No, these aren’t scenes from Lord of the Rings or some AI creation, though this castle looks like it was taken straight out of a childhood fairy-tale or a fantasy novel. This is a rocky tidal island, Mont Saint Michel, located in France. Scroll down to learn more about this gorgeous and special place, as well as a video of this gorgeous place at the bottom.
The diameter of this island is almost 1 km (0.62 miles). It is elevated at 92 m (300 feet) above sea level. This island is known in Europe for its highest marine waves that reach 9 m (about 30 feet) and turn the rocky island into an island or half-an-island from time to time. Mont Saint Michel was declared a historic monument in 1874. Today it has 80 citizens including 50 monks.
Perched on a rocky islet surrounded by a mesmerizing tidal bay, this iconic structure merges history, spirituality, and natural beauty in a truly unique way. From its humble beginnings as a religious sanctuary to its present-day status as a must-visit tourist destination, Mont Saint Michel remains an enchanting place to explore.
The history of Mont Saint Michel dates back to the early 8th century when, according to legend, the Archangel Michael appeared to the Bishop of Avranches, Aubert, and instructed him to build a church on the rocky islet. The first church was completed in 709 AD, and it quickly became a popular pilgrimage site for medieval Christians. Over the centuries, Mont Saint Michel evolved into a thriving monastic community, with the construction of the Romanesque abbey in the 11th century and the expansion of the Gothic-style monastery in the 13th century.
Interestingly, Mont Saint Michel played a crucial role in the Hundred Years' War between France and England, serving as a strategic stronghold that withstood several English sieges. Following the French Revolution, the abbey was closed and used as a prison until 1863. It was declared a historic monument in 1874, and extensive restoration efforts have since been undertaken to preserve its splendor.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Mont Saint Michel is its unique location and the dramatic tidal fluctuations that define the surrounding bay. The island is accessible by a causeway during low tide, but during high tide, it becomes completely surrounded by water, creating the illusion of a floating fortress. These tidal fluctuations are among the highest in Europe, with a range of up to 14 meters. Visitors should always consult the local tide schedules before venturing to Mont Saint Michel to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The architecture of Mont Saint Michel is a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The Romanesque abbey, with its thick walls and rounded arches, is an example of the early Norman architectural style, while the more ornate Gothic portions, such as the cloister and refectory, showcase pointed arches and intricate details. The dramatic verticality of the structure, rising from the base of the island up to the spire of the abbey, is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the medieval builders.
The highlight of any visit to Mont Saint Michel is the abbey itself. Visitors can marvel at its architectural beauty, take guided tours to learn about its history, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding bay from the terraces. Don't miss the chance to visit the abbey church, cloister, and the famous Merveille, a three-story building that once housed the monks' living quarters, dining hall, and storage facilities.
Mont Saint Michel has inspired numerous artists and writers throughout history, including Victor Hugo, who described it as a "pyramid in the ocean."
Watch a video touring Mont Saint Michel
Behold, the Stunning Castles of Europe!
One of the best things to see in Europe are the old castles of stone, standing as monuments to beauty and great architecture...
Come See Mont Saint Michel as Birds Do
Enjoy this gorgeous video celebrating the unique beauty of this place.
15 Unbelievable Sights to See in Fairy Tale Germany!
In my humble opinion the Germans have far more stunning locations than any of their European neighbors. Look at these fabulous photos of the great wonderland.
Climb Aboard a Gondola For An Enchanting Venetian Ride...
Venice is an architectural and cultural treasure that is both part of Italy's and the wider world's heritage. Take a gondola ride through this beautiful city.
12 Gorgeous Churches That Reveal France's Beautiful Past
France's rich culture is not built on food, shopping or fashion, but centuries of Christian worship. These 12 magnificent churches remind us of France's gifts.
Take a Tour of the Real Castle of Downton Abbey!
Highclere Castle is the real-life Downton Abbey, and it isn't very different to how it is depicted on the popular TV show. Learn some intriguing facts.
Visit Prague, One of the Most Stunning Capitals in Europe
Why not take a stroll through this incredible, historical old town? You won't regret this!
Get Out! 10 Fascinating Places You're Not Allowed to Enter
Our wonderful planet has so many wonders to explore. However, there are some places that are strictly prohibited. Here are ten of them!
COLLECTION: 9 Incredible Festivals From Around the World
his unique interactive image is your gateway to exploring nine of the world's most vibrant and unique festivals.
Belize Is An Unspoiled Caribbean Paradise Waiting For You
It's quite often that Belize isn't thought of by people when they think of the Caribbean, but it actually should be. Here are the country's top 10 destinations.
Nantes, France: 11 Gorgeous Sights in this Unique City
Eleven beautiful and wonderful places in one of the most charming French cities - Nantes.
These Photos Could Only Be Taken in India...
India is an enormous, diverse and complex place. Some of the sites you'll see in this fascinating country are unlike those you'll see anywhere else. Take a look
You Won't Believe That These Train Routes Actually Exist!
While most train journeys around the world are typically boring and uneventful, these terrifying ones more than make up for them!
