Mont Saint Michel is a 90 metre high plug of granite.
Originally called Mont Tombe, this commune has an interesting origin story. After having a vision of the archangel St. Michael, Saint-Aubert, Bishop of Avranches, created Mont Saint Michel in 708. He decided to build an oratory in honour of the divine persona after this third and final vision.
Benedictine monks, under the watchful eyes of Richard I (r. 942-996 CE), Duke of Normandy, managed their monastery well, stimulating Mont-Saint-Michel's growth as a major center of pilgrimage and also as a place of commerce.
During the Hundred Years War (1337-1453 CE) between England and France, the English besieged and blockaded Mont-Saint-Michel three times. The French had built strong walls in the 13th century CE that would enable it to withstand a 30-year long siege by the English.
These days over 3 million people visit the Mont-Saint-Michel each year!