Tour Gabriel, Medieval defense tower at Mont-Saint-Michel, France
The Gabriel Tower is a solid stone fortification on Mont-Saint-Michel featuring Gothic elements and multiple observation points distributed along the ramparts. The structure reveals how medieval defense was engineered through strategic positioning and architectural design.
The tower was constructed during the Hundred Years War between France and England to protect the island against invasion. Its construction was part of a broader fortification effort that made Mont-Saint-Michel into a stronghold difficult to attack.
The tower displays gargoyles that reveal how medieval craftsmen combined functional drainage with artistic skill, creating stone creatures that blend purpose and imagination.
Access comes through the rampart walks on Mont-Saint-Michel, reachable from the main entrance area. Early morning visits work best when fewer people are present and views from the observation points are easier to enjoy.
From the tower, you see the bay's extreme tidal swings where water levels shift by roughly 15 meters between low and high tide. This natural phenomenon explains why the island was historically so difficult to reach.
Location: Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Part of: Ramparts of Mont Saint-Michel
GPS coordinates: 48.63499,-1.51072
Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:00
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Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay
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Ramparts of Mont Saint-Michel
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Porte du Roy
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Porte du Boulevard
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Königsturm
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Hôtel Saint-Pierre
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Maison de l'Artichaut
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Turm Denis
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Turm der Arkade
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Ancien hôtel de la Licorne
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Hôtellerie de la Sirène
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Ancien presbytère
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Ancienne auberge Saint-Pierre
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Maison Verte
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Chapelle Saint-Sébastien
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Hôtel principal des établissements Poulard
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Musée de la Mer et de l'Ecologie
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Ancienne hôtellerie de l'escu de Bretaigne
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Immeubles et terrains de l'entrée (Le Mont-Saint-Michel)
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Hôtel Poulard
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Deux réservoirs d'eau
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Propriété de l'Hermitage
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Jardins Sainte-Catherine
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Maison Piquerel
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Maison Ponceau et Eudes (Le Mont-Saint-Michel)
85 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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