The church is located in the town of Monte Sant’Angelo. The site was a popular destination for pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem. There, en route to the Holy Land, it is said that around the year 490 the Archangel Michael appeared several times to the local bishop near the cave, and instructed that the cave be dedicated to Christian worship—promising in return protection against pagan invaders. Among the pilgrims who visited the church were popes, saints, emperors, kings, and princes. Francis of Assisi also visited and carved in the rock the cross in the shape of a “T” (Tau).

According to legend, to reach the spot where the angel appeared one must enter the church, descend the staircase, and go through the gate into the cave, where the footprint attributed to the Archangel Michael is found. As part of the tradition, visitors also leave an outline of their foot or hand there with a request or message to the angel.

Adjacent to the church stands a 13th-century octagonal tower.