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Monte Sant'Angelo Shrine: Staircase and Bull Door

Staircase and Bull Door

Bottom of the staircase, dating from the 13th century during the Angevin era. It has 86 steps total, divided into five flights with four landings. At the base is the "bull door," so-named for the damaged fresco that depics the episode of the bull from the first apparition. It was restored in 1999 after being hidden under a crucifix for centuries. Below the fresco is a tablet with a Latin inscription reading: "This is the world famous crypt of St. Michael the Archangel, where he deigned to appear to men. Oh, pilgrim, prostrate yourself to the ground and revere these stones because this place is holy." Shrine of St. Michael the Archangel, Monte Sant'Angelo, Puglia, Italy. The Archangel Michael is said to have appeared here in 490, 492 and 1656.

Credit: Holly Hayes