The Mont Saint Michel Abbey
The Abbey at Mont-Saint-Michel is a Romanesque church that gives the impression of floating on water. Located on an almost impossible Island, the building is a testament to the skill and mastery of Middle Ages Norman Gothic architecture. For centuries the Island has been a Christian pilgrimage centre and a place where important manuscripts have been archived.
Legend has it that in 708, archangel Michael appeared to the Bishop of Avranches, St. Aubert, asking him to build a church on the Island in his honour. At first, St. Aubert did not comply until angel Michael burned a hole in his skull with his finger. Bishop Aubert went on to erect a sanctuary on Mont Tombe in honour of the Archangel. And in 966, Benedictine monks settled on the Island, starting a long tradition of Christian pilgrimage. The Abbey has been visited by Kings of France and England.
The Abbey sits imposingly on the Island’s mountain, approximately one kilometre off the country's north-western coast and visitors have to cross water and climb up the cliff to the monastery. It is inhabited by less than 50 people including monks and nuns, but hosts hotels for tourists that let you experience this marvellous historic site and natural wonder in many different lights and with fewer people, making it a peaceful and beautiful visit. At the foot of the mountain is a French village with tiny cafes and local shops as well as a natural reserve of thousands of birds, animals and plants you can explore.
