We’ve always meant to visit the Mont, but despite visiting France many times over five decades we’ve never made it that far! That changes in 2023, with our upcoming Barcelona to Berlin trip!
We’re going to be in Normandy for the first time, and we are looking forward to exploring historical sights that predate the obvious, the WW II memorials. Places like Mont Saint-Michel and the Museum of the Bayeux Tapestry should give us some insight into the history of the region, and of course we’re looking forward to French wine and Normandy cider!
Traditionally, travellers embarking upon a journey would consult an oracle to ensure that auspices for the trip were favourable. Saving ourselves another trip to Delphi, we consulted a modern day oracle, Google’s Bard (after using a VPN to meet the country requirement!). Bard had no opinion about the auspices, but offered up a ton of facts and figures (below). One thing that Bard revealed is that Mont Saint-Michel was originally built in classic Romanesque style. That should tie in nicely with our stop in Andorra where we’ll do a DIY tour of their famed Romanesque churches (as suggested by Culture Trip).
Clearly, bard is a bit mixed up about admission prices, or what “children” are, or both. Wonder what else Bard got wrong?
Mont Saint-Michel is a tidal island located in Normandy, France. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is home to a Benedictine abbey, which was founded in the 8th century. The abbey is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe.
The history of Mont Saint-Michel is long and complex. The island was first inhabited by monks in the 8th century. The monks built a small church on the island, which soon became a popular pilgrimage site. In the 11th century, the monks began construction on a larger abbey. The abbey was completed in the 13th century, and it quickly became one of the most important religious centres in Europe.
The abbey was a major centre of learning and culture during the Middle Ages. The monks at the abbey were responsible for copying and preserving manuscripts, and they also played an important role in the development of medieval art and architecture. The abbey was also a major centre of pilgrimage, and it attracted visitors from all over Europe.
The abbey suffered a decline in the 16th century, when the Protestant Reformation led to a decline in the Catholic Church’s power. The abbey was closed in the 18th century, and it fell into disrepair. However, the abbey was restored in the 19th century, and it is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
Mont Saint-Michel is a fascinating place to visit. The island is a beautiful and historic site, and the abbey is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. If you are interested in history, art, or architecture, then Mont Saint-Michel is a must-see destination.
Here are some tips for visiting Mont Saint-Michel:
- The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild.
- If you are driving to Mont Saint-Michel, be sure to arrive early, as the parking lot fills up quickly.
- There is a shuttle bus that runs from the parking lot to the island.
- The abbey is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, from April to September, and from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, from October to March.
- Admission to the abbey is €12 for adults, €9 for children, and free for children under 18.
- There are a variety of restaurants and shops on the island.
- Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the abbey and the island.
Mont Saint-Michel is a truly unique and unforgettable place. It is a place where history, art, and architecture come together to create a truly magical experience.
Google Bard