Mont-Saint-Michel Conservation – Stone, Sediment & Flow

Preserving a tidal mount demands integration of marine processes and medieval fabric care.

1. Diagnostic Toolkit

• 3D laser scanning of buttresses & spire for deformation baselines.
• Salt crystallization sampling on lower ramparts; lab analysis informs cleaning intervals.

2. Stone & Mortar Strategy

3. Cloister Garden Microclimate

Plant selection controlled to avoid root moisture accumulation against arcade bases; humidity sensors ensure fungal risk stays low.

4. Hydraulic Dam Impact

Periodic water releases reduce sedimentation, reasserting insular appearance—visual authenticity couples with ecological goals.

5. Visitor Flow Modeling

Heatmaps of staircase occupancy trigger signage repositioning; objective: lower abrasion on vulnerable stair nosings & distribute load.

6. Challenges Ahead

• Climate variability: intense rain events accelerate wash on mortar.
• Rising sea-level scenario planning needed for long-term access infrastructure adaptation.

7. Sustainability Synergies

• LED interior lighting reduces heat load & insect attraction.
• Digital ticket staggering smooths midday surge.

Bottom Line

Data-guided, minimally invasive approaches keep the mount authentic while accommodating global visitation pressure.