The Glorious History of Mont Saint Michel
A brief history of the iconic abbey in Normandy, France
High on a 264-foot rock off the Atlantic coast, where Normandy meets Brittany, rises the UNESCO-listed Mont Saint Michel. One of Europe’s most visited sites, the abbey is famed for dramatic tides that can completely surround it at high tide, then recede to reveal expansive marshes at low tide.
Extraordinary Tides and Salt-Marsh Sheep
During high tides, rising waters isolate the abbey as if on an island. At low tide, the coastline gives way to grazing grounds for a unique herd of sheep that feed on saltwater plants. Tides can rush in unexpectedly, once regularly trapping cars in the old days, before a tram system and updated parking were built.
Visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris
Looking to explore Mont Saint Michel without the hassle? Book our Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris via train. Stops include a visit to the medieval town of Dinan, the walled city of St. Malo, and of course, the iconic abbey. We’ve been offering this tour since 2003, and it remains one of our most popular excursions—we look forward to seeing you there!
Pilgrimages, Copyists, and Architectural Phases
The abbey’s origins trace back to the 8th century, when—legend says—Archangel Michael appeared in the dreams of Aubert, Bishop of Avranches. Spurred by these visions, Aubert founded a small church on Mont Tombe (as it was then called) in 1144. Over the centuries, Mont Saint Michel drew monks and pilgrims from across Europe, surviving ownership changes during the Hundred Years’ War. Renowned for their meticulous copying skills, the abbey’s resident monks became “medieval Xerox machines,” painstakingly transcribing texts before printing presses existed.
Evolving Styles and Temporary Decline
During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Romanesque Choir underwent a Gothic-style makeover. A gradual loosening of monastic discipline led to the monks’ dispersal in the 17th century—Mont Saint Michel even served briefly as a prison afterward. In 1874, the French government took over the site to ensure its preservation. Later, in 1897, Emmanuel Fremiet’s golden statue of Saint Michael was added to the spire.
Mont Saint Michel Today
Monks have since returned, and visitors can join them for daily Mass at 12:15 p.m. Mont Saint Michel remains a highlight of Normandy, easily accessible from Paris via train or car. Whether you come to witness the tides, admire the medieval fortifications, or delve into centuries of religious and architectural history, Mont Saint Michel continues to captivate travelers from all over the world.
Enjoy a short video tour of Mont Saint Michel, presented by our friends at Rick Steves:
Visit UNESCO for more historical information about Mont Saint Michel.