Today, Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most visited tourist destinations, attracting over three million visitors annually. It remains a site of religious pilgrimage, tourist curiosity, and historical education. Modern Access and Conservation Challenges Due to the immense number of visitors and the unique tidal environment, managing the sit

By the late medieval period and into the Renaissance, Mont Saint-Michel’s religious influence waned. The abbey was subject to various political and religious upheavals, including the French Wars of Religion in the 16th century. The Abbey as a Prison During the French Revolution, many religious institutions were closed or repurposed. Mont Saint-

The mount’s natural fortifications and difficult access made it a strategic military site through the centuries. Located near the border of Normandy and Brittany, it was a prized stronghold in times of conflict. The Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453) Mont Saint-Michel gained legendary status during the Hundred Years’ War between England and F

By the 10th century, Mont Saint-Michel had become a Benedictine abbey and a pilgrimage destination. Monks from the Benedictine order settled on the mount, expanding the religious buildings to accommodate pilgrims who braved dangerous tides and quicksand to visit the shrine. Architectural Growth The abbey’s architectural evolution reflects the s