About Mont St. Michel
In the Middle Ages some people decided to settle on the Mont Saint Michel(also known as Mount Saint Michael in English), a rock surrounded by sea and sand, to pray in total isolation to God and the Archangel Saint-Michel. This place of high worship soon began to attract pilgrims, as it was considered a duty to go on a pilgrimage. Ill people especially hoped for a miracle that would restore their health, as used to happen in the many legends surrounding the Mont. A Benedictine abbey was built here and was protected by the Dukes of Normandy. Over time, the buildings gained both in stature and singular beauty, arousing the admiration of travellers. During the Hundred Years War, the monastic community and town of Mont St. Michel, thanks to its features as a fortress, made stronger by new fortifications, resisted several attacks by the English. Because of this fortress quality certain buildings were used as state prison, a Bastille at sea. The place was left in ruin until the abbey was rediscovered by visitors and Romantic writers in the 19th century. In 1874 the Mont became a historic monument and restoration work began.In both happy and dramatic times, the Mont St. Michel spans the entire history of France, and Europe. Above all, the architecture of this labyrinth posed a challenge, requiring major technical skill and prowess to build on the steep slopes of the rock, with the constant concern to give pleasure and create surprise.
- Lucien Bély - 'Mont St. Michel'
Amazon link
I own the following book myself and I think it's rather good. The link opens in a new window.» The Mont Saint-Michel