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
Come See Mont Saint Michel as Birds Do
Enjoy this gorgeous video celebrating the unique beauty of this place.
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.
Have You Seen Such Great Vintage Photos Before?
Vintage photos always leave us with a sense of great nostalgia, and the 25 you're about to see are no exception. Here are 25 of them from times gone by.
Have You Seen These Beautiful Churches?
Churches are beautiful and peaceful places that always manage to put me in a relaxed state of mind. Perhaps it is their beauty or their design, but this amazing feeling is even more powerful at these 22 most iconic and majestic of churches.
Gorgeous, Real Life Castles!
Enjoy these beautiful castles from around the world!
Come See 15 of the Most Picturesque Piers in the World!
Priceless photos of the world's most charming piers. How many of them have you been to?
This Archival Footage of Japan from 1913-1915 Is Amazing
Take a look at this incredibly rare archival footage of Tokyo, Japan, that gives us a glimpse of life there in the early 20th century.
The Spectacular Story Behind the Creation of Lady Liberty
One of the most iconic creation in all of history, the Statue of Liberty has an interesting story behind it.
16 Stunning Award-Winning Images from Around the World
Check out the amazing winning images from the iPhone Photography Awards 2023.
Wedding Outfits Around the World Are Anything But Boring
Here is a list of 15 of the most grandiose and exotic traditional wedding outfits you will ever see
INTERACTIVE: 16 Gorgeous Places to See in Canada!
With this interactive map, you will be able to travel to some of the most beautiful places in a land already inundated with so many.
Our World is an Incredible Place – 12 Breathtaking Images
There’s something awe-inducing about things that dwarf us and make us feel small.
The Mesmerizing Sights and Sites of Slovakia
Slovakia is chalk full of impressive and gorgeous sights and sites!
The Many Forms of Wedding Dresses from All Over the World
Wedding customs are different all over the world, and these 20 countries have the most beautiful and colorful traditional wedding dresses.
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 Wonderful River Cruise Experiences We Highly Recommend
Here are the top 10 recommended destinations for river cruising worldwide.
These Maps Illustrate Little-Known Facts About America
These maps explain the United States in the most fascinating ways.
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.
These Hot Springs and Geysers Are the World's Most Furious!
Natural geysers and hot springs around the world have left mankind in awe for millennia. They're also revered for their therapeutic effects. Take a look.
Thailand Never Looked More Enchanting than In This Video...
Never have I seen a video shot with more love for its subject matter. Thailand is indeed one of the most stunning places on earth.
This Beautiful Palace Appears to Hover Over the Water
When you see this palace, you'll want to stay there at least once in your life. In addition to its exquisite architecture, it appears to float on water.
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
Travel Through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Take a tour through two famous American National parks - Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park - all from your own couch.
Come See the Architectural Wonders of Valencia
We're inviting you to a beautiful tour of one of the most interesting cities in the world, as well as one of the most beautiful.
Pack Your Bags Because You Have to Visit These 10 Islands
Get away from it all with a trip to a tropical island. Here are 10 islands that will make you want to travel. Looking at the stunning images is a vacation in itself.
25 of China's Hidden Treasures That All Visitors Must See
China is a land of beauty and mystery, filled with countless spots of natural, as well as man-made beauty.
10 Fascinating Places to Visit in Jordan
Jordan is a beautiful and exotic country. As you can imagine, it's home to many places that are worth visiting, such as the capital, Amman. Here are the top 10.
This Scottish Viking Festival Is a Fiery Sight to Behold
Once a year, an epic Viking festival takes place in the Shetland Islands (170 km north of mainland Scotland). It really is a sight to behold!
20 Gorgeous Routes to Drive On in the United States
America is a land full of open roads and Beautiful things to see. These are the top 20 trips I would definitely recommend you do.
Oh Nice, Let Me Count the Reasons I Love Thee...
An amazing coastline, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the city of Nice, a pearl of the French Riviera ...
Life in Turkey’s Istanbul is Pretty Special – 15 Pictures
Istanbul in Turkey is a city of many wonderful contrasts as you will see in these striking pictures.
12 Great Wineries for Fine Wine and Architecture
These wineries are spectacular! Their impressive facilities are without a doubt, a sight to behold.
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!
10 Stunning Abandoned Islands and Their Eerie Histories
These islands used to be someone’s home, but today, they have been reclaimed by nature. Ready to see these islands and learn their histories?
Welcome to Rick Stanley’s World of Inventive Clocks
Rick Stanley’s makes the most inventive clocks, using everything from bottles to bicycles.
12 Exciting Hollywood Inspired Holiday Destinations
A list of 12 destinations that were used as movie sets and can now be visited
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
These Abandoned Places Look So Majestic in Their Loneliness
Exploring these gems in their current state will still promise to be quite the adventure.
This Must Be the Most BEAUTIFUL Place on the Planet!
When they say Switzerland is a magical place, they're not exaggerating. Just look at this beautiful village in the Alps - Iseltwald.
9 Magical Scottish Towns We'd Love to Visit
If you are planning a trip to Scotland, here are 9 highly recommended towns to exploreץ
Cambodia Is an Asian Stunner That's Begging to Be Visited
Cambodia is a lesser-visited country in southeast Asia. It's hard to see why, because it's got a bit of everything. Here are 10 top destinations in Cambodia.
Is This the Most Beautiful Place in Italy? We Think So!
Take a look at two breathtaking UNESCO sites in Tivoli, Italy: Hadrian's Villa and the Villa d'Este.
Traveling to Two Gorgeous Dutch Cities...
Haarlem and Delft in the Netherlands are places where history and beauty come together...
These Pictures Will Make You Desperately Crave the ‘70s
Rediscover the charm of the '70s with these delightful pictures.
These Murals Change the Way People Look at Hospitals
Italian artist Silvio Irilli adds color to hospitals with his delightful murals.
10 Awesome Travel Destinations in England’s Lake District
Not everyone is familiar with England's beautiful Lake District, that's why we've gathered for you the 10 most treasured destination on site!
How I'd Love to Visit the Remarkable Mount Fuji...
Get to know the fantastic visuals and the rich history of this astounding mountain.