Donjon de Vire


The Donjon de Vire is a ruined building situated in the commune of Vire in the Calvados département of France. The keep is the main vestige of an 11th-century castle.

Location

The keep is situated in the centre of the town of Vire.

Description

The keep stands on a rock at the end of a promontory overlooking the Vire river. It was built in 1123 by Henry I of Beauclerc. In 1630, it was demolished by order of Cardinal Richelieu. It had a storeroom on the ground floor and two floors for the accommodation of the commander and his family. The third floor accommodated troops and there was also a fourth floor. The present remains are one of the facades and buttresses.

History

The structure was classified as a monument historique on 10 February 1913. It is the property of the commune.