The origins of Mont St. Michel can be traced back to a legend that has the archangel Michael appearing in a series of dreams to Aubert, Bishop of Avranches. Saint Michael implores Aubert to build a church on what was then a barren rock called Mont Tombe. The original church structure was completed in 1144. Other buildings were added in the 13th century to accommodate monks and pilgrims who flocked to the abbey. The pilgrimage never stopped, even when the abbey was in English hands during the Hundred Year's War. The Monks of Mont St. Michel were revered for their copying skills before the printing press was widely in use. (image: Inside the abbey complex at Mont St. Michel)