Mont St. Michel -

Posted Wednesday, July 22, 2009 - Photos taken Tuesday.

Mont St. Michel (Michelle) once an island approximately 3 miles from land is now surrounded mainly by land and accessible by a causeway. According to legend, the monastery atop the island was the result of a vision of St. Michael the Archangle to the Bishop of Avranches in the 8th century.

The monastery is simple and austere but an architectural wonder. It was protected during the 100 Years War by the steep stone walls that surround it. It has become very commercialized, as one must wade through multiple souvenir shops before arriving at the multitude of steps to enter the Abbey.

Mont St. Michel

Drawbridge used in earlier times to protect the Monastery.

Souvenir shops.

Arched ceilings with tall columns. The rooms were heated by fireplaces.

Cemetery tucked behind the chapel - notice how close together the graves are. Most of the cemeteries in France appear to be this way.

I could imagine the monks as they walked, in silence, through these cloistered walkways.

Great hall where the monks came to warm themselves, rest and reflect.

Bob and Ginny - leaving Mont. St. Michel.