Right out of a Lord of the Rings movie... Mont-Saint-Michel is a tidal island and mainland commune located in Normandy, France, about one kilometer off the northwestern coast near the mouth of the Couesnon River. It is famous for its stunning granite island topped by a medieval Benedictine abbey and a small village surrounded by defensive walls. Historical and Cultural Significance Mont-Saint-Michel has a rich history dating back to 708 when the archangel Michael is said to have appeared to Saint Aubert, bishop of Avranches, instructing him to build a church on the rocky islet. The island became a major Christian pilgrimage center from the 8th century onward. The abbey was constructed mainly between the 11th and 16th centuries, showcasing remarkable Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Notably, the abbey was fortified and successfully resisted English sieges during the Hundred Years' War. Later, it was used as a prison during the Ancien Régime and up to the 19th century before being restored as a historic monument. Mont-Saint-Michel was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 due to its unique blend of natural features and historic architecture, its significance as a medieval Christian pilgrimage site, and its technical and artistic accomplishments. Geography and Environment The island covers about 7 hectares (17 acres) surrounded by vast tidal sandbanks that vary greatly with tides measuring about 14 meters difference between high and low water. The island loses its insular character at low tide but regains it at high tide, with the surrounding bay known for powerful tidal currents. Historically, a causeway built in 1879 connected the island to the mainland, which led to sedimentation issues and threatened the island's insular status. Recent restoration efforts included the removal of the causeway, construction of a hydraulic dam on the Couesnon River, and a new footbridge to allow tidal waters to flow freely and restore Mont-Saint-Michel's island character. Architectural Highlights The abbey is an architectural marvel combining Romanesque and Gothic styles, built on a granite outcrop. The church has crypts dating back to pre-Romanesque times, a Romanesque nave, and a flamboyant Gothic choir rebuilt after war-related damage. The abbey's complex structural system allowed it to be built on the confined mount, and the surrounding village features medieval streets, fortified walls, and buildings now serving as shops, museums, and accommodations. Tourism and Access Mont-Saint-Michel attracts over three million visitors annually, making it one of France's most popular tourist attractions outside Paris. Visitors can explore the abbey, narrow village streets, and panoramic views of the bay. To protect the site, car parks have been moved to the mainland about 2.5 km away, with shuttle buses or walking access available to the island. Visitors also enjoy the unique tidal environment and can participate in guided sandbank walks due to dangerous quicksands in the bay. The site is known for its atmospheric evening illuminations and historical ambiance. Mont-Saint-Michel stands as a striking fusion of natural beauty, medieval architecture, and historical significance, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. If you are planning a visit or want to know more about its history or architecture, Mont-Saint-Michel offers a rich blend of culture, pilgrimage heritage, and dramatic natural landscapes.
In 1983, local leaders in Greene County, Alabama collaborated on the Crossroads of America industrial park, a significant project where Black and white leaders worked together to boost economic development and community cohesion. This was seen as a step toward racial harmony by addressing economic disparities and fostering joint decision-making and set a precedent for cooperative efforts in the county. (So, what has happened since then?) Examples of inexpensive properties in or near Greene County...
The Dark Hedges is a famous avenue of beech trees in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, near Ballymoney. It's renowned for its atmospheric, tunnel-like appearance created by the intertwining branches of the trees, and has been featured as the "King's Road" in the popular TV series Game of Thrones.
1 Timothy 6: 17-21 Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. Enséñales a los ricos de este mundo que no sean orgullosos ni que confíen en su dinero, el cual es tan inestable. Deberían depositar su confianza en Dios, quien nos da en abundancia todo lo que necesitamos para que lo disfrutemos. Diles que usen su dinero para hacer el bien. Deberían ser ricos en buenas acciones, generosos con los que pasan necesidad y estar siempre dispuestos a compartir con otros. Proverbs 19:17a If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord... Si ayudas al pobre, le prestas al Señor...