Skip to content

Mont-Saint-Michel: a Thousand-Year-Old Site

Florence Consul
By Florence Consul ·

The history of Mont-Saint-Michel hails back to the Middle Ages, and more precisely to 708; over time, the tidal island abbey became a major pilgrimage site in the West. With its construction spread over several centuries, its architecture is varied and offers different styles.

The abbey was transformed into a fortress and then a prison before being labeled a historical monument and undergoing significant renovation to attract tourists. This was of course a resounding success, as the site draws in more and more visitors every year, both French and international.

I would therefore advise you to come early—at opening time—to discover the site, if you want to try to avoid the masses of crowds that can sour the experience. If possible, it's best to spend the night on the island and to wander its streets once the daytime tourists have gone—a rare and magical experience!

More information on the website https://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/en/