Note: The town is located on rising ground between the Loire River and its tributary the Thouet, two miles above their confluence. The town occupies an island in the Loire and has spread to the right bank. It was the seat of the medieaval region of Saumurois. It grew up around a monastery and fort, built in the 10th century by the counts of Blois. It is noted as the site of the château of the dukes of Anjou, dating to the 14th century and strengthened with ramparts in the 16th century. The town today is known for a cavalry school and wines.