France - Brittany Day 03 - Mont Saint-Michel

 Since the 8th century, the presence of the Catholic church has been present here and before that it was an important defensive position. The cathedral/monastery/convent dominates the top part of the little island.

 The front gate is very imposing and illustrates the fact it was a defensive island first.

 There are many, many, many tourist shops as you make your way to the top. Look for a stairway once you go past the second gate and you will get this view. Not only that but...

 ...you will be able to walk the ramparts on your way to the top, free of tourist shops and crowds. There is still a few shops and restaurants but it is a better view.

 A class of students are attempting to walk around the island at low tide.

 There are steep parts so this island is not recommended for those who have trouble with stairs.

 These are the first flight of stairs at the base of the cathedral.

 The buildings adjoining and connected to the cathedral are massive.

 The inside is sparse but impressive.

 These gardens are a nice bit of tranquility amongst the stone.

 Here is the main eating hall.

 This is a meeting room for members of nobility and clergy.

 There was randomly assorted decorative tile here and there.

 This wheel helped to lift supplies to the cathedral and was human powered. It was the only way up or down when it was a prison during the French Revolution.

 Here is another of the great halls.

When we decended the cathedral stairs, this friendly cat was waiting for us.