Spread of the cult in time and space
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1.3 Spread of the cult in time and space
1.3.1.1 - First attestations in the Byzantine and Syriac worlds
The cult of St Michael has deep roots in the Christian East, especially in the Greek- and Syriac-speaking areas. The earliest written evidence dates back to the 4th century, but it is likely that devotional practices existed in popular form even earlier.
In Syriac tradition, St Michael was considered:
• Heavenly physician (in analogy with healing water cults);
• Intercessor and protector of the people;
• Figure connected to cosmic forces and natural phenomena, in continuity with pre-Christian cults of winged beings.
In some ancient Syriac inscriptions, Michael appears as the recipient of votive dedications linked to healings and protection on journeys.
1.3.1.2 - The Michaelion of Constantinople and Anatolian Sanctuaries
The oldest and most important Michaelic foundation in the Byzantine Empire was the Michaelion, built by Constantine the Great in the 4th century at Sosthenion on the European shore of the Bosporus.
Features:
• It stood over an ancient pagan temple (possibly dedicated to a winged god);
• It became a centre of pilgrimage, known for miraculous healings;
• It was decorated with mosaics and icons, which became a model for the iconographic representation of the Archangel
In addition to Michaelion, numerous smaller sanctuaries arose in:
• Phrygia, in Chonai (Colosse);
• Bithynia;
• Cilicia and Galatia, where the Archangel was worshipped near springs and healing fountains.
1.3.1.3 - Liturgical role in the Eastern Roman Empire
In the Byzantine context, St Michael acquired a central position in the Eastern liturgy, with:
• Dedicated feasts (especially 8 November, Synaxis of the Archangels);
• Hymns and prayers in the Triodes and Menaia (Greek liturgical books);
• Frequent mention in the canons of the saints and in the angelic intercessions during the Divine Liturgy.
It was considered:
• The commander of the heavenly hosts (Ἀρχιστράτηγος Μιχαήλ);
• Defender of the Orthodox faith during heresies and iconoclastic wars;
• Protector of the Empire itself, venerated in a similar way to a military saint.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
• Byzantine icon of St Michael Archangel with Greek inscriptions
Video
Sources and references
St Michael's Way - Eastern Origins of the Cult
1.3.2 - Introduction and development of the cult in the West
1.3.2.1 - The cult of St. Michael in Late Antiquity (4th-6th century)
The cult of St Michael spread in the West between the 4th and 6th centuries, initially through the influence of the Byzantine Empire. In Italy, the first attestations date back to the 5th century, with the construction of churches dedicated to the Archangel, often in elevated places or caves, symbols of protection and spirituality. The figure of Michael was associated with that of a celestial warrior, defender of the faith and guide of souls, characteristics that favoured his adoption in a cultural context still permeated by pagan elements.
1.3.2.2 - Monte Sant'Angelo and the apparitions on the Gargano
The Sanctuary of St Michael the Archangel in Monte Sant'Angelo, Apulia, is one of the oldest sites of micaelic cult in the West. According to tradition, the Archangel appeared here between 490 and 493 AD, as narrated in the Liber de apparitione Sancti Michaelis in Monte Gargano. The apparitions include the episode of the bull, the victory against invaders, the consecration of the grotto and the intervention during a plague in 1656 . The sanctuary became a pilgrimage destination and a symbol of the fight against evil.
1.3.2.3 - Reception of the cult by the Lombards
After their conversion to Catholicism, the Lombards adopted the cult of St Michael, identifying him with the warrior virtues of the Germanic god Odin. The Gargano sanctuary became a spiritual centre for the Lombard people, who dedicated numerous churches to him and considered him their national patron saint. King Cunipertus (688-700) introduced the effigy of the Archangel into coinage, while Queen Theodolinda promoted the construction of churches dedicated to him . The cult spread along pilgrimage routes, influencing the religious architecture and spirituality of the time.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
• Inside the grotto of the Sanctuary of Monte Sant'Angelo
• Façade of the Sanctuary of St Michael Archangel
• Lombard iconography of St Michael - depiction inspired by the Germanic cult
Video
• "St Michael Archangel and the Gargano Sanctuary'.
• "The Cult of St Michael among the Lombards" - Historical and Cultural Insight
Sources and references
Shrine of St Michael Archangel - WikipediaWikipedia, the free encyclopaedia
1.3.3 - St Michael in the early Middle Ages
1.3.3.1 - The Sacra di San Michele and Alpine Sanctuaries
The Sacra di San Michele, located on Mount Pirchiriano at the entrance to the Susa Valley, was founded between 983 and 987 by the French nobleman Hugh of Montboissier. This impressive architectural complex became an important spiritual and cultural centre, even inspiring the novel The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco. Its strategic location along the Via Francigena made it a key stop for pilgrims on their way to Rome.
