Mont St Michel

 

 

 

 

 

The first Abbey was built at Mont St Michel in the 8th Century. Since then this granite rock has become home to a plethora of churches, towers and fortifications, and is today France's biggest tourist attraction outside Paris.

The breathtaking Romanesque church at the top of the mount dates from the 12th Century, its crypt being the earlier chapel. On the north side is La Merveille (The Marvel), a monastery recognised as being one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France.

The Mount has never succumbed to invasion, thanks to its extensive network of ramparts, watch-towers, gatehouses and fortified courtyards.

The town itself has a collection of crêperies and souvenir shops, mostly aroung the grand rue, which gets packed in season.