Tag: Archangel Michael
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Saint Michael’s Abbey and the Portal of the Zodiac
On the summit of Mount Pirchiriano, like an ancient guardian protecting the valley, stands the marvellous Saint Michael’s Abbey. It is an ancient and admirable place of faith, towering 962 metres above sea level, almost seems to reach towards the sky: it can only be accessed by a steep climb. The ascent is a metaphorical…
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Archangel Michael, the origins of the cult
A sword stroke resounds in the air; as if driven by tongues of unquenchable fire, it shakes the powers of heaven. The wings of Archangel Michael open mightily, his loose hair is shaken by an imperious quiver. Terrible in his gait, he hurls himself at the enemy with a battle cry: “Mīkā’el, who is like…
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The Sanctuary of Saint Michael on Mount Gargano
On the Gargano promontory, in northern Apulia, there is a monumental cave complex which, since ancient times, has been a sacred place of special significance, where the sublime reveals itself and one encounters the divine. According to tradition, the Archangel Michael, commander of the heavenly hosts, chose the grotto as a place of worship and…
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Narni Underground, secrets from the past
The solitary remains of ancient walls appeared to be enveloped by a grassy frame of brambles and wild shrubs, along the sheer cliff overlooking the River Nera. What lay hidden beyond those ruined stones? What secrets did the monastery of San Domenico in Narni hold, now partly abandoned after the bombings? One ordinary day in…
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The cosmic temple of St. Michael the Archangel in Perugia
A hillock stands close to the city walls, and on it there is a sacred building that reflects the harmony of the cosmos. The temple of St. Michael the Archangel in Perugia is circular, as symbol of the perfection of all creation, but also image and anticipation of the heavenly Jerusalem. There is an eschatological…