Mont Saint Michel: 155 Meters Above The Sea, Gothic Spires Soaring #normandy #france #europe

Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most fascinating heritage sites in Europe, rich in history and full of wonder.
It is a tidal island and mainland commune in Normandy, France.
The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is an amazing feat of construction, with its Gothic spires soaring 155 meters above the sea.
The abbey is perched on the highest point of the rocky islet in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, while the island's medieval village is surrounded by ancient defense walls.
Legend has it that Archbishop Aubert of Avranches founded an abbey here in year, 708 after the Archangel Michael appeared to him in a vision, making this an important place of pilgrimage.
It takes about 3.5 hours to drive from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel or about the same amount of time by public transportation.
The loftiest part of the monument, known as "La Merveille" ("The Marvel"), is a masterpiece of medieval art.
To arrive at the abbey, visitors and pilgrims must begin at the old gates, walk through the village and ascend 200 meters.
Then there are 350 steps up the "Grande Staircase” to reach the entrance of the abbey.
The lowest floor has peaceful gardens and a spacious hall called the "Aumônerie," which was a dormitory for pilgrims in the 13th century.
On the middle floor is the vaulted "Knights' Hall”, where noble knights were received, and the "Crypt of Large Pilars”.
The most magnificent area of the abbey (La Merveille) is on the second floor: the Cloisters, Refectory, and the Abbey Church.
Designed to inspire a sense of tranquility, the Cloisters feature, 220 graceful granite columns in double alternating rows.
Ramparts Tourists can take a walk around the "Chemin des Remparts" (Ramparts Pathway) to enjoy the scenic views.
Grand Rue This charming street is lined by tightly packed stone houses of the 15th and 16th centuries, which now are occupied by souvenir shops, snack bars, cafés, restaurants, and hotels.
Many pilgrims make their spiritual journey at the end of September on Saint Michael's Day, which celebrates the Archangel Michael.
On September 29th (Saint Michael's Day), the Abbey Church holds morning prayers and allows visitors to experience an enchanting medieval realm without the tourist crowds.