Last Updated on September 1, 2022 by Left Lane
The history of Mont Saint Michel begin in 708 A.D. When according to Catholic Legend, the Bishop of Avranches, Saint Aubert had a vision. In which the Archangel Michael paid him a visit, in his vision the Archangel told him to oversee the construction of a chapel. On a small island near the end of the Couesnon River.
Easily share with your friends by using your favorite Social Media Button Below:
Would you rather listen to this Blog Post instead? Just CLICK HERE to listen to this article in an Audio Podcast on Spotify.
These visions supposedly didn’t end for Saint Aubert until he promised the Archangel that he would build the chapel as commissioned.
Mont Saint Michel Defenses
The unique Mont Saint Michel is a tidal island located off the coast of modern day Normandy, France. Which became a popular pilgrimage location in the early 10th Century A.D, and still remains a popular tourist destination in France to this very day.
When the Germans retreated from the area after the D-Day invasion of 1944. They made no attempt to defend the area, due to the high potential for significant damage while doing so. Even the “German Armistice Commission” recognized the historical importance of this location… Photo Credit
During the 100 year war between England, and France, which lasted from 1337 to 1453. Mont Saint Michel was never invaded as it’s natural defenses made it near impenetrable at the time.
Being naturally defended by life threatening currents from surrounding bodies of water. At low tide this Fortress island is around 1 mile from the mainland. Making it a treacherous, hike across wet sand, and a marshy landscape with the potential to be swallowed whole by unseen sinkholes in the sand.
During high tide, due to its position in the English Channel, and at the mouth of the Couesnon River. The surrounding water currents become life threateningly dangerous, and can surge with the ability to variate by almost 50’ feet in depth.
A Symbol of French Might
After Mont Saint Michel survived a 30 year long siege by the English during the 100 year war. Becoming the only part of Western France to survive the English invasion without infiltration. It became a symbol of French strength.
Visiting Mont Saint Michel
If you would like to plan your very own visit to see this little piece of French history. Which is still currently inhabited by a continuous population of around 30 people. You can use this link to book your Tickets, and purchase a guided tour by: Clicking Here
For other Tour Deal options to Mont Saint Michel, including the surrounding nearby points of interest: Click Here
If you would like more info on the history of Mount Saint Michel, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site: HERE
To read another of my articles that include the famous French Engineer behind the construction of the Eiffel Tower in France. If you want to discover what famous monument in the United States he helped build: Read Here!
