Donjon de Vire

The Donjon de Vire (Vire Keep) 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.