A studied look in and around the Basilica will reveal over 300 angels. In gothic architecture, angels help to provide the pilgrim with a heavenly ambience. Angels can be seen holding up the choir loft, holding the holy water fonts, on the chandeliers, atop the pillars, on the stations of the cross, in the stained glass, in the gold trim and embellishing the walls throughout the basilica.
On the ceiling are carvings of the arch angels. Archangel Raphael is holding a fish (symbolizing his story from scripture of his healing of Tobit with fish gall) and Archangel Michael, holding a flaming sword, symbolizing his role as a warrior and his victory over Satan (from the book of Revelation in the bible).
For the next stop move to the front of the altar area.