24 September 2016

Mont-Saint-Michel, France





When a massive meteor is threatening to destroy the world in the movie ARMAGEDDON the American president (Stanley Anderson) gives a speech that is being broadcasted on radio and television. During the speech, listeners from all over the world are seen, including a sheep herd from Normandy, France. In the background Mont-Saint-Michel is visible.

Mont-Saint-Michel, 29 July 2016
This tidal island is located in a bay. Originally it could only be reached when the tide was low, nowadays also at high tide by means of a bridge. Free busses drive tourists back and forth from the main land. It is also possible to walk the two kilometres (1.2 miles). On top of this landmark is a medieval abbey with a statue of the archangel Michael atop the spire, the island was named after him. Legend says that around 700 he appeared to Aubert, bisshop of Avranches, ordering him to build a church on the rocky island.

In the movie, Mont-Saint-Michel is seen for only three seconds. During our visit, on a cloudy and rainy day, there were no sheep. Despite the bad weather it was very crowded. Except for the monastery, the island has nothing to offer but souvenir shops and restaurants. Mass tourism has made the island look better from a distance than up close.

Armageddon, 1:04:15
Mont-Saint-Michel, 28 July 2016
Screenshot © Touchstone Pictures

1 comment:

  1. Rubbish. You can walk round the walls visit the Cathedral and buy lovely local cheeses.

    ReplyDelete