Michael, salutis signifer: En torno a la iconografía de san Miguel de Excelsis [Michael, salutis signifer: In regard to the iconography of San Miguel de Excelsis]

Abstract

San Miguel de Excelsis or Aralar is one of the main sanctuaries in the history and popular faith of Navarra. This article focuses on the titular image of the sanctuary or, more precisely, on the iconography within it: Saint Michael wears here the liturgical ornaments and also shows his warrior attributes -helmet and breastplate-, but the most interesting thing about this representation is that he does not wield human weapons, instead, with his arms raised, he holds the cross above his head. The author's intention is to trace the sources of inspiration for such a unique way of representing the archangel whilst highlighting the path by which he took root in Navarre.