It was the ‘Compagnie des polders de l’Ouest’ that was granted by Napoleon III in 1865 the concession to develop the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel for agricultural purposes. The thirteen centuries of history and the island character of Mont-Saint-Michel constitute a constant challenge in terms of conservation and restoration. The listing as a Historic Monument in the 19th century initiated a series of restorations and constructions, notably of the bell tower, the spire, and the statue of St. Michael.