1.3.3.2 - Worship along pilgrimage routes
During the early Middle Ages, the cult of St. Michael spread along the main European pilgrimage routes, such as the Via Francigena and the Via dell'Angelo. These roads connected important Michaelic shrines, including:
• Monte Sant'Angelo on the Gargano (Italy)
• Sacra di San Michele in Val di Susa (Italy)
• Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy (France)
• St Michael's Mount in Cornwall (England)
• Skellig Michael in Ireland
These shrines were often located in elevated or isolated places, symbolising the struggle between good and evil and offering pilgrims places for reflection and prayer.
1.3.3 - Spread in the Frankish, British and Iberian regions
The cult of St Michael took deep root in the Frankish, British and Iberian regions:
• France: In addition to the famous Mont Saint-Michel, numerous churches and monasteries were dedicated to the Archangel, often located on hills or promontories.
• England: Worship spread with the construction of shrines such as St Michael's Mount in Cornwall, which became an important centre of pilgrimage.
• Iberian Peninsula: In Spain and Portugal, St Michael was venerated as the protector of Christian communities, with churches being built and legends related to the Archangel spreading.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
• Sacra di San Michele - Aerial view
• Map of the Sacred Line of Micael shrines in Europe
• Mont Saint-Michel - Panoramic Photography
Video
Sources and references
Sacra di San Michele - Wikipedia
The Sacra di San Michele and its legends - Medieval Festival
The cult of St Michael and the pilgrims' long journey to the Holy Land - Fremondoweb
St Michael: an ancient cult, also widespread in Lunigiana - Il Corriere Apuano
1.3.4 - St Michael in the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance
1.3.4.1 - The Role in Cities and Brotherhoods
In the late Middle Ages, St Michael Archangel became a central figure in urban religious life. Numerous confraternities sprang up under his protection, such as the Confraternity of St. Michael Archangel of Bitonto, founded in 1718, which played a significant role in the spiritual and social life of the community. These confraternities were often involved in charity work, processions and other religious activities, reinforcing the link between the micaelico cult and daily town life.
1.3.4.2 - Integration into civic and military worship
During the Renaissance, St Michael was integrated into civic and military worship. He was proclaimed patron of several cities and became a symbol of protection for the city militia. His figure was often invoked during battles and crises, symbolising the fight against evil and the defence of justice. In France, for example, the Order of St. Michael was established in 1469, a chivalric order that reflected the importance of the Archangel in the military and political spheres.
1.3.4.3 - Iconographic and liturgical transformations
The iconography of St Michael underwent significant transformations during the Renaissance. Artists such as Guido Reni and Luca Giordano depicted him as a young winged warrior, armed with a sword, in the act of defeating the devil. These depictions emphasised his strength and his role as defender of the faith. At the same time, the liturgy was enriched with new prayers and celebrations in his honour, consolidating his position in Christian worship.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
• St. Michael the Archangel defeats the devil - Luca Giordano (1666)
• Saint Michael Archangel - Guido Reni (1636), Rome
• Mosaic Iconography - Byzantine Mosaic of St. Michael
Video
• St Michael Archangel: history and cult - Full documentary (TV2000)
• The Iconography of St Michael in the Renaissance - Lecture on Art and Spirituality
Sources and references
History of the Brotherhood of St Michael Archangel of Bitonto
Archangel Michael in Humanism and the Renaissance - St Michael's Path
1.3.5 - Global expansion between the modern age and missions
1.3.5.1 - Cult presence in Latin America, Africa and Asia
During the modern era, the cult of St Michael the Archangel spread widely in colonised territories, thanks to the work of Christian missionaries.
• Latin America: In Brazil, the Jesuit mission of São Miguel das Missões, founded in 1632, is a significant example of this spread. The mission's Baroque church, now a UNESCO heritage site, bears witness to the importance attributed to the Archangel in the Christianisation of the indigenous Guaraní people.
• Africa and Asia: The cult also took root in several African and Asian regions, where St Michael was often associated with protection against evil forces. In some communities, the Archangel was worshipped as a symbol of justice and spiritual defence, integrating with local traditions.
1.3.5.2 - Military patron saints and colonial devotions
St Michael is traditionally considered the patron saint of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies. In Italy, he is the patron saint of the Polizia di Stato, which celebrates him on 29 September with official ceremonies.
During the colonial period, the Archangel was often invoked as protector of the troops and symbol of divine justice, reinforcing his role as defender against evil.
1.3.5.3 - St Michael in contemporary popular devotion
Today, devotion to Saint Michael the Archangel remains alive in many communities. In Italy, many cities and towns celebrate him with patronal feasts, processions and prayers. For example, in Cerami, Sicily, there are celebrations in his honour that involve the entire community. The prayer to St Michael, composed by Pope Leo XIII, is still recited by many believers to invoke his protection.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
• Saint Michael Archangel - Luca Giordano (1666)
• Statue of St. Michael Archangel at the State Police (Italy)
• Mission Ruins of São Miguel das Missões - Brazil (UNESCO)
Video
• Prayer to St Michael Archangel - recited and meditated version
• "Miraculous night prayer to St Michael the Archangel" - YouTube
Sources and references
São Miguel das Missões - WikipediaWikipedia, the free encyclopaedia
1.3.6 - The Micaelic 'Sacred Line
1.3.6.1 - Geographical and symbolic analysis of the line of seven shrines
The so-called 'Sacred Line of St. Michael' is a geographical alignment connecting seven shrines dedicated to the Archangel Michael, stretching from Ireland to Israel. The shrines, arranged along a straight line, are:
1. Skellig Michael (Ireland)
2. St Michael's Mount (Cornwall, United Kingdom)
3. Mont Saint-Michel (Normandy, France)
4. Sacra di San Michele (Val di Susa, Italy)
5. Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo (Monte Sant'Angelo, Italy)
6. Panormitis Monastery (Simi Island, Greece)
7. Stella Maris Monastery (Mount Carmel, Israel)
This alignment inspired the creation of the Saint Michael's Path, a pilgrimage itinerary that spiritually and culturally links these significant places.
