Mont Saint-Michel - Normandy, France - Gargoyles and Chimeras on Waymarking.com

If you want to get a close up view of these beautiful gargoyles you will need to do a bit of climbing. They are located at the peak of the Benedictine Abbey that surmounts the peak of Mont Saint-Michel. The climb begins as soon as you enter into the walls of this Medieval walled village. At first a gentle walk along old narrow cobblestone streets then the steps begin. About 300 steps later you will be standing in a courtyard looking up at the details of the peak of the Benedictine Abbey, including 16 gargoyles. The octagonal spire has 8 gargoyles on each of two levels.

The tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most iconic and visited places in France. It's narrow streets host over 3 million visitors a year. A 0.5 km causeway connects the island to the mainland. It can be reached by using a free shuttle bus which operated continuously during daylight hours. A bridge connecting the island to the mainland is under construction.

The 247 acre island rises 301 feet above the surrounding bay. It has been a strategic fortified outpost since ancient times. The 8th century Gothic-style Benedictine monastery dedicated to of Archangel Saint Michael occupies the upper reached of the island and can be reached by climbing approximately 300 steps. A small village is contained with the fortified walls at the base of the abbey.

In 933 William I, Duke of Normandy, annexed the Cotentin Peninsula, making the Mont part of Normandy. In 1067, the monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel supported William of Normandy's claim to the throne of England. As a result it was given properties and grounds on the English side of the Channel. During the Hundred Years' War, the fortified island successfully resisted repeated assaults English assaults on the island.

Mont Saint-Michel and the surrounding area are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Water spout is used: yes Condition: Lightly Weathered

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