Vire

Vire may refer to several related places in Normandy, France. The Vire River is a northwestern France watercourse that runs through the Normandy region, shaping the landscape of the surrounding bocage and valley. It has historically supported local mills, agriculture, and rural transport as it flows toward the coast.

The town of Vire sits on the river in the Calvados department. It developed as a market town in the medieval period and remains a local hub for services and commerce in the surrounding rural area. Its historic center preserves elements from the medieval and early modern eras, reflecting its long-standing role in the region.

In 2016, Vire and several neighboring communes were merged to form the new commune of Vire Normandie. This reorganization aimed to streamline local administration while preserving the town’s role as the principal urban center in the area.

The Vire area, including the river valley, is characterized by green landscapes, agriculture, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling along river routes. The name Vire also appears in various place names and can be found as a surname in the region.