legacy. The opening of the book introduces readers to the spiritual roots of Mont Saint-Michel, recounting the foundational legend of Saint Aubert, who, inspired by a vision of the archangel Michael, constructed a small church on the mount in the early 8th century. It paints a vivid picture of the geography of Mont Saint-Michel, detailing its isolation and significance in the struggles between France and England throughout history. Notable events, such as miraculous occurrences and the establishment of pilgrimages, are noted, setting the stage for an exploration of the abbey's transformation into a revered site for both religious devotion and national pride. (This is an automatically generated summary.)