Tour Boucle, Medieval tower in Le Mont-Saint-Michel, France
Tour Boucle is a stone defensive tower set within the ramparts of Mont-Saint-Michel with thick walls and firing positions built into its structure. It integrates into the broader fortification system that protected the hilltop settlement.
The tower was built in the 17th century under King Louis XIV to strengthen the fortifications of Mont-Saint-Michel. Its construction followed the military design standards of that era to enhance the island's defensive capability.
The tower forms part of the medieval defensive ring that still shapes how visitors and residents experience the village today.
The tower is visible and accessible from the public pathways along the ramparts as visitors explore the fortification. You can best understand its position and function by walking through different areas of the village.
From this vantage point, defenders could watch both the bay and the village approaches at the same time, making it strategically valuable. This dual surveillance function was essential for keeping the entire settlement secure.
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