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Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey: A Medieval Marvel

Explore a medieval abbey perched on a tidal island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture.

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Crowning a rocky islet off the coast of Normandy, France, Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey is a stunning architectural achievement and a historic Benedictine monastery. With its origins dating back to the 8th century, the abbey has evolved through the centuries, serving as a fortress, a prison, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site welcoming millions of visitors each year.

A brief summary to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a considerable walk from the parking area to the abbey entrance, as well as many steps within the abbey itself.
  • Check the tide times before your visit, as the Mont-Saint-Michel bay has some of the highest tides in Europe, and the surrounding landscape transforms dramatically.
  • Download your tickets to your phone before entering Mont-Saint-Michel, as the internet connection can be unreliable.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Mont Saint-Michel parking area, follow the well-marked pedestrian path towards the Mont. The walk to the entrance takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the number of visitors. This scenic route allows you to appreciate the unique landscape of the bay. Note that the path is mostly flat but can be crowded during peak season. There is no cost for walking to the Mont.

  • Public Transport

    From the Mont Saint-Michel parking area, a free shuttle bus service, 'Le Passeur,' is available to transport visitors to the foot of Mont Saint-Michel. The shuttle runs frequently, approximately every 15 minutes, from 7:30 AM to midnight. The journey takes around 12 minutes, dropping you off 400 meters from the entrance. This is a convenient option for those who prefer not to walk or have mobility issues.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Pontorson train station to Mont Saint-Michel. A taxi ride will cost approximately €20-30 and take around 15-20 minutes. From the taxi drop-off point, you can walk or take the free shuttle 'Le Passeur' to the entrance of the Mont.

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Discover more about Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Perched atop a granite islet in the bay where Normandy and Brittany meet, Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey stands as a testament to medieval ingenuity and spiritual devotion. The abbey's story began in 708 AD when, according to legend, Archangel Michael appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches, instructing him to build a sanctuary on Mont-Tombe. This marked the beginning of what would become one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Christian world. Over the centuries, the abbey has undergone numerous transformations. In the 10th century, Benedictine monks established a community on the mount, initiating the construction of a Romanesque abbey church. The 13th century saw the addition of 'La Merveille' (The Marvel), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture comprising two three-story buildings. During the Hundred Years' War, the abbey was fortified, successfully withstanding an English siege and becoming a symbol of French resistance. During the French Revolution, the abbey was secularized and used as a prison until 1863. Notable figures like Armand Barbès and Auguste Blanqui were held within its walls. In 1874, it was declared a historic monument, initiating extensive restoration efforts. Today, managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux, the abbey is open to the public year-round. Visitors can explore the abbey church, chapels, crypts, refectory, cloister, and scriptorium, gaining insight into the daily lives of the monks and the history of this extraordinary site. The abbey also hosts varied cultural programs, including concerts, exhibitions and contemporary shows.

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