Sci Fi Tech: Only YOU Can See This Airport Flight Board!
Finally, all the time wasted on deciphering airport screen information is over! Detroit Airport recently unveiled the coolest airport invention we've seen!
Discover the Island of Capri in This Crisp 4K Video
Shot in 4K Ultra HD, this video will show you some of the most stunning sights Capri has to offer. Enjoy!
Want to Get Cheap Flight Tickets? The Answer is Here…
Find the cheapest flight tickets with these trusted tips and tricks.
Visit the Most Beautiful Monasteries in the World!
These monasteries are beautiful in both the spiritual and the architectural sense.
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
This Is Why Iceland Is a Country Like No Other
Iceland is a country full of interesting traditions and rich history - delve into this fascinating country with these 11 surprising facts!
For the True Beauty of Italy, Look to the Small Towns...
Italy is blessed with so many beautiful cities, landscapes and places. Nowhere is it more evident than in these little picturesque towns, each more stunning than the next.
Prepare to Be Charmed by These 6 Stunning Parks of Ireland
Did you know that Ireland has 6 national parks? Come explore the majestic green scenery of the Emerald Isle, each park more magnificent than the next.
What Dancing Looks Like Around the World
Dance is a universal sign of joy... but it looks quite different in every country! Check out these 20 fascinating dance styles from around the globe.
Take a Stunning 4K Aerial Tour of Ancient Transylvania
Take an aerial tour of Transylvania, one of Eastern Europe's most captivating regions. You won't regret it!
11 of the Most Affordable Beach Vacations Around the World
Looking for a budget vacation this summer? Try these affordable beach trips.
This Fantastic Tour of New York City Will Leave You in Awe
Ever wanted to visit New York City, but haven’t had the chance yet? This great video will whet your appetite until you get a chance to visit yourself!
9 Sites and Sights in the Stunning City of Bratislava
We have listed down nine recommended places to visit in Bratislava, hoping that you get to explore and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Two Weeks of Spanish Magic: The Recommended Itinerary
If you've always wanted to see all that Spain has to offer, this itinerary will make for a true full of opportunities to make good memories!
12 Picturesque Festive Locations for the Winter Holidays
The 12 cities we list in this article have one thing in common - they are the leaders of winter holiday decorations and celebrations
Colorful Travel Photos from Around the World - 13 Pics
Can travel photos be any more colorful?
These Are 7 of the Most Beautiful Gardens in the World
These must-see gardens from all over are among the most beautiful in the world.
Not Just in Japan: Where to See Cherry Blossoms Worldwide
In this post, we list 13 of the finest places to admire cherry blossoms beyond Japan.
Few Countries Compare to the Natural Beauty Chile Offers
Chile is absolutely stunning and this video proves it.
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.
Go on an Interactive Tour of Windsor Castle!
This video is no regular video, but an interactive tour of one of the most famous castles in the world - The Windsor Castle
15 Must-Visit Places In the Incredible Continent of Africa
Africa is an incredible continent for a variety of reasons, and there's something here for you whatever you like. Here are 15 must-visit places in Africa.
This Man Ran a Marathon Every Single Day of the Year!
Meet Gary McKee, the man who ran 365 marathons in a year!
12 Stunning Spots That’ll Change the Way You See Poland
12 beautiful and eye popping places in Poland that anyone and everyone should visit, from picturesque little towns with huge and ancient castles to sky-breaking mountains with snowy peaks - there is so much beauty to enjoy.
This Amazing Park Contains the World's Largest Snow Maze!
In the resort town of Zakopane, Poland, a snow park was built with a one of a kind attraction - the largest snow maze in the world!
WATCH: Peniche Is a Must-see Place When Visiting Portugal
Peniche has long been an important fishing harbor on the Atlantic coast. Watch this gorgeous drone video of the Portuguese municipality.
Set Your Eyes on Burano, an Island Bursting with Color
Every corner of Italy has some hidden beauty. Venetian Lagoon island Burano is a gem of an island bursting with colorful houses and tranquil scenery.
These Pictures Will Make You Desperately Crave the ‘70s
Rediscover the charm of the '70s with these delightful pictures.
A City of Ice: Harbin Ice Sculpture Festival on Camera
15 photos of the annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture festival in 2020
World Travel: Mini-Maine!
A tilt-shift film, which uses special equipment to make natural movement seem fast and toy-like, giving us a ballet-like look into a part of the US you rarely see on television, shot in Portland, Maine, USA.
See the Sights of Europe With Our 20-Country Collection!
This collection of 20 countries will let you you drop in on each of them through the posts below and see what is most gorgeous about that country.
Welcome to the Ancient and Secret City of Petra...
The Lost City of Petra, as you can see from these photographs, really is an amazing place.
10 of North America’s Most Stunning National Parks
North America has so many gorgeous national parks with breathtaking views. Discover 10 of the most stunning parks this nature-rich continent has to offer.
10 Unforgettable Places In the World Full Of Color & Charm
Admire 10 astonishing and colorful tourist destinations all around the world.