (today's Honaz), where the Michaelic cult continued to flourish.
Links with the Eastern Church and Spread in Asia Minor
The cult of the Archangel Michael at Colossi and later at Chonae is part of the broader context of micaelic veneration in the Byzantine Empire. The Archangel was considered a powerful intercessor and protector, and his figure was central to Byzantine spirituality. The spread of the cult in Asia Minor is evidenced by the presence of numerous shrines and churches dedicated to him, which served as centres of pilgrimage and devotion.
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Images
Video
Miracle of the Archangel Michael at Chonae
A short video commemorating the miracle of the Archangel Michael in Chonae.
The Archangel Michael at Colossae
A video exploring the story of the miracle of the Archangel Michael at Colossae and the spiritual significance of the site.
Sources and references
Instagram - Miracle of the Archangel Michael at ChonaeInstagram+1
4.2.5 St. Michael's Monastery in Kiev (Ukraine)
Importance of the Micaelic cult in the Slavic Orthodox tradition
The Golden Monastery of St. Michael (Михайлівський золотоверхий монастир) is one of the main spiritual and cultural symbols of Ukraine. Founded between 1108 and 1113 by Prince Svyatopolk II of Kiev, it was dedicated to the Archangel Michael, patron of Kievan Rus' and protector of the armed forces. The monastery became an important centre of pilgrimage, especially due to the presence of the relics of St Barbara, transferred from Constantinople in 1108. The figure of the Archangel Michael, venerated as an 'archistrategist' (commander of the heavenly hosts), occupies a central role in Slavic Orthodox spirituality, symbolising the defence of the faith and the nation.
History and reconstruction of the monastery after the Soviet era
During the Soviet period, in the 1930s, the monastery was demolished to make way for government buildings, in line with the regime's anti-religious policy. However, with the independence of Ukraine in 1991, a strong desire emerged to restore this important national symbol. Between 1997 and 1998, the monastery was reconstructed, based on historical documentation and archaeological remains. The new cathedral, consecrated in 1999, features a Ukrainian Baroque exterior and an interior decorated with frescoes and mosaics inspired by the original Byzantine style. Today, the monastery is an active religious and cultural centre and the seat of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kiev Patriarchate.
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Images
Video
St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery and Cathedral - YouTube
A walking tour of St Michael's Monastery and Cathedral in central Kiev, including the spacious St Michael's Square and its architectural features.
Sources and references
Wikipedia - Golden Monastery of St. Michael
4.2.6 Mount Saint-Michael de Brasparts (Brittany, France)
Mont Saint-Michel de Brasparts, located in the Monts d'Arr e in Brittany, is an emblematic place where Christian spirituality and Celtic traditions intertwine.
Local legends and syncretism with Celtic beliefs
The mountain, known in Breton as Menez Mikael, is shrouded in numerous legends that reflect the syncretism between Christianity and ancient Celtic beliefs. One of the best known concerns the Elez Yeun, a swamp visible from the top of the mountain and considered to be one of the gates to hell.
According to tradition, the Archangel Michael watches over this place, protecting lost souls from evil forces.
Another legend has it that the mountain was an ancient Celtic sun cult site, later Christianised with the construction of the chapel dedicated to St Michael in the 17th century.
Overview of Breton Folk Spirituality
St. Michael's chapel, built in 1672, is a symbol of popular Breton spirituality. Despite its modest dimensions, the chapel is a landmark for pilgrims and locals. Recently, it was restored with the help of designer Ronan Bouroullec, who respected the essentiality and sobriety of the place.
The mountain is also the scene of legends such as that of the 'Noce de pierre', an array of menhirs that, according to tradition, represent a wedding procession turned to stone for its impiety.
Multimedia content
Images
Panoramic view of Mont Saint-Michel de Brasparts
Video
Mont Saint-Michel de Brasparts - 360 View
A panoramic video showing the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the chapel at the top of the mountain.
Sources and references
Wikipedia - Mont Saint-Michel de Brasparts
Wallpaper - Restoration of the Chapel of Saint-Michel de Brasparts
4.2.7 Sanctuary of St Michael at Jebel Musa (Morocco)
Jebel Musa (Arabic: موسى جبل, 'Mount of Moses') is a mountain located in northern Morocco, on the African side of the Strait of Gibraltar. With an altitude of 842 metres, it is part of the Rif mountain range. It is often identified as the southern 'Pillars of Hercules', as opposed to the Rock of Gibraltar on the European side of the Strait.
Hypotheses on a Micaelic presence in the Islamic and Berber contexts
There is no historical or archaeological evidence of a sanctuary dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel on the Jebel Musa in Morocco. However, the mountain has significant cultural and mythological importance. It is known locally as 'La Mujer Muerta' ('The Dead Woman') for its shape resembling a woman lying down.
In the Islamic and Berber context, the Jebel Musa is associated with local legends and beliefs, but not specifically with the cult of St. Michael. The figure of the Archangel Michael is not as central in Islamic tradition as he is in Christian tradition. However, the Archangel Gabriel (Jibril) is a prominent figure in Islam, known to have transmitted the Koran to the Prophet Muhammad.
Common Symbolisms in the Abrahamic Religions
Despite their differences, the Abrahamic religions share certain symbolism and beliefs. For example, the figure of Moses (Musa) is revered in Islam as well as in Christianity and Judaism. The Jebel Musa, being associated with Moses, represents a point of symbolic convergence between these religions.
In addition, mountains are often considered sacred places of divine revelation in Abrahamic religious traditions. For example, Mount Sinai (also called Jebel Musa in Egypt) is known as the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
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Images
View of the Jebel Musa from the Moroccan side
Jebel Musa panorama at sunset
A collection of high definition videos showing the Jebel Musa and its surroundings.
abal Musa Stock Video Footage - A selection of 4K and HD video clips from the Jebel Musa.
