Mont Saint-Michel, a Gothic Benedictine abbey standing above a rocky islet, exposed to powerful tides and surrounded by a medieval village.
Mont Saint-Michel in France is a medieval village, situated one kilometer off the French coast in Normandy. It was built between the 11th and 16th centuries, and Mont Saint-Michel is a testament to man’s ingenuity that was inspired by God. Listed below are some facts that you probably did not know about the wonderful complex. Read on to find out some fascinating facts about the island city.
The Idea Of The Abbey Was Conceived In A Dream
Legend has it that Mont Saint-Michel was conceived in a dream by Bishop Aubert of Avranches, sometime in 708 A.D. The archangel Michael had appeared in his dream and instructed Aubert to erect an oratory on the rocky island, at Couesnonriver’s mouth. Initially, it was just a small church that was built on the islet, over the centuries it evolved into a stunning abbey that we see today.
Prominent Destination For Pilgrimage
The abbey became a significant destination for pilgrimage around the 10th century. It is second to the Santiago de Compostela in Spain, an important center of pilgrimage during the Middle Ages. Back in time, the journey to Mont Saint-Michel required a test of sacrifice, penitence, and commitment to God.
Depicts Structural Hierarchy Of Feudal Society
Mont Saint-Michel depicts the hierarchy that existed within the feudal society of Europe. On top, there is God, then the monastery and abbey; below this are the Great halls, followed by the housing and stores, and outside the walls, at the bottom lay the farmers’ and fishermen’s housing.
An Actual Village With Residents
It is essential to keep in mind that Mont Saint-Michel is not a fabricated tourist destination, it is home to 44 inhabitants, including the nuns and monks residing in the abbey.
The English Failed To Conquer Mont Saint-Michel
England had made repeated attempts to assault Mont Saint-Michel during the Hundred Years’ War but was unable to capture it owing to the impenetrable fortification of the abbey. The quicksand and high tides surrounding the abbey also resisted the English from seizing the formidable complex.
The Abbey Has A Counterpart In Cornwall, England
The monastery of Mont Saint-Michel extended its support to William the Conqueror (Duke of Normandy) in 1067, in his claim to ascend the throne of England. The Duke showed his gratitude by building a similar island on the English side of the channel, off the coast of Cornwall. This replica came to be known as St Michael’s Mount of Penzance.
So, do not forget to add Mont Saint-Michel to your bucket list!