1.3.6.2 - Legends and esoteric interpretations
The 'Sacred Line' is shrouded in numerous legends and esoteric interpretations. According to one tradition, the alignment would represent the sword stroke with which St Michael drove Satan out of Paradise. Some scholars have suggested that the line reflects the zodiacal axis from Virgo to Pisces, symbolising the transition from ancestral cults to the new Christian religion. Still others see in it an initiatory path reflecting the cerebro-spinal axis of the human anatomy, with the seven shrines corresponding to the seven chakras.
1.3.6.3 - Influence on the spirituality of pilgrimages
The 'Sacred Line' has had a significant impact on the spirituality of Christian pilgrimages. The shrines along this line have become important pilgrimage destinations, offering the faithful a spiritual path across Europe and the Mediterranean. The Saint Michael's Path, in particular, has helped to strengthen the link between sacred places dedicated to the Archangel and popular devotion.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
• Map of the Micaelic Sacred Line - the seven aligned shrines
• Sacra di San Michele - Panoramic view from the Susa Valley
• Mont Saint-Michel - Iconic site in Normandy
• Panormitis Monastery - Simi Island, Greece
Video
• "The Sacred Line of San Michele" - Historical-esoteric documentary
• "The Way of St Michael" - Spiritual presentation of the route
Sources and references
1.3.7 - Chronological map of the cult's spread
• Synoptic table of major events, shrines and historical phases
• Linking archaeological data and textual sources
1.3.7.1 - Synoptic table of major events, sanctuaries and historical phases
Historic period: 4th century A.D.
Event/Phase: Foundation of the Michaelion
Location/Sanctuary: Sosthenion, near Constantinople (Turkey)
Historical and cultural notes: First great micaelic shrine in the East, built by Constantine
Historic period: 5th century
Event/Phase: First traces of the cult in the West
Location/Sanctuary: Southern Italy
Historical and cultural background: Beginning of the Christianisation of the caves with dedication to Michael
Historical period: 490-493
Event/Phase: Apparitions on Mount Gargano
Location/Sanctuary: Monte Sant'Angelo (Apulia, Italy)
Historical and cultural notes: Foundation of the Sanctuary; origin of the Gargano pilgrimage
Historic period: 6th-8th centuries
Event/Phase: Spread through the Lombard kingdoms
Location/Sanctuary: Lombardy, Tuscany, Southern Italy
Historical and cultural notes: Michael likened to the Germanic god Wotan; symbol of power and protection
Historic period: 708
Event/Phase: Founding of Mont Saint-Michel
Location/Sanctuary: Normandy (France)
Historical and cultural background: Europe's most famous shrine dedicated to the Archangel
Historic period: 10th cent.
Event/Phase: Sacra di San Michele
Location/Sanctuary: Val di Susa (Piedmont, Italy)
Historical and cultural notes: Central node of the "Sacred Line", beginning of the Alpine cult
Historic period: Modern age
Event/Phase: Spread in colonial territories
Location/Sanctuary: Brazil, Philippines, sub-Saharan Africa
Historical and cultural background: Jesuit and Franciscan missions bring the cult to the new worlds
Historic period: 19th-20th centuries
Event/Phase: Revival of the Micael pilgrimage
Location/Sanctuary: Europe and the Mediterranean
Historical and cultural background: Cultural and spiritual rediscovery of the "Sacred Line" and the Micaelic Way
1.3.7.2 - Linking archaeological data and textual sources
The Micael cult is one of the few ancient Christian cults documented by:
• textual sources (hagiographies, chronicles, letters, papal bulls);
• archaeological data (remains of sacred buildings, epigraphs, votive artefacts);
• iconographic sources (frescoes, mosaics, icons, sculptures).
Significant examples:
• The sources of the Liber de apparitione Sancti Michaelis match the inscriptions of the
Gargano Sanctuary.
• The remains of the Michaelion at Sosthenion are confirmed by imperial accounts and late antique ecclesiastical sources.
• Mont Saint-Michel is mentioned in acts of the Frankish kings and monastic registers from the 9th century, as well as in numerous archaeological studies.
Recommended multimedia content
Images
Video
Sources and references
St Michael's Path - Official site
In the Footsteps of St Michael - Portal of studies and walks