Video
Jbel Musa Summit 851m Hike in Belyounech, North of Morocco
A video documenting the hike to the summit of Jebel Musa, offering panoramic views and details of the route.
Sources and references
Wikipedia - Jebel Musa (Morocco)
TikTok - The Mysterious Mountain of Moses: Jebel Musa in MoroccoTikTok
4.2.8 Micael Sites in Latin America
Colonial and missionary devotion to the Archangel Michael
During the colonial period, the Archangel Michael was introduced into Latin America by Spanish missionaries as a symbol of protection and fight against evil. His figure was often superimposed on local deities, facilitating the integration of the Christian cult into indigenous cultures. In particular, St Michael became an emblem of Christianisation, representing the victory of the Catholic faith over pre-Columbian beliefs.
Mexico: San Miguel del Milagro (Tlaxcala)
In 1631, in Nativitas, in the state of Tlaxcala, the indigenous Diego L zaro reported having had an apparition of the Archangel Michael, who pointed out to him the presence of a miraculous water source. This event led to the construction of the Sanctuary of San Miguel del Milagro, which became an important pilgrimage site. The cult of St. Michael in this region represents an example of syncretism between the Catholic tradition and local indigenous beliefs.
Colombia: Churches and festivities dedicated to St Michael
In Colombia, the cult of Saint Michael manifested itself through the dedication of churches and the celebration of festivities in his honour. Many Colombian communities venerate the Archangel as protector and intercessor, organising processions and special masses during his liturgical feast. These celebrations reflect the importance of Saint Michael in popular Colombian spirituality.
Peru: Districts and festivities in honour of St Michael
In Peru, several localities are named after San Miguel, highlighting the spread of his cult in the country. For example, the District of San Miguel in Lima is one of the urban areas that testify to the Archangel's influence in Peruvian toponymy. Furthermore, on 29 September, the liturgical feast of
St Michael, is celebrated in various regions of Peru with religious and cultural events, underlining his relevance in the Peruvian Catholic tradition.
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Images
Sanctuary of San Miguel del Milagro, Tlaxcala, Mexico
St. Michael's Church, Lima, Peru
Sanctuary San Miguel Arc ngel (San Miguel del Milagro)
A collection of photographs showing the architecture and interior of the sanctuary.
Video
Santuario de San Miguel del Milagro, fusi n entre los ritos prehisp nicos y el catolicismo
A video exploring the fusion of pre-Hispanic rites and Catholicism in the context of the Sanctuary of San Miguel del Milagro.
Sources and references
Wikipedia (EN) - San Miguel del Milagro
Overview of the apparition of St Michael to Diego L zaro and the birth of the sanctuary in Mexico.
Alamy - St. Michael's Church, Lima, Peru
Images of the monastic complex of St Francis, also associated with the Micaelic cult.
YouTube - Sanctuary of San Miguel del Milagro - Tlaxcala
Explanatory video on the syncretization between pre-Hispanic rites and Catholic worship in the context of the sanctuary.
Wikipedia (EN) - San Miguel District, Lima
Information on the toponymic influence of the cult of St. Michael in Peru.
4.2.9 Places dedicated to St Michael in Asia and Oceania
Devotion to St Michael in the Philippines
The cult of St Michael the Archangel is deeply rooted in the Philippines, a legacy of Spanish colonisation. Numerous churches and shrines are dedicated to him, including:
San Miguel Church (Manila): Also known as the National Shrine of Saint Michael and the Archangels, it is located in the San Miguel district of Manila. Founded in the 17th century by the Jesuits, it is located near Malaca ang Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines.
San Miguel Arcangel Church (Argao, Cebu): Founded in 1703, this Baroque church is known for its intricate decorations and for being declared a National Historical Landmark.
San Miguel Arcangel Church (San Miguel, Bulacan): Built in 1725, it has a Baroque style with a unique bell tower above the fa ade.
The festivities dedicated to St Michael, celebrated on 29 September, are significant events that combine Catholic liturgies with local cultural traditions.
Presence of St Michael in India
In India, devotion to St Michael is manifested in several regions, the result of European missionary work:
St. Michael's Church (Mumbai): Located in the Mahim district, it is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the city, founded in 1534 by the Franciscans. It is famous for its Wednesday novenas, which attract thousands of worshippers of different religions.
St. Michael's Shrine (Pedavadlapudi, Andhra Pradesh): Founded in 1940, this church celebrated 80 years of service in 2023 with the dedication of a new shrine by the Apostolic Nuncio in India.
St. Michael's and All Angels' Church (Oorgaum, Kolar Gold Fields): Built in 1905 in the Victorian style, it originally served the British Anglican community.
Micael Sites in the Pacific Islands
In the Pacific islands, the presence of churches dedicated to St Michael testifies to the influence of the Catholic missions:
St. Michael's Cathedral (Rikitea, Gambier Islands, French Polynesia): Built between 1839 and 1848 by missionaries of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, it is the largest church in the South Pacific, known for its mother-of-pearl decorations and the inscription 'Quis ut Deus' above the entrance.
St. Michael the Archangel Church (Kailua-Kona, Hawaii): Located on the Big Island, this church serves the local Catholic community and the many visitors to the island.
Multimedia content
Images
Philippines - San Miguel Church (Manila)
India - St. Michael's Church (Mahim, Mumbai)
Video
National Shrine of Saint Michael and the Archangels
St. Michael's Church Mahim Mumbai - A Historic Gem
Sources and references
San Miguel Church (Manila) - Wikipedia
St. Michael's Church (Mumbai) - TripadvisorTripadvisor
St. Michael's Cathedral (Rikitea) - Tahiti TourismeTahiti Tourisme