The top of the 12th c. keep (donjon >) has been demolished. The < town hall occupies the old 17th century château. This belonged to the owners of the château in Châteaudun and then to two illustrious sailors: the Marquis of Château-Renault under Louis XIV and, under Louis XVI, the Count of Estaing who died under the guillotine in 1793.

A 14th century < gate, surmounted by a hoarding (to enable the defenders to protect the entrance) leads onto the terraces shaded by lime trees, from where there is an attractive view over the town.

Château-Renault was founded in 1066 by Renault, son of Geoffroi de Château-Gontier (Gonthier), on a tongue of land between the River Brenne and the River Gault at the point where they meet.

< The town has now extended well beyond its original boundaries. The main street runs in a large curve down to the river bank. Chemical and electronics industries have replaced the traditional activity of leather working.

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