What is the history of Mont Saint Michel?
The island was originally called Mont-Tombe but became known as Mont-Saint-Michel in the 8th century, when St. Aubert, bishop of Avranches, built an oratory there after having a vision of the archangel St. Michael. It rapidly became a pilgrimage centre, and in 966 a Benedictine abbey was built there.
Why is Mont Saint Michel important to France?
Positioned on the border between Normandy and Brittany, Mont-Saint-Michel was both a place of passage and a fortress for the Duchy of Normandy. From the 14th century onwards, the successive conflicts of the Hundred Years War between France and England required new, powerful fortifications to be erected.
Why did they build Mont Saint Michel?
Originally called Mont Tombe, this commune has an interesting origin story. After having a vision of the archangel St. Michael, Saint-Aubert, Bishop of Avranches, created Mont Saint Michel in 708. He decided to build an oratory in honour of the divine persona after this third and final vision.
Do people live inside Mont Saint-Michel?
It’s actually a village with residents It’s important to keep in mind upon visiting that the Mont Saint-Michel isn’t a fabricated tourist destination and is home to 44 inhabitants, including the monks and nuns that reside in the Abbey.
Is Mont Saint-Michel Breton or Norman?
Historically, Mont Saint-Michel was the Norman counterpart of St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall, UK, which was given to the Benedictines, religious order of Mont-Saint-Michel, by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century. The two mounts share the same tidal island characteristics and the same conical shape, though St Michael’s Mount is much smaller.
Who built Mont St Michel?
The long history of Mont-Saint-Michel began in 708, when Bishop Aubert erected a first sanctuary on Mont Tombe in honour of the Archangel. These monks, under the authority of the Abbot, followed the Order of Saint Benedict, and were responsible for the growth of the new monastery.
Is Mont St Michel open?
The general area around Mont Saint Michel is open all the time, in the same way that any town or natural bay would be. So, early in the morning or after dark, you can wander around and explore the region. In fact, seeing as many tourists come just for a day trip, I think morning is the best time to see the streets of the island town.