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This project has been funded with support from the European Commission.
This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

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St Michael's Mount

St Michael's Mount

St Michael's Mount Marazion, Cornwall, TR17 OH

RELIGIONS New age

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELIGIOUS SITE

DESCRIPTION
From as far back as 495AD, tales tell of seafarers lured by mermaids onto the rocks, or guided to safety by an apparition of St Michael. The patron saint of fishermen, it’s said the archangel St Michael appeared on the western side of the island – where the entrance to the castle is today – to ward fishermen from certain peril. It’s a legend which has brought pilgrims, monks and people of faith to the island ever since, to pray, to praise and to celebrate.
HISTORICAL RELEVANCE
From Neolithic man winding his way through towering woodland to watch livestock roam and Bronze age settlers through the tin miners St Michael's Mount has evolved through the centuries. By the time of the Norman conquest in 1066, St Michael's Mount had come into the possession of the monks of its sister isle, Mont St Michel in Normandy. In the 12th century it was their hands that built the church and priory that still lie at the heart of the castle today. From 1193 when the Mount was seized by Henry La Pomeray who disguised his men as pilgrims, through the Wars of the Roses in 1473 when the Mount was held by the Earl of Oxford, to the Civil War, when Royalists valiantly held back the forces of Oliver Cromwell – the Mount has weathered many times of battle.
INTER-RELIGIOUS RELEVANCE
The Mount is synonymous with myth and mystery and four miracles said to have happened here during 1262 and 1263 only added to the religious magnetism that drew pilgrims from far and wide. A pilgrim’s path uncovered in the 1950s is now the main route to the castle.
RELIGIOUS INFLUENCE
Whether its religious beliefs, spiritual energies, or simply the opportunity to take a breath and reflect, people of all sorts are drawn to pause and ponder at The Mount. By the side of the ancient church, the highest point of the Mount’s bedrock is clearly seen. Many believe that a truly romantic wish made touching this stone will be granted, especially before a proposal to marry.
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This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.