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Everything to know about Mont Saint Michel Abbey
Slender spires and medieval walls and towers rise above the rocky islet of Mont Saint-Michel. Droves of tourists come each year to see the stunning ensemble that crowns the mount. This magnificent beauty is Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Normandy region of France. Often called 'The Wonder of the Western World', the abbey is a World Heritage Site. The Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, an exemplary Romanesque and Gothic style architecture, is a prominent site of medieval Christian civilization.
History of Mont Saint Michel Abbey
The Dreamy Beginnings
In the 8th century, Aubert, Bishop of Avranches (a nearby hilltop town), had a vision of the Archangel Michael. To honour the archangel, he erected a small chapel at Mont Saint Michel island. By 966, Benedictine monks settled there. The Benedictine Mont Saint Michel Abbey flourished, becoming a centre of religious and cultural activity. A large number of pilgrims- including Kings of France and England, visited it over centuries. As a hub of medieval culture, Saint Mont Michel produced and stored manuscripts. It flourished to become an important pilgrimage site for Christians, from the 8th to the 18th century.
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The French Restoration
Thick walls and defensive towers flanked the mount towards the 14th century. This fortification defended Mont Saint-Michel Abbey from sieges by the British army for 30 years. But by the 18th century, the administrator abbot deserted the monastery. The abbey lost its religious and military significance. The Church became a property of the state after the French Revolution in the 18th century. During its years as a prison, the monument was severely dilapidated. In 1874, the abbey was classified as a historical monument and restored to its former glory after a long restoration process!
Mont Saint Michel FactsInside Mont Saint Michel Abbey
From exploring the medieval village to walking along the ramparts, there is a lot to do and see inside Saint Mont Michel. Grab a meal or some light snacks at one of the restaurants overlooking the bay, pick a souvenir or visit one of the four museums in the village to learn a detailed account of the 1,300 years of the island. Here are the top highlights that you should not miss.
Merveille building
The Merveille is the Gothic part of the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey. The monks lived here. The three-layered levels that tower to 35 meters consist of the cellar on the ground floor, the knight's room and the Hosts' room on the intermediate level and the cloister and the refectory on the top level. Each floor was used either for public or monastic functions.
Abbey Church
The top of the mount has the Abbey Church, a blend of different periods and styles. The altar and the surrounding aisle showcase Gothic style even though the church originally exhibited Romanesque style. You can see this in the nave and the rounded arches of the abbey.
Eglise Paroissiale Saint-Pierre
On the walkway to Abbaye du Mont Saint Michel, there is a small 15th-century church. It serves the residents. While it can be easily missed, keep an eye for it. The sculpture of Michel and the stained glasses are one of the most impressive features of this quaint church.
Cloisters
The third level of the Merveille building contains a cloister- an open space suspended between the sky and the sea. The Cloister has a beautiful garden surrounded by double rows of columns and delicately carved spandrels, made using granite, stone and marble.
The Knight’s Room
On the intermediate level of the Merville is the Knight’s room (La salle des Chevaliers). The room was also called the scriptorium. It was thought the room was used to produce manuscripts. But it was another place where monks read, studied and meditated.
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All Your Questions About Mont Saint Michel Abbey Answered
What is the history of Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Mont Saint Michel Abbey has roots in the 8th century when the Bishop of Avranches erected a chapel to honour the Archangel Michael, followed by the settlement of Benedictine monks in 966.
What are some facts about Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
The Mont Saint Michel Abbey's architectural significance spans over 1,300 years and stands on a granite inlet amidst quicksand, showcasing a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
What makes the architecture of Mont Saint Michel Abbey unique?
The 13th-century 'Marvel' or 'La Merveille' is a striking cloister in the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, featuring a three-tiered structure supported by sixteen buttresses, reflecting both Romanesque and Gothic styles.
What cultural influences can be seen in Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Mont Saint Michel Abbey, a source of inspiration for various works, has left its mark on Hollywood creations like Lord of the Rings and Pixar's animated movie Tangled.
What can I explore inside Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Inside the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, you can tour the 'Marvel' building where monks lived, the Abbey Church exhibiting a blend of styles, Saint-Pierre Church, and the mesmerizing Cloisters.
What's unique about the Abbey Church at Mont Saint Michel?
The Abbey Church displays a mix of Gothic and Romanesque styles, evident in its different sections like the altar and the nave.
Can visitors access all areas of Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Yes, visitors can explore most areas of the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, including the cloisters, churches, and the Merveille, offering a comprehensive view of its architectural and historical significance.
Are guided tours available at Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Yes, guided tours of Mont Saint Michel Abbey are available for visitors, providing insights into the historical and cultural significance of the abbey and its architectural marvels.
Can visitors attend religious services at Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Religious services are held in certain parts of the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, allowing visitors to participate in these events and experience the spiritual significance of the site.
Are there exhibitions or events hosted at Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Periodic exhibitions and cultural events take place at the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, presenting historical artefacts and enriching the visitor experience.
Is photography allowed inside Mont Saint Michel Abbey?
Yes, photography and filming is permitted within the Mont Saint Michel Abbey.