MONT-SAINT-MICHEL ABBEY

It’s impossible not to visit this emblematic site. Atop the rock of Mont-Saint-Michel, the abbey hoists the spire of its abbey church 150 m above sea level, overlooked by the archangel St. Michael, the true symbol of Mont. The abbey was founded in the early Middle Ages, when Bishop Aubert received three apparitions from the archangel. With its incomparable architectural wealth, it presents a complete panorama of architectural marvels from the ^10th to the ^15th century, with builders creating edifices in Carolingian, Romanesque, Gothic and Flamboyant styles, depending on the period. It includes a whole series of crypts and exceptional buildings, which are presented on a tour of some twenty rooms - described in this guide: refectory, church, marvels, abbey staircase, chaplaincy, guards’ room, knights’ room, gardens, guest rooms, large pillars crypt. Also not to be missed is the cloister, a veritable green setting between sky and sea, where you can admire the view over the bay. After extensive restoration work, the cloister, its columns and stained glass windows have been restored to their former glory. In July and August, the abbey is decked out in lights for an evening stroll away from the crowds. And don’t forget that the abbey can be visited in a variety of ways: lecture tours, self-guided tours, guided tours, audio-guided tours and themed tours. If possible, try to come early to avoid the crowds.