Municipal Museum of Vire

The Municipal Museum of Vire offers a diverse collection of objects that allow visitors to explore a wide range of themes. These include archaeology, decorative arts, fine arts, ethnography, industry, gastronomy, textiles, botany, and the history of the city and Normandy in general. This broad spectrum of exhibits provides a comprehensive insight into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

Historical Background of the Municipal Museum of Vire

The Municipal Museum of Vire has a rich history that dates back to 1866 when it was first inaugurated. Initially, it was housed in a few rooms in the town hall. However, the museum was destroyed during the bombings of June 1944. Despite this setback, the museum was gradually rebuilt and in 1956, it moved to its current location on the first floor of the 18th-century Hôtel-Dieu, which was purchased by the city from the Augustinian community.

Exploring the City's Evolution at the Municipal Museum of Vire

The ground floor of the Municipal Museum of Vire offers visitors a fascinating journey through the city's evolution. Starting from the first settlement during Prehistory, the exhibits take you through the Gallo-Roman villa, medieval fortifications, developments of the Modern Era and the Belle Époque, and the destruction and reconstruction in the 20th century. The journey concludes with the present-day commune, providing a comprehensive overview of the city's rich history.